Assistant Vice President - Public Relations and Strategic/Crisis Communications

Role Overview

The Assistant Vice President (AVP) is a senior leader in communications, independently managing major client relationships and driving campaign strategies that yield measurable business impacts. This position integrates senior client advisory, advanced media expertise, leadership responsibilities, and commercial accountability with proficiency in digital communication and AI-driven workflows.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead client accounts generating approximately $600K to $1.25M in revenue, acting as the primary client liaison and trusted advisor.
• Develop and implement integrated communications plans, public relations campaigns, and executive visibility initiatives aligned with client goals.
• Manage account profitability through budgeting, scope control, staffing, and optimizing deliverables.
• Build and maintain senior media relationships and direct media strategies that secure prominent coverage and thought leadership opportunities.
• Oversee crisis communication strategies, including preparation of key messages, stakeholder communications, and collaboration with legal and leadership teams during critical situations.
• Lead and mentor a team of 2-3 employees plus additional account support staff, ensuring high performance and professional growth.
• Create, review, and approve all client-facing communications materials to maintain clarity and alignment with business priorities.
• Contribute to business development efforts by researching prospects, writing proposals, and participating in pitches while actively networking to enhance agency visibility.
• Leverage digital platforms and AI tools to optimize communications, content creation, and media monitoring, guiding responsible AI use within the team.
• Ensure operational excellence with detailed management of deadlines, time tracking, and account reporting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or relevant equivalent experience.
• 7 to 10+ years in public relations, strategic communications, media relations, journalism, or corporate communications.
• Proven track record in independently managing client relationships and leading integrated communications programs.
• Experience in people management, including delegation, coaching, and performance management.
• Advanced capabilities in media relations securing impactful coverage and visibility for executives.
• Strong skills in account profitability management and client budget oversight.
• Excellent written, verbal, and strategic communication skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, social media, and digital collaboration tools; familiar with PR and media intelligence platforms like Cision, Meltwater, and others.
• Preferred experience with AI-enabled communication and productivity technologies.
• Ability to handle crisis communications and reputation management effectively.
• Willingness to work flexible schedules during critical client situations.

Desired Traits

• Strategic, intellectually curious mindset.
• Strong storytelling and senior communication abilities.
• Judicious and trusted advisor in high-pressure scenarios.
• Proactive relationship and network builder with a focus on business development.
• Effective people leader committed to team talent growth.
• Commercially focused with accountability for account health.
• Adaptable in dynamic environments.
• Digitally literate and knowledgeable about communications technology and AI applications.
• Committed to ongoing innovation and professional development.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance via Horizon BCBS and Guardian/VSP.
• Company-funded Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) for select plans.
• Company-paid life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment coverage.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) fully funded by the company at no cost to employees.
• 401(k) plan with company match, including traditional and Roth options.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare, Dependent Care, Commuter).
• Supplemental insurance options like disability and critical illness through Aflac.
• 24/7 healthcare navigation support with Health Advocate.
• Virtual veterinary consultations via Petzey.