Media and External Relations Manager

MSU Extension Media and External Relations Manager

Position Overview

The Michigan State University (MSU) Extension Media and External Relations Manager is responsible for organization-wide media strategy and external engagement activities for MSU Extension. As part of a collaborative communications team, this position leads the execution of proactive media and external relations efforts that enhance the visibility, credibility, and public impact of MSU Extension statewide and nationally.

Under the leadership and direction of the MSU Extension Director of Communications and Digital Strategy, you will carry out organizational priorities and goals for media engagement and strategic communications campaigns that increase awareness and understanding of MSU Extension’s mission, programs, and impact. You will implement media strategy, including issues management, and ensure alignment with University Communications and Marketing. Your responsibilities include managing media inquiries, developing press materials and key messages, preparing leadership and subject matter experts for media engagement, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders and supporting major announcements and public-facing initiatives.

As the MSU Extension Media and External Relations Manager, you will also contribute to high-impact storytelling and content development, including digital content, legislative materials, and impact-focused narratives. Additionally, you will provide guidance and training on media engagement and ensure all external communications align with MSU brand standards and organizational priorities.

Although negotiable, there will be space available for this position to work from the campus of Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan.

This position may be eligible to utilize a flexible work environment, however, there is an expectation to work from a MSU Extension office. The needs, responsibilities, and opportunities of an individual’s position and office location drive the ability and amount of work-location flexibility.

This is an off-dated position funded for one year from the date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Qualifications (see full description for complete list of requirements)

• Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in journalism, telecommunications, marketing, advertising, public relations, or related field. 
• Three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in public and media relations; composing, editing and publication production; news, broadcasting, and print media; and/or marketing, advertising, and creative services; graphic design; word processing; desktop publishing; web design; presentation; spreadsheet and/or database software; public presentation or radio production; or computer programming/technology.
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Application Process

View full description and apply through the MSU careers page. Search for posting #1144437 using the Job Search field. 

Application deadline is July 28, 2026.