Jared Stonesifer
Pittsburgh
Summary
Communications leader with extensive experience in crisis management and media relations. Proven track record in enhancing institutional reputation, successfully managing high-stakes communications, and overseeing a dedicated team. Recognized for strategic messaging and effective issues management at a prominent educational institution.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Head of External Communications and Media Relations
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh
08.2022 - Current
- I started in this role as University Spokesperson, serving as the main conduit between the media and the University of Pittsburgh.
- A year after starting, I was promoted to Senior Director of Media Relations, and a year after that, promoted again to Head of External Communications and Media Relations.
- My role is primarily focused on issues management, crisis communications, and institutional risk and reputation.
- I oversee a team of four media relations professionals, two social media professionals, and a team of interns.
- Successes have included: managing external communications in announcing a new Chancellor, upholding Pitt’s reputation in the midst of two student encampments on campus, and managing external communications in the dismissal of one Athletics director and the hiring of another.
Director of Media Relations
PennFuture
Pittsburgh
05.2019 - 08.2022
- Served as spokesperson and communications manager for statewide environmental non-profit, enhancing organization's public presence.
- Wrote press releases, editorial content, and newsletters while managing organization’s social media accounts and website content to engage audience effectively.
- Collaborated with Pennsylvania state government counterparts to align and advance shared priorities and goals.
- Successes include organizing a press conference in the state Capitol that included 30 partner organizations and resulted in dozens of earned media placements across Pennsylvania, as well as writing and placing op-eds frequently in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh media outlets.
Newspaper Reporter
Beaver County Times
01.2015 - 01.2019
- Reported on business, transportation, and energy issues, providing timely analysis and insights for readers.
Web Content Producer
WPXI Channel 11
01.2015 - 01.2018
- Breaking news content producer for WPXI Channel 11, with administrator duties for all of the station's social media accounts
Newspaper Reporter
Butler Eagle
01.2008 - 01.2015
- Covered local, state, and national politics as a beat reporter, provided timely and accurate news to inform the community.
Education
University of Pittsburgh - Journalism, Political Science
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, PA08-2007
Skills
- Crisis communications
- Issues management
- Reputation and risk management
- Media relations
- External communications
- Executive communications
- Writing and editing
- Social media
- Project management
- Deadline management
Awards
- 2016, First place, Best Spot News coverage, PA Associated Press Media Editors Award
- 2016, Second place, Best Business Writing, PA Associated Press Media Editors Award
Timeline
Head of External Communications and Media Relations
University of Pittsburgh
08.2022 - Current
Director of Media Relations
PennFuture
05.2019 - 08.2022
Newspaper Reporter
Beaver County Times
01.2015 - 01.2019
Web Content Producer
WPXI Channel 11
01.2015 - 01.2018
Newspaper Reporter
Butler Eagle
01.2008 - 01.2015
University of Pittsburgh - Journalism, Political Science
University of Pittsburgh