What Success Looks Like
A successful Communications Specialist anticipates media opportunities, develops compelling and newsworthy story angles, aligns internal partners early, and executes with precision to secure positive earned media coverage. They act as a trusted advisor and, when needed, a confident on-camera spokesperson.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Media Planning & Execution
- Develop strategic communications and media plans aligned to reputation and business needs
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Identify proactive earned media opportunities and story ideas
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Plan around media cycles, deadlines, and reporter availability
Story Development & Creativity
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Translate operational and technical work into compelling, relatable stories
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Design creative, visual media opportunities that attract coverage
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Identify story angles that resonate with specific outlets and audiences
Media Relations
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Build and maintain strong relationships with reporters and media outlets
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Research reporters and tailor pitches to outlet interests and timing
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Pitch, coordinate, and secure earned media coverage across the state
Stakeholder Collaboration
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Identify and engage key internal partners early (e.g., Power Delivery)
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Leverage internal relationships to align messaging and logistics
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Coordinate across departments to deliver media-ready stories
Spokesperson & Content Development
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Serve as an on-camera spokesperson when appropriate
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Write clear, accurate, and engaging content for online and digital channels
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Ensure all messaging aligns with brand and reputation standards
Candidates that meet the below criteria are encouraged to apply:
Experience & Qualifications
Required
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7-10 years of professional experience in communications, public relations, journalism, or media relations
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Demonstrated experience securing earned media coverage , not just writing or support work
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Proven ability to develop and execute media plans , not solely react to requests
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Strong experience pitching reporters and tailoring stories to specific outlets
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Experience working across multiple departments to deliver communications outcomes
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Excellent writing skills for external audiences and digital platforms
Preferred
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Experience serving as an on-camera spokesperson or preparing leaders/employees for media
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Experience supporting a large, complex, or operational organization (e.g., utilities, infrastructure, industrial, or regulated environments)
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Existing media relationships in Alabama or the Southeast
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Experience managing communications tied to reputation, brand, or public trust
Southern Company
30 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW
Atlanta
Georgia États-Unis
www.southerncompany.com
