This is a remote / work from home opportunity. Associate must live & work within the continental US.
SUMMARY
The Public Relations (PR) and External Communications Specialist supports the development and execution of external communications strategies that elevate and protect the organization’s reputation. This role works closely with their supervisor and other team members to craft compelling narratives, manage media relations and implement tactics that engage external audiences, stakeholders and the broader community. By leveraging proactive storytelling, media outreach and/or issues and crisis management tactics, this role will play a key part in promoting the organization’s values, mission and reputation.
The Specialist role may support one or several External Communications teams including reputation management, issues and crisis, market growth, B2B, managed care or other.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Writes and edits a variety of external communications materials such as press releases, media statements, briefing documents, speeches, articles, and website content that align with the Ministry’s brand and strategic goals.
Manages and supports PR campaigns by collaborating with internal stakeholders to identify communication opportunities, objectives, and key messages. Proactively seeks out opportunities for positive media coverage and organizational storytelling.
Provides project management on PR and external communications projects, ensuring all materials are developed on schedule and ready for distribution to key external audiences.
Develops content for a range of external communications channels, including media outlets, blogs, social media, public speaking engagements, and corporate communications materials.
Supports media relations efforts by building relationships with journalists, bloggers, and influencers. Manages press inquiries and tracks media coverage to ensure consistent and accurate messaging.
Contributes to crisis communications strategies and tactics as needed, providing quick and effective responses to media inquiries and ensuring accurate information is shared with external audiences.
Works with the PR Manager to execute strategic communication plans for major organizational initiatives, events, and leadership announcements, ensuring messages are delivered effectively to key stakeholders.
Serves as a subject matter expert for external communication platforms, such as the company website, social media, media outreach, and public speaking opportunities.
Ensures all external communications align with brand guidelines, corporate voice, and visual standards to maintain a consistent and cohesive public presence.
Supports the production of additional external communications materials as needed, including presentations, brochures, event collateral, and video content. Manages vendor relationships where applicable.
Supports leadership meetings and external events, providing communication strategies and content to ensure successful execution and media coverage.
This document is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as required by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.
EMPLOYMENT QUALIFICATIONS
Licensing/Certification
Accreditation of Public Relations (APR) (preferred)
Education
Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or related field (required)
Master’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, or related field (preferred)
Work Experience
Minimum 1 year of experience in Public Relations, External Communications, Media Relations, or related field (required)
Experience with external communication strategies, media outreach and storytelling (preferred)
Working Conditions
Periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads may occur.
Long-distance or air travel as needed- not to exceed 10% travel.
General office environment.
May have periods of constant interruptions.
May require occasional travel for media events, conferences or community outreach initiatives
Skills
Communications
Data Analysis
Ability to Work Independently
Microsoft Office
Associate Communications
Associate Engagement
Attention to detail
Collaboration
Critical thinking
Cross Functional Collaboration
Teamwork
Active listening
Relationship building
Creative thinking
Creative Writing
Editing
Time Management
Managing multiple projects
Many of our opportunities reward* your hard work with:Comprehensive, affordable medical, dental and vision plans
Prescription drug coverage
Flexible spending accounts
Life insurance w/AD&D
Employer contributions to retirement savings plan when eligible
Paid time off
Educational Assistance
And much more
*Benefits offerings vary according to employment status
All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you'd like to view a copy of the affirmative action plan or policy statement for Mercy Health – Youngstown, Ohio or Bon Secours – Franklin, Virginia; Petersburg, Virginia; and Emporia, Virginia, which are Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employers, please email recruitment@mercy.com. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact The Talent Acquisition Team at recruitment@mercy.com