Manager of Public Relations

Academic and Trade Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations or a related field.

Experience:
7 years of public relations and media communications/spokesperson experience in a fast-paced environment preferred, with a minimum of 3 years focused on corporate communications.

Job Responsibilities:
Provide strategic PR direction for organization and counsel for member cooperatives.
Manage media inquiries and serve as company spokesperson.
Execute proactive media outreach to strengthen the network of cooperatives’ position and reputation.
Provide outstanding service and communication support to member cooperatives.
Work as part of a cross-functional team in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple projects simultaneously.
Research and write content, including press releases, editorial articles, response statements, messaging, FAQs, presentations, speeches, talking points, media briefing documents, and other communications materials.
Lead crisis and critical issue communication strategy planning and execution.
Manage external public relations agency.
Measure and evaluate results of public relations efforts with the team.
Support with management of corporate website.
Maintain an understanding of industry, communication and consumer trends, as well as emerging issues that could impact cooperatives, and make recommendations regarding communication strategies surrounding them.

Job Knowledge:
Knowledge of media relations best practices that produce effective and creative earned coverage.
Familiarity with the media landscape in North Carolina.
Experience developing media and crisis communication strategies and fostering and maintaining relationships with members of the media.
Experience serving as a spokesperson, comfortable and skilled in both broadcast and print media interviews.
Proven track record designing and executing successful public relations campaigns and communications plans.
Experience in creating content for traditional and digital platforms.
Knowledge of measuring effectiveness of digital and social content a plus.

Abilities and Skills:
Exceptional interpersonal, public speaking and writing skills to represent the brand with key internal and external stakeholders.
Strategic thinker with a meticulous attention to detail, working well with others and meeting deadlines.
The ability to multitask and adapt in a fast-paced environment and solve complex problems/issues thoughtfully and under pressure.
Comfort in front of the camera and eagerness to work with reporters.
Awareness of the PR significance of social media and a tactical understanding of social platforms.
A service mindset, with a wide degree of creativity and desire to contribute.

Working Conditions:
Normal working conditions, including some travel and responsibilities outside of normal business hours. Includes working shifts during crisis conditions, such as hurricanes and ice storms. Partial remote work option available.

Job Type: Full-time