Communication Coordinator - Public Relations and Communication

Primary Responsibility

The Lipscomb University communications coordinator will assist in the creation of content for publications, web, electronic communications and campaign-related activities; development and implementation of public relations and media communication plans/strategies with attention to advancement and enrollment as a primary focus area; and implementation of public relations campaigns with the goal of elevating the university's image internally and with the public. The candidate must also have proven ability to effectively communicate both in written and oral formats and to collaborate with partners across the organization and media to meet office and institutional goals. This position also assists with other writing areas within the Office of Public Relations & Communications, as needed.

Education: Bachelor's Degree

Experience: 3 or more years, preferred

Additional Information: Is part of the Office of Public Relations & Communications team and reports to the vice president for communication and marketing

Experience Required for the Position:

Previous work experience within a public relations or publication environment daily or experience in news and information gathering/dissemination for print/electronic media or other similar experience is preferred. Public relations experience in a nonprofit or higher education setting is a plus. Must submit five writing samples (press releases, articles and non-media writing).

Knowledge/Skills

• Knowledge of and proficiency with applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other software as needed
• Knowledge of or ability to learn content management software
• Proven ability to manage projects and adhere to set project goals
• Excellent written and oral communication and presentation skills
• Ability to recognize and disseminate news to targeted media/audiences
• Ability to produce results by leveraging resources, building relationships, and by being adaptable and flexible to change
• Ability to multitask and to take on additional responsibilities as needed
• Ability to stay up-to-date and learn new trends in the industry
• Ability to work flexible hours at times
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Familiarity in advertising/marketing; magazine and publication production; knowledge of news media/contacts
• Proficiency with AI content tools.
• Comfortable in shifting quickly between strategic and tactical modes of work
• Project management, relationship management, collaboration and communication skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality as well as recognize when to protect confidential information
• Other duties as assigned

Description of Tasks Performed

• Create and deliver press releases, media relations content, web content, publications content and other content that is on message.
• Develop specific content for advancement in connection to the capital campaign
• Identify, develop and execute communications strategy for various internal clients and institutional goals with a particular focus on advancement and enrollment
• Assist in development of electronic newsletters for various clients on campus.
• Demonstrate an ability to successfully pitch stories to the media as well as develop and maintain relationships with media representatives local, national and discipline-specific publications
• Research media coverage and industry trends
• Prepare briefing materials
• Assist in crisis or strategic information flow when needed
• Serve as copy editor/proofreader as needed
• Build, maintain and market availability of faculty subject matter experts
• Assist in the development of public relations plans/strategies
• Provide support for overall goals of the office and work within a tight team environment
• Provide writing support for web, social media and other needs of the office as needed
• Other duties as assigned

Bachelors (preferred)

3 years: Previous working experience within a public relations or publication environment daily or experience in news gathering/dissemination for print/electronic media or other similar experience is preferred. Public relations experience in a nonprofit or higher education setting is a plus. Must submit five writing samples (press releases, articles and non-media writing). (required)