Responsibilities shifted dramatically when the unit completely restructured due to employee departures. The Media Relations Manager serves as the Office of Communications’ link between the Department, and the media and public. This position leads the Department in publicizing its efforts to protect, enhance and restore the State’s natural resources, while working to monitor and strategically thwart or respond to negative/critical news. The Media Relations Manager creates, edits and distributes materials regarding information, issues and events relevant to the Department of Natural Resources.
The Media Relations Manager supervises and delegates responsibilities to the Communications Assistant and interns, and oversees the Social Media Manager. This person also assumes the duties of the Senior Communications Manager and/or Director in the event of their absences. Assumes all media relations responsibilities, represents the agency publicly, and provides guidance and support to the DNR secretary, sister agencies and the governor.
DNR has a high volume of media contact, a diverse number of high profile issues, and 24/7 on-call requirements. Works continuously behind the scenes, and often extended hours, to track, manage and influence media portrayals of the department. Provides strategic direction to staff and DNR leadership regarding public communication and outreach, and media requests. Advises Office of Communications staff on what information should be publicized, and the most efficient/effective promotional tools to target the appropriate audiences. With this, identifies and creates engaging content for social media.
Acts as public face for DNR by scripting and hosting monthly AccessDNR video, and strengthening agency relations through effective management of all press interaction and outreach. Leverages communications resources from media, nonprofit organizations and state agencies to elevate messaging and promote successes, providing all Agency marketing needs with zero advertising budget.
Learn more at http://www.chesapeakenetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/ms22-karis-king.pdf.
