Overview
Media Relations Specialist
Burness, a social change communications firm, is seeking an experienced media relations specialist who excels at: writing press releases, op-eds, blogs and other short-form writing; pitching stories; developing and maintaining relationships with journalists and following news trends. The ideal candidate is a self-starter with seven or more years of professional experience in communications, preferably at a non-profit or small foundation or in a communications office on Capitol Hill. Candidates with extensive relationships with reporters and producers are strongly preferred. Fluency in Spanish is desired.
You are a good fit for this position if you can:
Write clearly and concisely
Pitch print and broadcast reporters, podcasts and blogs
Show you have maintained strong relationships with reporters and producers over time
Handle logistics for major media and stakeholder events
Work as part of a team on major research releases, including managing a pitch team
Develop pro-active ideas to help clients create news
Juggle multiple projects and clients simultaneously
Turn around rapid response assignments in a timely manner
Burness works extensively with the country’s leading health foundations, nonprofits and academic institutions. Since our founding more than 30 years ago, we’ve worked with more than 700 nonprofits in the US and around the world. Find out more about us at burness.com.
We offer excellent benefits, competitive salary, and a collegial work environment.
About Burness
At Burness, veteran communications, media and policy experts work with digital strategists, designers, writers and producers to create and execute communication strategies that move issues and elevate organizations.
From messaging, branding and research translation to advocacy and public engagement campaigns, we approach our work holistically. We build diverse teams to ensure we engage the right audiences with the right messages at the right time and place, whether that’s through the news, an event, a face-to-face meeting, a digital advertisement or a Facebook video.
Whether from our Nairobi, Bethesda or additional global offices, we’re committed to supporting the changemakers of the world, and that starts within our own walls. All Burnessers are valued and respected for their particular talents and contributions, welcomed into the process of company decision-making and supported in their personal and professional dreams.