Media and Public Relations Specialist

Center for Christian Virtue (CCV)’s Media and Public Relations Specialist will help shape and maintain the organization's public image, ensuring our message resonates with a broad audience, including faith communities, policymakers, and the general public. The ideal candidate will be a skilled communicator with experience in media relations, public relations, and strategic messaging.

Reports to:                 Communications Director

Hours:                        Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Compensation:          Full-time, Salaried/Exempt; Commensurate with experience

Location:                    Columbus, Ohio

Benefits:                     PTO (Paid Time Off), 10 Paid Holidays, Monthly Cell phone allotment, mileage, Health Insurance (CCV covers 75% of premium), 3% Match on Retirement Plan available after 1 year

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with journalists, reporters, and media outlets that align with our values. Act as the primary contact for media inquiries and facilitate interviews, press conferences, and statements.
• In partnership with the Communications Director, craft and implement a comprehensive media strategy that advances the organization's mission, goals, and key messages. Ensure alignment with the organization's mission and objectives.
• Write compelling press releases, op-eds, talking points, and media kits that effectively communicate key messages to various audiences.
• Assist in managing media inquiries during crises, providing clear, accurate, and timely information in line with the organization's values.
• Prepare leadership for media interviews and speaking engagements, ensuring they are well-prepared to articulate the organization’s position on key issues.
• In partnership with the Communications Director, protect and promote the organization’s reputation and brand identity. Ensure consistency of messaging across all platforms and communication channels.
• Track media coverage, measure the effectiveness of public relations campaigns, and provide regular reports on media activity, public sentiment, and trends.
• Other duties as assigned to help drive our vision, fulfill our mission, and abide by our organization’s values.

Job Qualifications & Requirements

Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience in media relations, public relations, or a communications role, ideally within a non-profit or faith-based organization. Experience in public policy is a plus.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

• Proactive, self-starter with ability to think strategically and develop effective, innovative messaging.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment with proven ability to build and maintain media relationships.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Willing to travel for and work overtime at events and meetings from time to time.

Character and Spiritual

• Mature Christian, currently attending or pursuing attendance in a local church.
• Agreement with and adherence to CCV’s Statement of Faith and Code of Conduct.
• Demonstrated commitment to CCV’s mission and position on Core Issues.
• Ability to work discreetly with confidential information.
• Trustworthy, responsible, tactful, diplomatic, and focused on building consensus rather than emphasizing differences.
• Maintain a high level of professionalism focused on client/constituent relationships.