Overview
Associate Director of News and Media Relations at The Huntington is a versatile writer and strategic communicator responsible for advancing visibility through compelling, mission-driven stories across earned, owned, and digital channels. This role provides strategic oversight for media outreach in partnership with the Director of News and Media Relations and leads the creation of high-quality editorial content that reflects institutional priorities and strengthens audience engagement across platforms. The position reports to the Director of News and Media Relations and is part of the Office of Communications and Marketing.
The Huntington is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities regardless of race, religious creed, color, national origin, disability, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law.
Essential Duties
Writing & Editorial Leadership
- Research, report, and write original long-form and short-form content aligned with institutional priorities and the editorial calendar.
- Develop high-impact stories that reflect institutional priorities and resonate with journalists and public audiences, contributing to earned media outcomes.
- Translate complex scholarly or scientific material into accessible, compelling narratives for public and media audiences.
- Collaborate with curators, researchers, educators, and other content leads to develop stories reflecting The Huntington’s collections, mission, and impact.
- Enterprise story ideas in collaboration with Communications colleagues and subject matter experts to maintain a robust pipeline of publishable content.
- Edit and refine content for clarity, voice, tone, and adherence to AP style; contribute to proofreading and quality control across communications products.
Media Relations Strategy & Oversight
Partner with the Director to shape and implement proactive media engagement strategies that support institutional goals.Provide recommendations and proactive guidance to strengthen decision-making and alignment with priorities.Provide direction on story angles, outlet targeting, and press materials to ensure consistency of message and brand standards.Manage the Communications Specialist, who handles day-to-day pitching, coordinates interviews, facilitates press visits, and monitors analytics.Support the Director in developing messaging, media guidance, and coordinated outreach during issues and crisis situations.Develop and maintain efficient systems for handling press requests, media credentialing, and press pass distribution to ensure timely, professional interactions with journalists.Cross-Platform Story Packaging
Adapt stories for multiple platforms, including the institutional website and landing pages, in collaboration with Creative and Digital teams.Align timelines and deliverables to support exhibitions, research announcements, and institutional initiatives.Measurement & Strategy Refinement
Interpret media coverage and results to identify trends, assess effectiveness, and inform future strategies.Maintain records and analytics for all press requests and credentialing activities to improve efficiency and strengthen media relationships.Provide strategic recommendations and identify opportunities to enhance media engagement and institutional visibility.Collaboration & Leadership
Build relationships across divisions to surface stories and ensure accuracy and alignment.Maintain professionalism and sound judgment when navigating sensitive topics.Foster strong communication with the Director and anticipate emerging needs.Mentor the Communications Specialist and foster a collaborative, high-performing team culture.Coordinate cross-department press access protocols and serve as backup Senior Editor as needed.Other duties as assigned.Qualifications
Required
Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public relations, or a related field.5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in editorial writing and media relations, preferably in a museum, higher education, research, or cultural institution.Excellence in long-form and short-form writing with a portfolio of published work across formats.Strong command of AP style and interviewing / reporting skills.Ability to develop and guide media strategies and lead others in executing those strategies.Experience building and maintaining operational systems that streamline media relations processes.Ability to balance strategic vision with tactical execution and to work across big-picture planning and detail-oriented implementation.Advisory capability with thoughtful recommendations and sound judgment for senior leadership.Experience contributing to crisis communications and issue management.Ability to build relationships across diverse teams and stakeholder groups.Growth mindset with adaptability and willingness to learn.Preferred
Familiarity with CMS platforms, SEO, and digital publishing workflows.Background in narrative journalism or long-form digital storytelling.Physical Requirements & Working Environment
Must be able to sit and perform computer-related functions for long periods.Occasional lifting of office supplies up to 15 lbs.Standard office environment with potential for standing, walking, and occasional reaching.Finger dexterity required for data entry and computer use; regular talking and listening.Vision requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral vision, and focus adjustment.Office environment with moderate noise; onsite presence at The Huntington in San Marino at least three days a week; occasional evening and weekend hours may be required.Compensation & Benefits
Pay Range : $90,000.00–$100,000.00 annually, commensurate on experience.Medical, Dental, Vision403(b) retirement plan with employer matchHybrid remote work schedule where applicableGenerous paid time off including annual leave, sick leave, and holidaysStaff discounts in The Huntington Store and restaurantsFree admission to various museums and cultural institutionsFree passes for family and friends to visit The Huntington groundsApplication Process
Applicants must submit a resume, cover letter, and 4–6 writing samples demonstrating range (at least one press release, one long-form feature, and one explainer piece). Additional documents may be submitted in the application portal.
#J-18808-Ljbffr