Media Relations and Public Affairs Manager

Overview

The Media Relations and Public Affairs Manager will help strengthen Northwestern University in Qatar’s profile and reputation by leading and coordinating media engagement, relationship management, and the sharing of institutional stories. The role supports communications priorities by making sure academic accomplishments, research activity, and institutional updates are represented clearly and accurately in external media and internal channels.

Working alongside leadership and internal teams, this position contributes to executive communications, press outreach, and institutional reporting within established communication standards and guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and support media activity that aligns with NU-Q communications goals and institutional priorities.
• Build and maintain working relationships with journalists, editors, and other media contacts in Qatar, across the region, and internationally.
• Assist with communication efforts involving government, diplomatic, and other external stakeholders when needed.
• Write and circulate press releases, opinion pieces, media kits, and official statements in coordination with internal partners.
• Track media coverage, compile summaries, and prepare regular reporting.
• Manage incoming media questions and interview requests.
• Help increase leadership visibility by coordinating interview opportunities and other media placements.
• Work with the content team to ensure consistent institutional storytelling.
• Prepare briefing notes, background research, and talking points.
• Update and maintain media databases and tracking systems.
• Coordinate with partner organizations to support aligned outreach initiatives.
• Follow NU-Q editorial standards and brand guidelines in all outputs.

Team Collaboration

• Contribute to a collaborative, high-performing team environment built on accountability, trust, and shared goals.
• Take part in regular team meetings and workshops.
• Help maintain documentation, processes, and shared resources that support continuity and institutional knowledge.

Other Duties

Additional responsibilities may be assigned by the Assistant Dean and senior leadership as needed.

Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, or a closely related discipline is required. The role calls for 5 to 7 years of experience in media relations, ideally within higher education or another knowledge-driven environment.

Candidates should have a proven record of earning media coverage, along with excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills. A solid understanding of local, regional, and international media landscapes is also important, as is the ability to handle multiple priorities with accuracy and sound professional judgment.

Preferred Profile

A master’s degree in Journalism, Integrated or Strategic Communications, Public Relations, or a related area is preferred. Additional advantages include an established network of media contacts in Qatar and the region, experience in multicultural or academic settings, familiarity with media monitoring and analytics platforms, knowledge of the Education City ecosystem, and strong editorial judgment grounded in media best practices.

Compensation and Equity

The targeted annual salary range for this role is USD 70,020 to USD 90,260. Final offers will depend on the candidate’s experience and education, and will also take internal equity at Northwestern University into account.

Equal Opportunity and Accommodation

Northwestern University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. Candidates who need an accommodation during the application or hiring process may contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance for assistance with the accommodations process.

Role Details

Department: NUQ Marketing
Salary/Grade: EXS/8
Location: Doha, Qatar