Manager, Media Relations

Company DescriptionMcDonald’s is proud to be one of the most recognized brands in the world, with restaurants in over 100 countries that serve 70 million customers daily. We continue to operate from a position of strength. Our updated growth strategy is focused on staying ahead of what our customers want and realizing further growth potential. Our relentless ambition is why McDonald’s remains one of the world’s leading corporations after almost 70 years. Joining McDonald's means thinking big and preparing for a career that can have influence around the world.At McDonald’s, we see every day as a chance to create positive impact. We lead through our values centered on inclusivity, service, integrity, community and family. From support of Ronald McDonald House Charities to our Youth Opportunity project and sustainability initiatives, our values keep us dedicated to using our scale for good: good for our customers, people, industry and planet. We also offer a broad range of outstanding benefits including a sabbatical program, tuition assistance and flexible work arrangements.We are enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid work model, in which employees spend part of their week connecting with co-workers in our state-of-the-art headquarters. Located in the booming West Loop of downtown Chicago, it's set up to be a global hub that cultivates collaboration:Take a class at Hamburger UniversitySample future items in our Test KitchenUtilize the latest technology to connect with your team around the globeWe are an equal opportunity employer committed to the diversity of our crew members, staff, operators, and suppliers. We promote an inclusive work environment that creates feel-good moments for everyone.Job DescriptionWe’re looking for a Media Relations Manager to drive earned media strategy for the US market. This person will be critical in translating the US business narrative and strategic priorities in a clear, compelling way for media – ultimately driving brand affinity and trust.This position will be based in Chicago and report directly to the Director, US Field Communications & PR. You will be a member of the broader North American Impact team.Responsibilities:In this role, you will:Lead national media relations strategy and execution across key US business/operations, marketing, community and people initiativesUse data and knowledge of the earned media landscape to develop creative approaches to reach key audiencesDraft and review materials including strategic communications plans, pitches, press releases, statements, Q&A and moreDrive high-impact thought leadership opportunities for McDonald’s US C-Suite, including pitching/securing interviews, developing narratives and briefing executivesTriage and manage media issues and crises impacting the US businessPartner with the Field Communications team to ensure McDonald’s national priorities and narrative are cascaded locally in all 10 Field OfficesIn partnership with Global Media Relations, serve as a media relations subject matter expert for the Communications team and other functional partnersBuild and strengthen reporter relationships on behalf of the brandConstantly mine for potential news angles and data to support opportunistic storytellingWork with the Measurement & Insights team to refine analytics and reporting for earned media coverage Qualifications BA/BS degree requiredNatural storyteller with excellent speaking, writing and editing skillsAbility to navigate, orchestrate and work through complex issues with a strategic lensStrong experience and knowledge of the earned media landscapeAdept at navigating media issues and crises for large brandsStrong business knowledge with a demonstrated ability to understand business strategy and how to use communications as a mechanism to drive that strategyProven leadership and ability to influence and work with Sr. Leadership and multi-disciplined teamsOn the record media relations experience & experience managing agencies is a plus Additional InformationMcDonald’s is an equal opportunity employer committed to the diversity of our workforce. We promote an inclusive work environment that creates feel-good moments for everyone. McDonald’s provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities as part of the application or hiring process or to perform the essential functions of their job. If you need assistance accessing or reading this job posting or otherwise feel you need an accommodation during the application or hiring process, please contact [email protected]. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis.McDonald’s provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to sex, sex stereotyping, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, and medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), race, color, religion, ancestry or national origin, age, disability status, medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, protected military or veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.Nothing in this job posting or description should be construed as an offer or guarantee of employment.