Sr Mgr, Editorial & Media Relations

Requisition Number: S5098P

Home Org Name: University Mkt & Strategic Comm O&M

Division Name: Communications and Marketing

Job Class Code: OC12

Appointment Status: Full-time

Limited Term: No

Job Summary

This position will be located on the campus at Auburn University.

Auburn University’s Office of Communication and Marketing is seeking a qualified candidates for the position of Senior Manager of Editorial and Media Relations. This position supervises a group of writers and media relations staff in the Office of Communications and Marketing to shape and deliver Auburn University’s messaging across internal and external platforms. Reporting to the Assistant Vice President of Communications, this role oversees editorial strategy, develops content guidelines, and manages news and media outreach to ensure consistent, high-quality storytelling that advances the university’s reputation, impact, and vision.

Essential Functions

• Provides oversight of a team of writers, editors, and media relations staff to shape the content strategy and ensure consistent messaging that aligns with the university’s brand identity.
• Manages and upholds story deadlines and content priorities to ensure timely, exemplary storytelling.
• Collaborates with web and digital teams to optimize online story presentation while also serving on university committees and working groups related to storytelling and media relations.
• Fosters collaboration across colleges and units to develop and implement a comprehensive content strategy that elevates the university’s visibility, impact, and reputation.
• Writes, edits, and manages high-impact stories for internal audiences (faculty, staff, students) and external stakeholders (alumni, donors, media, and the public).
• Provides content recommendations for internal and external publications and collaborates with OCM senior leadership to align communications with marketing and institutional priorities.
• Provides consultation and training to implement editorial guidelines and best practices to ensure consistency across campus communications while managing training across campus for effective storytelling and media pitching.
• Oversees proactive pitches to external media to promote Auburn’s areas of impact while managing and guiding relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets.
• Defines metrics and analytics to make informed decisions on types of stories told within OCM.
• Identifies opportunities to promote university achievements, initiatives, and faculty research.

Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We’re Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree, no specific discipline, AND 6 years of experience in writing, communications, media relations or related fields. Experience leading high-performing creative teams within a university or similar complex environment is desired.

Minimum Skills and Abilities

Proven track record of managing writers, editors, media relations, and communications professionals.

Skilled in content strategy development, including planning, messaging, and audience targeting.

Proven ability to exercise emotional intelligence, discretion, and sound judgment in managing sensitive matters and relationships.

Proficiency with media monitoring software, analytics tools, and AP Style.

Deep understanding of journalism, communications, public relations, and media relations practices.

Ability to lead, develop, and challenge individuals.

Desired Qualifications

Experience leading high-performing creative teams within a university or similar complex environment is desired.

Salary Range: $70,880 – $127,590

Job Category: Communications/Public Relations/Marketing

City position is located in

Auburn

State position is located

Alabama

Closing Date: 02/27/2026

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement

It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit their website to learn more.

Special Instructions to Applicants

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