Function of the Position:

This is a hands-on, non-supervisory position responsible for maintaining and enhancing media perception and coverage of USP and its initiatives. The incumbent plays a key role in ensuring that USP's mission and messages are communicated to target audiences through a wide range of print and online media outlets, and for creating opportunities for USP's subject matter experts to serve as thought leaders in public media-oriented forums.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Helps develop and execute media relations strategies and tactics across all USP areas of interest, with the goal of optimizing positive public exposure of USP initiatives and experts;
• Develops and enhances relationships with relevant reporters across media platforms: trade press, general interest publications, international press, consumer publications, political trade press, and online equivalents; develops and enhances relationships with press offices of relevant government agencies and stakeholder associations;
• Writes and edits press releases, stories for USP newsletters, contributed articles, content for social media platforms, media messaging, success stories, and content for other genres as required; obtains all necessary approvals;
• Helps manage PR agency's time and priorities;
• Develops and maintains strong working relationships within USP across all areas of activity; remains current regarding status of USP programs and issues;
• Arranges high-value media interviews with USP spokespersons; coaches spokespersons on interview tactics, and provides timely and adequate background prior to scheduled interviews; follows up with reporters as necessary;
• Works with the MR in-house team and PR agency to identify and develop opportunities for USP subject matter experts to serve as thought leaders on relevant public health topics through speaking engagements or published editorials;
• Manages social media properties and recommends/executes plans to extend their reach; tracks metrics to document effectiveness; integrates social and traditional media outreach to optimize impact of both; works with relevant internal groups to ensure that media outreach and marketing campaigns are integrated where beneficial;
• Oversees support activities of the Senior Administrative Assistant to the Vice President of External Affairs and Strategic Integration to complete such projects as contributed articles, media briefings, photo shoots, or other;
• Helps secure media coverage of USP events (e.g., Annual Scientific Meeting and Workshops); manages reporters on-site; other event support as needed;
• Works closely with the MR team and other groups within the External Affairs/Strategic Integration division to optimize outreach to external stakeholders;
• Demonstrates support of and adherence to USP core values.

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, English, or other relevant area and five years relevant experience in public/media relations, preferably in a healthcare, pharmaceutical, or other scientific area OR a Master's degree and three years relevant experience is required.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Training and Experience:

The candidate must demonstrate exceptional oral and written communications skills, preferably in a scientific or medical field; experience in a nonprofit environment is desirable. Thorough knowledge of media relations procedures (traditional print, online, and social media) required, as is knowledge of AP style. Strong interviewing skills and video competence required. Computer competence (including extensive familiarity with social media platforms and Microsoft Office) required, as is the ability to interact productively and efficiently at all levels of organizational functions. Pre-existing relationships with trade and general interest media healthcare/science reporters are highly desirable. International media relations experience is desirable. While not a requirement, written and spoken knowledge of Mandarin Chinese is desirable. Must be able to operate independently yet understand when to escalate issues; must also be able to work effectively within a team. Ability to research a story using verifiable sources is required, as is the ability to synthesize complex scientific material and express it clearly in lay terms; prior experience as a science or healthcare journalist would be helpful. The candidate must be able to develop strong working relationships with press offices in outside organizations as well as with reporters. Must demonstrate creativity, flexibility and resourcefulness.

Local candidates strongly preferred.

We are proud to be an AA/EEO employer M/F/D/V. Women, minorities, veterans, and disabled persons are encouraged to apply. If you are interested in applying for employment with the United States Pharmacopeia and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply for a posted position, please contact our Human Resources department at humanresources@usp.org.

Apply online at www.usp.jobs