$90,000/year
931 Lake St, Oak Park, IL 60301, USA
We are working on behalf of a client, a Chicago-based communications firm, to fill a key contractor role. The Public Relations Manager is responsible for managing the public image and client-facing PR strategy for a small communications firm. This includes leading media and community relations efforts, developing and executing campaigns, creating content, and fostering stakeholder relationships. The PR Manager plays a critical role in building and maintaining a positive public perception of both the firm and its clients while supporting strategic initiatives and managing PR deliverables across multiple accounts. Key Responsibilities Strategy and Planning: ● Develop and implement strategic PR plans that align with client and agency goals. ● Provide account leadership, develop client-facing communication strategies, and oversee campaign execution. Media Relations: ● Lead media outreach and engagement, including pitching stories, coordinating interviews, writing press releases, and maintaining relationships with media outlets. ● Monitor media coverage and provide relevant updates and analysis to clients. Community Relations: ● Represent clients in community engagement efforts, building partnerships with grassroots organizations, issue advocates, and human service providers. ● Attend events and collaborate with community stakeholders. Content Creation & Communication: ● Draft compelling content for a range of formats: speeches, op-eds, brochures, newsletters, social media, and websites. ● Support the development of marketing materials and promotional campaigns. Campaign Execution: ● Plan and implement PR campaigns promoting specific initiatives, services, or events. Crisis Management: ● Assist in the development and execution of crisis communication plans to mitigate risk and protect client reputation. Account Management: ● Manage client deliverables including meeting agendas, recaps, activity reports, and invoices. ● Support new business development and proposal writing as needed. Skills Required: ● Strong verbal and written communication, including public speaking and media writing. ● Proven ability to lead and manage PR campaigns and client accounts. ● Established relationships with Chicago-area media and community organizations (preferred). ● Strategic thinking with a solution-oriented, resourceful mindset. ● Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment. ● Discretion and professionalism in handling confidential information. ● Intermediate to advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office and project management tools (e.g., Google Workspace, SmartSheet, Critical Mention). ● Familiarity with social media strategy and content development. Qualifications: ● Bachelor’s degree or higher in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field. ● Minimum of 5–7 years of relevant professional experience in public relations or strategic communications. ● Prior agency experience is strongly preferred. ● Demonstrated experience with media relations, campaign management, and stakeholder engagement. Work Environment: ● Primarily remote with occasional in-person attendance at community events or client engagements. To Apply: Please provide your resume and a cover letter. The position will remain open until filled. While we will do our best to respond to all candidates, please pardon our delay as we thoughtfully review all applicants.