Media Relations Manager jobs in Saint Louis, MO

The Media Relations Specialist works within the Public Information Office to provide information to the media, both locally and nationally, and support the day-to-day operations of the Public Information Office.  The position is assigned a Department cell phone and as such is subject to recall to duty.  

Duty hours: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, but considerable flexibility is required to meet Department needs.  

Position will remain open until filled.

Per the Department's Collective Bargaining Agreement, newly hired employees who do not possess corresponding experience will start at the base starting pay listed in this posting.

• Possess a positive outlook of the Department, its leaders, and its members.
• Develop positive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders and members of the local and national media. 
• Possess the ability to handle controversial and confidential issues and situations where considerable tact and discretion are required.
• Possess a willingness to proactively promote the Department and its operations.
• Have the ability to work under intense pressure and scrutiny.
• Possess sound, independent judgement in the release of instantaneous information where errors could result in significant consequence to the image of the Department. 
• Review daily police activities and related information to maintain a current overview of Departmental operations and noteworthy developments.
• Be in constant contact with police precincts, bureaus and units, administrative staff and outside sources to obtain additional information and follow-up on significant occurrences.
• Write and distribute news releases to the media.
• Review local and national news to remain aware of current events.
• Confer with the Chief of Police and other Department commanders regarding policy interpretations and official statements.
• Initiate corrective action to ensure erroneous information is retracted, amended, or corrected. 
• Compose extensive writing assignments, in addition to media releases, including the bi-weekly Information Digest, Department promotional material and any other special assignments as needed.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Superior, verbal, written and interpersonal skills. 
• Working knowledge of social media. 
• Ability to represent the Department in a positive manner while demonstrating sensitivity, sound judgement, and confidentiality. 
• Ability to communicate tactfully and courteously with the public.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the general public.
• Ability to make decisions based on established procedures and policies and using some independent judgment.
• Ability to work independently under stressful conditions.

Training and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism, communications, marketing, or computer science related discipline and two years of job-related experience is preferred, including some experience with local government. Candidates with an equivalent combination of training, education and experience will be considered.

Special Requirements:

• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Work may include a call back to duty.