Public Relations Director

The Reading League, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization created in 2016 with a mission to advance the awareness, understanding, and use of evidence-based reading instruction. The Reading League (TRL), based in Syracuse, New York, focuses on improving literacy outcomes for ALL students. By using the body of knowledge known as the SoR–which culminates over 50 years of research, we can improve literacy instruction and outcomes. We believe that all students deserve to learn to read and that all teachers can teach them.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Public Relations Director is responsible for designing and executing public and media relations for The Reading League as well as developing and implementing a broad range of communications, Public Relations, governmental relations and media relations in support of TRL’s mission, vision, and values.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Plan, execute, and evaluate communication initiatives, projects, and platforms that strategically align with TRL’s mission, vision, and values
• Together with the COO and senior management team, develop, implement, and execute a PR strategy to increase brand awareness and clarify brand experience
• Receive and respond to incoming media inquiries including requests for general information, photos, and other assistance from members of the media and public
• Seek opportunities for senior management to serve on panels, perform as keynote speakers, appear on various community informational programs, etc.
• Develop media contacts, both locally and nationally, in print, television, radio, and other industry and community influencers integral to TRL’s mission
• Serve as the organizational spokesperson
• Facilitate media interviews with appropriate staff persons and prepare appropriate materials
• Work collaboratively with the Marketing Director to ensure consistency of digital and press outreach materials
• Brainstorm, pitch, and secure proactive media opportunities, op-ed placements, influencer meetings, and events through traditional and digital channels
• Define and implement both internally and externally the communication strategy for TRL to support its mission
• Serve as the primary liaison with government officials, including making recommendations to engage lobbying support when needed
• Develop, implement, and manage a robust media and Public Relations plan to raise our profile by crafting compelling press materials, media kits, and pitches that resonate with target audiences and highlight TRL’s impact
• Develop and maintain TRL organizational communications calendar to prioritize and streamline the development of communication articles
• Drive content creation across print and digital with an emphasis on elevating stories and experiences of TRL
• Provide oversight on communication platforms to ensure consistent branding and messaging
• Track and analyze the effectiveness of PR campaigns through data-driven metrics
• Work collaboratively with the Data Analyst to utilize data insights to optimize and refine communication strategies
• Identify trends, monitor current events and influencers to anticipate opportunities to engage in and/or lead the national conversation on evidence aligned reading instruction.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, communications, or a related field required
• Minimum of 5 years experience in Public Relations or communications field preferred
• Proven track record of developing and executing successful PR campaigns
• Strong media relations skills and an extensive network of media contacts
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to anticipate and manage potential issues
• Strong management skills
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills and the ability to effectively communicate and tailor messages to different audiences

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds; reasonable accommodations can be made if necessary
• Work is performed in a typical office setting
• Some occasional nights and weekends

At The Reading League, we believe that our work is most impactful when led by a team that represents diverse cultural backgrounds. We welcome all qualified individuals to apply and especially invite applications from those who would add to the diversity of our team.

The Reading League provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. It prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Candidates should include a cover letter with their resume.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $90,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person