Public Relations Assistant  Full Time

SCOPE:

The primary function of this position is to support the Virgin Islands Port Authoritys Public Information Officer (PIO) in the development and execution of strategic communications that effectively promote the organizations mission, policies, projects, programs, and initiatives across all media platforms.

DUTIES:

• Support the Public Information Officer (PIO) in planning, coordinating, and executing events, including conferences, workshops, facility tours, community outreach initiatives, and official ceremonies such as groundbreakings and grand openings.
• Assist in developing and implementing communication strategies that promote the organizations mission, including preparing presentations, reports, and outreach materials.
• Create, edit, and manage content across communication platforms, including the website, social media, email, newsletters, press releases, and multimedia formats.
• Maintain and routinely review the organizations website to ensure functionality and content accuracy; report issues and recommend updates.
• Monitor and respond to media inquiries; support interview coordination and track media coverage, promptly alerting leadership to relevant or sensitive news.
• Assist PIO with marketing and public relations campaigns, including distributing materials and tracking performance outcomes.
• Research and compile information for fact sheets, speeches, correspondence, and internal and external publications.
• Coordinate public engagement efforts, including responding to inquiries, arranging facility tours, and supporting outreach to schools, senior groups, and community organizations.
• Document organizational activities through photography/video.
• Monitor legislative sessions and GVI press conferences and relevant meetings when required, providing written summaries and insights to the PIO.
• Assist with the procurement of promotional materials.
• Monitor and maintain the PIO’s internal calendar and meetings, internal public relations databases, media distribution lists, and contact records to ensure accurate and efficient communications.
• Manage administrative and operational support functions, including budget tracking, travel coordination, invoice processing, procurement requests, and general office administration.
• Prepare and distribute internal communications to keep employees informed and engaged, and track notable staff milestones or events for organizational awareness (i.e., deaths and funeral announcements of current or past employees, awards, and special achievements)

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• A bachelors degree in journalism, public relations, or a related field; or two years of college training with a minimum of two years of practical experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messages for different audiences.
• Knowledge of current best practices in communication and marketing, with a desire to stay updated on industry trends and advancements.
• Strong attention to detail and proofreading skills, with a high level of accuracy.
• Proficiency in various communication and marketing tools, including social media platforms, content management systems, AI, and email marketing software
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to handle multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
• A proactive and collaborative approach, with the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• A creative mindset and the ability to think outside the box regarding communication strategies.