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Public Affairs Council

Public Relations Specialist

Cash America is currently looking to hire a Public Relations Specialist.  

Cash America has been in business for over 25 years and is publicly traded in the NYSE.  We are the nation's largest pawnshop retailer and a top leader in the financial services industry.  In 2008, we reached over 1 billion in revenue and are working diligently to be recognized as an employer of choice. We buy and sell quality, pre-owned merchandise such as gold and diamond jewelry, electronics and tools.  We own and operate locations in the United States and Mexico, and also offer online loans in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and Canada. From Cash America Pawn, SuperPawn, Cashland, Payday Advance, Prenda Facil and Mr. Payroll to Enova Financial, the Cash America family of brands offers a multitude of financial services to help people in need.  

This position requires strong organizational skills to help plan, develop and manage public relations projects that will both create and maintain a favorable public image for Cash America. Functions of this role include a strong emphasis on public relations, community relations and media relations. Through strong writing skills and sociable relationship building, this position helps maintain cooperative affiliations with the media, community, consumers, elected officials and other key external stakeholders. This position calls for an imaginative, experienced self-starter who is eager to strategically oversee and execute ideas that align with the company's mission and objectives. This position assists the Director in the overall operation of the company's public relations area.


RESPONSIBILITIES
Manage content for corporate blog to advance company messaging, reputation and image.  Research, write and distribute external newsletter as the editor.  Identify, interpret and capitalize on public relations trends to find more outreach opportunities.  Prepare and update information for media kits and external brochures.  Draft relevant, interesting and effective press releases.  Proactively initiate and execute new concepts and strategies that promote reputation of company, brand-building and community relations.  Monitor media coverage of the company/industry and distribute internal daily newsfeed.  Coordinate and evaluate media training sessions for selected coworkers.  Assist in responding to inquiries from the media or designate appropriate spokespersons.  Develop and maintain good working relationships with the media - including local and national newspapers, trade magazines, bloggers, radio, and television - and company's spokespersons and community organizations to enhance company's image.  Oversee community relations projects/activities, charitable requests and assist in grand opening events.  Update media and community relations information on the company's website.  Assist in managing external PR agency activity as appropriate.  Contribute to production of corporate videos as needed.  Execute administrative duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS
Demonstrated excellence in public relations.  Proficiency in AP Style writing a must.  Requires a blend of skills including superior planning, decision-making and negotiation.  Strong skill set to facilitate and lead work groups.  Ability to champion projects and take initiative to meet objectives and deadlines.  Experience managing multiple complex projects simultaneously involving several customers.  Effective time management skills required; ability to organize and prioritize efficiently.  Strong written and verbal communication skills with thorough attention to detail.  Insightful editorial skills and sound business judgment.  Effective presentation skills.  Solid communication and relationship-building skills with all levels of employees,  management and external stakeholders.  Ability to exercise flexibility, initiative and discretion with integrity.  Knowledge of federal and state government functions a plus.

EDUCATION
Bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, journalism or related field.  Requires at least three years of progressive public relations experience

HOW TO APPLY
http://www.cashamerica.com/Careers/JoinOurTeam.aspx  Corporate Positions
SOURCE: PUBLIC AFFAIRS COUNCIL 09/08/11