Media Relations Manager (Hybrid)

About the Organization

The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), an internationally recognized peer-reviewed general medical journal, has been published continuously since 1883. It is part of the JAMA Network, comprising 11 specialty journals and JAMA Network Open, delivering cutting-edge medical research and opinions globally. The American Medical Association (AMA) fosters an inclusive workplace culture that prioritizes employee empowerment and social responsibility, focused on advancing health care and community well-being.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Media Relations Manager to join our Scientific Publication team based in Chicago, IL. This hybrid role requires presence in the office three days a week. The position's main objective is to increase the visibility and understanding of JAMA Network's research through strategic media relations and communications efforts. The role involves identifying notable research content, pitching to relevant media outlets, building and maintaining trusted relationships with medical, science, and public health journalists, and ensuring accurate coverage of peer-reviewed studies aligned with our global communication goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and pitch select JAMA Network research and editorial content to journalists locally, nationally, and internationally, tailored by media type, topical beat, and geography.
• Act as the primary liaison for media inquiries, coordinating interviews, responding to requests, and ensuring timely communication.
• Manage embargoed content processes, including maintaining embargo access lists, approving access requests, enforcing embargo guidelines, and educating journalists about embargo policies.
• Monitor breaking news, policy shifts, and emerging health subjects to identify media opportunities and support quick issue responses, escalating when necessary.
• Oversee the operation of media relations tools such as the JAMA Network Media Center and manage communications regarding embargoed content and tip sheets.
• Draft and assist in crafting communications materials including press releases, talking points, FAQs, summaries, and messages, collaborating closely with senior leaders to maintain accuracy and message consistency.
• Extend outreach efforts to global audiences by adapting messaging for international media and linking institutional partners with relevant media contacts.
• Innovate outreach approaches beyond traditional news channels by engaging content creators, podcasts, and newsletters while ensuring credibility and audience alignment.
• Apply editorial and embargo policies to manage sensitive issues or crisis communications effectively.
• Contribute messaging for various communications channels such as newsletters, stakeholder presentations, and internal briefings.
• Work collaboratively with communications, editorial, marketing, and product teams to coordinate messaging and schedules.
• Collaborate with the Communications Analytics Manager to utilize media monitoring and AI-enabled tools for coverage tracking, identifying trends, and enhancing journalist engagement.
• Use analytics to inform strategy improvements and report outcomes to senior management, encouraging continuous refinement of communications tactics.
• Support adoption of new workflows and tools to enhance efficiency and responsiveness in media and public relations tasks.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree is required.
• Minimum of 5 years experience in journalism, media relations, corporate communications, or related fields.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication capabilities adaptable to diverse audiences and channels.
• Strong organizational skills with ability to manage multiple priorities independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent news judgment with talent for creating compelling narratives from intricate topics.
• Knowledge or experience with large language models (LLMs), prompt engineering, and AI-powered tools is necessary.
• Experience using media monitoring and analytics platforms or proficient in identifying patterns in large datasets is preferred.
• Experience with medical content or scholarly publishing is advantageous.

Additional Information

The position is located at American Medical Association's headquarters at 330 N. Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL, easily accessible by public transport. This is an exempt, full-time role with a salary range of $87,394 to $115,797, determined by qualifications and location. Employees may also participate in incentive programs. AMA is an equal opportunity employer committed to workforce diversity and prohibits discrimination on various legally protected grounds.