[Hiring] Senior Manager, Media Relations @Public Rights Project

Role Description

Public Rights Project (PRP) is seeking a Senior Manager, Media Relations to lead and drive our earned media strategy for the organization and our growing network of local government partners. In this role, you will elevate the voices of local leaders and communities on the frontlines of justice, translating complex legal and policy work into clear, compelling narratives and high-impact written materials that shape public discourse and reach national and regional audiences.

Reporting to the Director of Communications, you will directly supervise the Media Relations Coordinator while working closely with PRP's broader Communications & Marketing team. You will cultivate high-value journalist relationships, lead proactive media campaigns, and produce and oversee publication-ready content — from press releases to op-eds — that positions PRP and our partners as leading voices in civil rights, democracy, and local governance.

This role requires both strategic leadership and strong execution, with a high degree of editorial judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to deliver high-quality work under tight deadlines. It is an opportunity to operate at the intersection of law, policy, and social justice, with visibility into high-impact litigation and direct engagement with senior leaders.

Qualifications

• Seven (7) to ten (10) years of relevant professional experience in communications, media relations, or public affairs, ideally within a legal, civil rights, advocacy, or policy environment.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of training, education, and experience.
• Demonstrated track record of securing earned media placements in national and regional outlets.
• Deep experience developing senior leadership communications and thought leadership content.
• Experience preparing organizational spokespersons for media appearances and high-profile press engagements.
• At least three (3) years of experience directly supervising or managing staff, with a demonstrated ability to develop and support team members.
• Proficiency with Meltwater or comparable media monitoring and analytics platforms is required.
• Familiarity with the legal and civil rights landscape, and comfort translating complex litigation and policy issues for broad audiences.
• Passion and commitment to using the power of government to protect marginalized communities' civil rights and freedoms.
• Commitment to the mission and core values of Public Rights Project, especially diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

Requirements

• Lead PRP's proactive earned media strategy, identifying and driving opportunities to place stories with national, regional, and issue-specific media outlets.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with journalists, editors, and producers across a range of beats including civil rights, immigration, democracy, criminal justice, and local government.
• Support PRP's network of local government partners — including mayors and other elected officials — in developing and executing their own public relations strategies.
• Serve as a primary media contact for PRP, managing inbound press inquiries and coordinating rapid response to breaking news.
• Lead the drafting and editorial review of press releases, media advisories, op-eds, statements, and other external materials.
• Manage and coordinate embargoed releases, ensuring timely and accurate distribution to media partners.
• Lead media event production, including press conferences, media briefings, and media trainings for PRP staff and government partners.
• Partner with PRP’s external media relations consultants to align on strategy, coordinate outreach efforts, and maximize media opportunities.
• Support thought leadership strategies for PRP's executive leadership.
• Prepare PRP staff and local government leaders for high-profile media appearances.
• Work closely with the Director of Communications and the Chief Communications and Marketing Officer.
• Advise on organizational public statements.
• Lead media monitoring and analysis using Meltwater and similar platforms.
• Track news cycles and issue area developments.
• Develop and maintain media lists across issue areas, markets, and audiences.
• Produce regular media coverage reports and present findings to leadership.
• Directly supervise the Media Relations Coordinator, providing day-to-day guidance, ongoing feedback, and professional development support.
• Set clear goals and priorities for the Coordinator, delegating effectively and creating opportunities for growth.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team culture consistent with PRP's values.
• Partner with the Director of Communications on team planning, capacity, and performance management.

Benefits

• The determined salary range for this role is set between $105,600 - $158,400.
• Exact salary will be based on candidate experience.
• For internal equity purposes, PRP will not negotiate with candidates outside of the role’s designated range.

Application Instructions

Please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your interest in this role and how your experience aligns with the qualifications. Apply directly via the PRP website.