Manager, External Communications & Media Relations

About the Role

A partner organization based in the United States is seeking an adept Manager for External Communications & Media Relations to enhance public understanding and further a purpose-driven mission through strategic storytelling and earned media approaches. This role suits a communications expert with excellent news judgment, innovative thinking, and a passion for crafting impactful narratives.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement earned media strategies that secure substantial coverage at local, regional, and national levels.
• Establish and sustain strong connections with journalists, editors, producers, influencers, and a variety of media outlets.
• Oversee editorial pitch schedules aligned with organizational goals, advocacy campaigns, key seasonal events, and other priorities.
• Track news trends to spot timely opportunities and generate relevant media stories.
• Compose engaging press content such as pitches, press releases, media advisories, website articles, and briefing documents.
• Conduct targeted outreach across print, digital, broadcast, radio, podcasts, and specialized publications.
• Spotlight human-centered stories showcasing impact on mission, community experiences, partnerships, and accomplishments.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to collect insights, data, and stories that reinforce communication objectives.
• Prepare spokesperson talking notes, interview support materials, and messaging guides.
• Coordinate media queries, interviews, logistical arrangements, ensuring consistent messaging.
• Lead efforts in media monitoring, coverage assessment, reporting, and performance evaluation.
• Support communication around events, activations, campaigns, and official announcements.
• Provide assistance during crisis communications and public relations initiatives as necessary.
• Facilitate coordination with external agencies, vendors, and PR partners.

Candidate Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, marketing, public relations, or a related discipline.
• Between 3 to 5+ years of proven experience in public relations, communications, journalism, or storytelling with track record of success.
• Demonstrated capability in creating media strategies, pitching stories, and achieving earned media coverage.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to engage journalists and internal partners effectively.
• Strong storytelling skills, with experience in recognizing powerful narratives and producing compelling content.
• Self-driven with ability to anticipate opportunities and independently solve challenges.
• Organizational excellence with capacity to manage multiple assignments and deadlines simultaneously.
• Experience with PR monitoring and media intelligence platforms such as Meltwater, TV Eyes, PR Newswire, or equivalents.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and digital collaboration and communication tools.
• Comfortable operating within a hybrid work environment, including frequent field activities.
• Willingness to support evening and weekend events as required.
• Physical capacity to lift up to 25 pounds for event and field-related tasks.

Benefits and Work Environment

• Annual salary ranging from $80,000 to $90,000.
• Flexible hybrid-remote work set-up with opportunities for engaging fieldwork.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• 403(b) retirement savings plan with matching contributions.
• Generous paid leave options including holidays, birthday leave, volunteer time, and seasonal flexible schedules.
• Paid parental leave benefits.
• Access to Flexible and Dependent Care Spending Accounts and commuter reimbursement programs.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Employee assistance programs with wellness and mental health support.
• Various discounted perks including entertainment, fitness, travel, and lifestyle benefits.
• An organizational culture focused on people and community engagement.

Additional Information

This role operates through an AI-driven candidate matching system to identify qualified applicants swiftly and fairly. Final hiring decisions and interview processes are managed internally by the partnering employer. Applicants’ personal data will be processed under applicable data protection regulations, including GDPR compliance. AI tools may assist with evaluating application materials but do not replace human decision-making in hiring.