University of Texas at San Antonio Issues Communications RFP

University seeks to obtain services from a professional public relations firm to perform internal and external communications and related services that will enhance the profile and reputation of UTSA. Successful proposer will possess the ability to provide efficient immediate response to public concerns, effectively and efficiently addressing communications during crisis or emergencies, possess knowledge of the local community, have a proven track record of successfully addressing communications issues experienced by an institution of higher education similar to UTSA, have a firm understanding of UTSA’s vision, strategic initiatives, and have thorough knowledge and understanding of local government organizations.

Background:

The University of Texas at San Antonio is a multicultural discovery enterprise institution with more than 32,000 students. It is the largest university in the San Antonio metropolitan region. The University of Texas at San Antonio is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge through research and discovery, teaching and learning, community engagement and public service. As an institution of access and excellence, UTSA embraces multicultural traditions and serves as a center for intellectual and creative resources as well as a catalyst for socioeconomic development and the commercialization of intellectual

University seeks to obtain services from a professional public relations firm to perform internal and external communications and related services that will enhance the profile and reputation of UTSA. Successful proposer will possess the ability to provide efficient immediate response to public concerns, effectively and efficiently addressing communications during crisis or emergencies, possess knowledge of the local community, have a proven track record of successfully addressing communications issues experienced by an institution of higher education similar to UTSA, have a firm understanding of UTSA’s vision, strategic initiatives, and have thorough knowledge and understanding of local government organizations.

Required services shall include, but are not limited to the following:

                a) On-call counsel and support that encompasses internal and external communications.

                b) Immediate on-call crisis and issues counsel and support as needed. This support may be planned or unplanned and requires a constant contact method to ensure immediate response to   sensitive issues.

                c) Assist with key interviews and preparation of media materials, provide media lists, and develop lasting media relationships as needed throughout the contracted period.

                d) Meeting with UTSA designated staff to discuss potential UTSA issues and provide services to mitigate negative or inaccurate media coverage of such issues.

                e) Providing clear, consistent messages for responses to sensitive topics.

                f) Developing ongoing post-crisis communication strategies.

                g) Developing, coordinating, and planning effective executive leadership communications.

                h) Providing counsel and support related to communicating with government entities or with    regards to public and community affairs.

                i) Providing counsel and support to the UTSA Development Office regarding donor and other     stakeholder outreach.

                j) Conducting situational analysis for topics such as current media articles related to UTSA, public concerns, university advancements or developments, or university initiatives. Develop and             deliver effective University communications for these topics as needed or requested.

                k) Managed communications may include communication with or to audiences including UTSA faculty and staff, specific governmental groups including government entities such as municipal   government, county government, elected officials, other Universities or educational entities, or     the public.

                l) Evaluate communication channels and coordinate with appropriate UTSA areas to select most              effective channels to effectively reach target audiences.

                m) Develop and manage communication action plans.

                n) Provide strategies to help de-escalate growing areas of concern, specifically relating to the higher education landscape.

                o) Provide real-time assistance and monitoring of traditional media and social media channels.

Contractor will coordinate all of the services described above with UTSA’s Communications and Marketing department and/or the designated UTSA contact.

UTSA may require contractor to perform additional services, on an as-needed basis. These services may include one or more of the following and should not be included in the proposed fees for routine services requested above:

                a) Illustration and graphic design

                b) Creation of digital and web-based communications

                c) Creation of and distribution of video media content

                d) Creation of or management of social media strategies and/or content

                e) Develop strategic marketing positioning and strategies

                f) Track media coverage and social media engagements and provide requested reports to designated UTSA staff.

                g) Develop strategic advertising and marketing campaign development

                h) Review, analyze, and manage social communities

Due Date:

March 22^nd, 2019. 

Address:

The University of Texas at San Antonio

Purchasing and Distribution Services Department RFP# 743-19-030119PD

One UTSA Circle

San Antonio, TX 78249

Agencies with relevant experience includes Prosek Partners and Kite Hill PR.