Publicist

Who we are

Semafor is a global news platform for an increasingly complex world in which consumers are overwhelmed by too many news sources and unsure what to trust. We are building Semafor to enable world-class journalists to deliver reporting and insights with rigor in journalistic forms that ensure a new level of transparency. Our editors and reporters distill the most important stories from all over in formats that uncover the forces shaping the stories, explain the interests behind polarizing narratives, and replenish the stock of shared facts. As a global platform, Semafor recognizes that smart people can disagree and that informed readers need to understand alternative points of view from competing centers of power and culture in a multi-polar world. Want to join us? Read on. 

About this role

Reporting to the Global Head of Communications, this role will be responsible for helping to manage the day-to-day operations of Semafor’s communications efforts. Embedded deep within the fabric of the newsroom, you’ll be working with our journalists and editors each day on amplifying our journalism across outlets that align with our brand and goals, as well as supporting and promoting other core areas of our business.

As Publicist, you will:

• Work closely with the Global Head of Communications to develop and execute a robust day-to-day communications strategy that supports the newsroom.
• Develop and implement communications / PR strategies that amplify Semafor’s high-impact reporting, editorial projects, and newsroom initiatives.
• Proactively identify editorial moments, trends, or news cycles where our reporting and talent should be part of the media conversation 
• Maintain an always-on awareness of the competitive media landscape to spot gaps and opportunities for coverage.
• Cultivate strong relationships with national TV and radio/podcast bookers, and maintain segmented, up-to-date media lists.
• Pitch booking producers across major broadcast networks and platforms (including TV, radio, and podcasts/YouTube) daily, working closely with newsroom leaders and journalists to promote scoops and impactful journalism 
• Draft talking points, briefings, and internal messaging for internal and external communications, including writing and editing media alerts on deadline.
• Secure daily press coverage across television, radio, print, and digital outlets for a wide range of coverage areas.
• Support development and implementation of a creative and consistent internal communications strategy.
• Lead and manage a global calendar of awards submissions, media lists, and speaking opportunities.
• Oversee media monitoring, including compiling timely press recaps and reports using a range of PR tools.
• Proactively recommend and implement new workflows and processes to improve the effectiveness and speed of the communications function.

Requirements:

• Experience in communications, preferably at a news organization, in media/entertainment/politics or other similar work environments. 
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent is preferred.
• Deep passion for news and current affairs with broad understanding of the current global / U.S. news/media environment is a must. 
• Proven ability to garner media attention, craft stories, and drive daily results. 
• Previous experience booking network appearances for individuals/brands, and interacting with reporters on daily inquiries and media requests.
• A team player with the ability to work with others in a fast-paced news environment on deadline.
• A strong sense of what makes a good feature or news angle, and a varied contact list across the media landscape, including broadcast, print and online, with contacts in news in the US and globally
• Impeccable writing skills with the ability to write and produce clear and concise communications materials under time constraints. 
• Previous experience with using PR & social media tools (e.g., Critical Mention, Muck Rack, Mailchimp, Twitter) is a plus
• Experience with handling set-up and logistics for speaking engagements and events.
• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Proactivity and resourceful problem-solving skills.

Additional Job Details

This position is based in New York, NY. Candidates must be willing to work flexible hours and travel domestically and internationally on an as-needed basis.

Salary Range: $90k-$110K base annual salary.  Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certifications, etc.

Additional job details

Semafor offers a Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) policy to our full-time, salaried employees who may take paid time off as-needed without a prescribed limit or defined balance.

Semafor, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and enthusiastically encourages people from all backgrounds and experiences to apply. Semafor, Inc. will consider all applicants without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical and/or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.