Job Details: Sr. Media Specialist

Company: Cedars-Sinai Health System – Join the largest non-profit hospital in the western US!

Description: Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, English or similar required.
Description:
Summary of Job Duties
Under the direction of the Manager, Media Relations this individual will develop and carry out media plans to promote Cedars-Sinai Health System's clinical and research expertise. Responsibilities will include responding to media inquiries, writing and distributing news releases, developing and managing strong relationships with national reporters, coordinating media training programs, and tracking and reporting media results. Working closely with leaders in various clinical and research areas, this individual will proactively identify newsworthy medical and research stories and place Cedars-Sinai spokespeople in national and local media. Duties include soliciting media coverage, providing editorial and writing assistance to the department, developing and overseeing special projects, representing the organization as a spokesperson, if needed, and providing communications assistance during emergency situations. Must be able to serve as a trusted media relations advisor to physicians and organizational leaders, and to maintain respectful, professional conduct when interacting with patients and media. While the work schedule is 40 hours per week, must be available seven days a week, 24 hours a day, to provide media and crisis support in urgent situations, if needed.

Educational/Experience Requirements
Must possess exceptional writing and editing skills and excellent verbal communications skills. Some knowledge of health care or medical issues is required. A minimum of five years of work experience in Journalism, Public Relations, Media Relations, Corporate Communications, or related field. Prefer experience in a hospital setting or at a complex, matrix organization such as a university. Must demonstrate the ability to write clear, engaging, accurate and well-structured news releases. Must be able to demonstrate success at identifying newsworthy stories and facilitating placement of expert spokespeople in the press. Must be able to cultivate successful working relationships with Cedars-Sinai experts and with journalists, to stay at the forefront of assigned areas. Must have the ability and desire to work in a deadline driven environment and be able to multi-task at a high level.

Posting Date: Jan 2 08