K9s For Warriors is the nation’s largest provider of service dogs to veterans suffering from the invisible wounds of war, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Our unique, in-house program helps change the lives of American heroes by pairing them with a battle buddy, who was likely a rescue dog and then teaching him or her to utilize that dog to mitigate the symptoms of their wounds. In order to continue the great work we are doing, we are in need of a Public Relations Manager to join our amazing team!
Basic Function
The Public Relations Manager is responsible for developing and executing communication strategies to maintain and expand public awareness of K9s For Warriors. This individual manages external communications initiatives including, but not limited to, creating and maintaining an earned media strategy, managing a third-party PR agency, and creating communications for internal and external initiatives. The goal and scope of the communications efforts and initiatives are to target and engage audiences that are at the local, state, and national level. This manager works closely with the Marketing team in the development and execution of marketing campaigns with a heavy emphasis on media relations, including speech and blog writing, and copy editing. This role is also responsible for media prepping Warriors and staff through interview opportunities, preparing talking points for internal and external use and interview subjects, and occasionally speaking on behalf of the organization to media outlets and third parties.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Create and execute strategic PR plan, in alignment with the organization’s overall marketing and communications initiatives to further spread awareness about the organization and its impact.
- Prepare and disseminate media alerts, press releases, and talking points on relevant K9s stories and events.
- Manage incoming media inquiries, work closely with reporters and other media personnel on coordinating story content and assets.
- Manage third-party PR agency in the development, planning and execution of all earned media opportunities and pitches
- Create new media opportunities at both local, state and national levels.
- Manage press events from creation to post-event reporting on earned media impressions.
- Write engaging stories, blog posts, features, articles, newsletters, op-eds, and speeches to optimize engagement.
- Provide media and speech training for Warrior graduates and key internal leadership
- Stay up to date on current events and breaking news to create timely news opportunities for the organization.
- Build relationships with our Warrior & Service Dog teams, media outlets, and other organizational departments to generate more national awareness of K9s For Warriors
- Assist Marketing team with national PSA and other storytelling campaigns to broaden organizational awareness
- Work closely with the development team to fulfill any press-related requests from corporate partners and businesses
NON-ESSENTIAL DUTIES
- Assist other leaders/department heads with internal communications.
- Report on department projects at marketing meetings.
- Conduct campus tours.
- General office and marketing duties as requested.
job knowledge, skills, and abilities
- 4-year degree in communications, public relations, marketing and/or journalism
- 3+ years in public relations experience
- Competent in Microsoft products and project management
- Competent in Adobe Creative Suite preferred
- Experience in exercising judgment to manage performance and prioritize
- Ability to perform a variety of tasks with a personal sense of initiative
- Ability to lead and direct the work of others
- Strong writing, editing and planning skills
- Ability to operate as an effective tactical as well as strategic thinker
- Attention to detail
- A wide degree of creativity, adaptability and a team mindset is expected
Core Competencies
- Creativity
- Verbal Expression
- Conduct
- Written Expression
- Innovative Power
Physical Demands
- Must be able to remain in a stationary position for long periods of time
- Light to medium lifting required
- Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer
- The person in this position frequently communicates with media, donors and general public who have inquiries about the organization and programs. Must be able to exchange accurate information in a professional manner in these situations.
Mental Demands
- Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment and maintain composure under tight deadlines.
- Must be able to prioritize tasks.
- May on occasion speak with individuals in an elevated emotional state and those expressing suicidal thoughts.
Monday - Friday
9:00am- 5:00pm
Compensation details: 68300-82000 Yearly Salary
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