Community Media Liaison

Community Media Liaison

Beacon Media is a different kind of media organization. We are one of the only media organizations in the U.S. that places an equal emphasis on reaching audiences where they are and working in partnership with local leaders and community publishers and broadcasters to be a force for good. 

Beacon is focused on high-quality opinion and commentary. We are working to elevate the voices of the leaders who are doing the work of building their communities, including working class leaders and organizers. 

We are also different because Beacon Media does not “compete” with existing media organizations. Instead, we are focused on working in partnership with vital local community media outlets to bring them overlooked community voices and ideas that will move North Carolina forward.

We are building a team committed to this innovative approach that influences narratives, drives positive change and helps amplify the voices of North Carolina leaders that highlights values for a more inclusive, fair and just North Carolina.

Our new Community Media Liaison will be a key driver helping create a news and information network that will elevate new voices for our communities across our state. 

What is Beacon Media? 

Beacon Media acts as an old-fashioned media syndicate, distributing commentary to existing media partners such as local newspapers and radio stations to share the voices and vision of future public leaders who are pushing for change. We recruit and support these leaders and content creators to tell powerful stories that promote our state’s progress with a tone of hope and clear calls to action.

We have three target media environments for our distribution network: rural-area media, African-American media, and Spanish-language media. We plan to distribute content across all three and some targeted content within each of those communities. Beacon views “media” broadly, to include community groups and information networks. Our potential media partners range from local newspaper and radio stations to NextDoor, church newsletters and WhatsApp and Facebook groups.

Position Requirements

The Community Media Liaison may work remotely from anywhere in North Carolina. The work will require regular travel throughout the state, including occasional weekends. 

Key Responsibilities

The Community Media Liaison is responsible for establishing Beacon Media and its Beacon Voices throughout North Carolina. Key aspects of the job include:

• Establishing and maintaining relationships with newspaper editors, radio station management and other community news leaders;
• Tracking the placement of Beacon Media content in targeted media outlets;
• Identifying additional outlets for Beacon Media distribution, such as church news bulletins, WhatsApp groups, etc.;
• Researching community media ecosystems in target communities;
• Developing relationships with local leaders to maintain understanding of key issues facing the community and the key places and publications trusted for community news and events;

Preferred Qualifications 

This new position requires creativity and communication skills above any specific qualifications. Beacon Media encourages your application if you have a passion for community media, leaders and bold ideas that will move North Carolina forward. 

Those applying may have:

• 3-5 years experience in community-focused marketing, communications, journalism and/or organizing;
• Spanish-speaking or bilingual;
• Journalism knowledge, background or interest;
• Curiosity or background in local community affairs 
• Interest and knowledge of news and information networks;
• Love of North Carolina

Salary and Benefits 

Salary minimum of $65,000 per year depending on experience. Health care subsidy provided. Ample and flexible paid leave. 

Application 

Please provide a brief cover letter about why this interests you and a resume to Executive Director Jeremy Borden at jeremy@beaconmedianc.org.