Public Relations Strategist

Position Summary

A PR Strategist supports a range of reputation-building initiatives, with media relations serving as the core focus of the role. Possessing a strong journalistic foundation, this professional is responsible for identifying newsworthy story angles, developing targeted pitches, crafting compelling press releases and securing coverage at the local, national and industry levels.

The PR Strategist also supports complementary strategies that strengthen client visibility, credibility and thought leadership, including awards, speaking opportunities, community relations and select strategic communications initiatives. They work with a range of B2B and B2C accounts, adapting their approach to each client rather than relying on a template. They collaborate closely with senior PR leaders, account managers and copywriters to execute comprehensive plans and meet campaign objectives.

Success in this role will be measured primarily by media placements secured and relationships built with journalists, along with the ability to identify and execute meaningful opportunities across the broader PR program.

Position Requirements

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a successful track record of securing meaningful media coverage at the local, industry and national levels. They should have established media relationships and an eagerness to build new connections in alignment with client needs. Experience supporting awards, speaking opportunities, community relations or strategic communications is also preferred, along with the curiosity and judgment to identify opportunities that advance broader client objectives.

This professional must be able to manage multiple accounts and projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines, maintaining accuracy and adapting to shifting priorities. They should be comfortable working within plans developed by senior PR leaders while contributing thoughtful recommendations that strengthen strategies, deliverables and internal processes.

A “can do” attitude is essential, coupled with an understanding that all tasks, no matter how fundamental, contribute to the overall success of a campaign. We take pride in our work at all levels and encourage everyone to bring fresh ideas to the table.   

• 5 years professional experience in PR, marketing, communications or journalism
• 2 years media relations experience at a PR agency
• Bachelor’s degree in PR, marketing, communications, journalism or related field
• Proficient in AP Style
• Proficient with Cision and/or Muck Rack for media list development and research
• Proficient with media query services for pitching stories
• Experience with CoverageBook and Critical Mention is a bonus
• Highly punctual and deadline driven
• Takes a proactive role in professional development
• Driven to grow, seek out learning opportunities and bring fresh ideas to the table
• Must have your own computer (relevant software and subscriptions provided)

Key Responsibilities

Duties include, but are not limited to:

Media Relations

• Build and maintain targeted media lists using media databases and online research
• Execute traditional media outreach aligned with clients’ goals, which includes: Identifying creative and relevant story ideas, developing targeted pitches for an array of business objectives, researching media targets for exclusive coverage and monitoring news cycles, industry developments and emerging trends to identify timely opportunities
• Contribute to press release development
• Oversee the distribution of press releases, understanding the nuances between direct media distributions and newswires  
• Oversee media interviews and offer sources guidance, as directed by senior leadership
• Oversee media monitoring and reporting efforts
• Foster and maintain relationships with journalists

Awards & Speaking Opportunities

• Research and evaluate award programs, rankings, speaking opportunities, conferences and other third-party recognition opportunities aligned with client goals
• Maintain calendars of relevant deadlines, requirements and submission dates
• Coordinate the information-gathering process for nominations, applications and speaker submissions
• Contribute to the development of compelling, accurate submissions that effectively position clients and their subject-matter experts
• Track submission outcomes and identify opportunities to promote resulting recognition or engagements

Community Relations

• Research community involvement opportunities that align with clients’ industries, audiences, values and business objectives
• Support outreach to business, industry, civic and nonprofit organizations
• Assist with initiatives that strengthen clients’ relationships and visibility within the communities they serve
• Coordinate community relations activities and related communications, as directed by senior leadership

Daily Operations

• Ensure all deliverables are accurate and on time
• Attend and participate in client meetings virtually or in person, as needed  
• Collaborate with senior PR leaders, account managers, copywriters and other team members to execute integrated client plans
• Support the development of talking points, key messages, FAQs and other strategic communications materials, as directed by senior leadership
• Maintain organized, current records of outreach, opportunities, deadlines and results
• Communicate proactively about progress, priorities, challenges and upcoming deadlines
• Complete other account services tasks, as assigned by senior leadership

Benefits

• 401(k) with company match
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Short/long-term disability
• Life insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Flex scheduling upon approval 
• Reimbursement/fees covered for industry association memberships and events
• Environment and culture that supports physical and mental wellness

Aker Ink Core Values

• Fanatical Excellence: An intense dedication to exceeding expectations and producing the highest quality work.
• Own It, Solve It: Accountable to ourselves, our team and our clients. As problems arise, proactively solve them for the betterment of all parties.
• Continuous Improvement: Dedicating time to build connections and skills will lead to personal and professional growth. Value new and creative ways of thinking and executing.
• Positive Can-Do Attitude: In the face of both opportunities and challenges, creativity and enthusiasm ensure the most successful outcomes.