Associate Director - Public Relations

About Avenue Z, Inc.

At Avenue Z, we are a dynamic media and technology company with a powerful influence across all channels. Our leadership has been at the forefront of digital marketing and communications for over 30 years, pioneering innovative strategies that drive meaningful change in brand performance and business growth.

When you join Avenue Z, you become part of a team that doesn’t just adapt to change but leads it, guiding some of the world’s most influential leaders and brands to new heights. We are driven by a deep passion for our craft and an unwavering commitment to integrity in everything we do. If you share our passion and values, explore our current job openings to see how you can make an impact with us.

About The Role

Avenue Z seeks a strategic, experienced Associate Director to run media and reputation programs for clients. This role owns media relations, messaging, media training, and campaign execution across national and trade outlets. You will lead client work, coach junior staff, and deliver measurable earned-media results.

Responsibilities

Media Relations & Earned Media

• Develop and execute proactive press strategies that win placements in national, trade, and local media.
• Build and maintain media lists and reporter relationships; pitch, follow up, and place stories.
• Draft press releases, media advisories, bylines, Q&As, talking points, and pitch notes.
  
  

Spokesperson Prep & Messaging

• Create clear, audience-focused messaging and key messages for spokespeople.
• Prepare clients for media interviews and public appearances; run media training and mock interviews.
• Advise clients on message discipline across channels.
  
  

Crisis & Reputation

• Lead rapid-response media work during reputational issues and crises; coordinate internal and external stakeholders.
• Produce holding statements, Q&As, and escalation plans.
  
  

Campaign Execution & Measurement

• Plan and manage media campaigns, events, briefings, and press tours.
• Track and report coverage and outcomes; translate results into actionable insights and next steps.
  
  

Client & Team Management

• Serve as primary client contact for day-to-day communications work.
• Lead and mentor junior staff; review work and provide feedback.
  
  

Collaboration

• Work with digital, content, and strategy teams to amplify earned media and ensure consistent messaging.
• Coordinate with paid and owned channels when integrated programs are needed.
  
  

Qualifications

• 5 years of PR experience in an agency or in-house communications role, with a strong focus on media relations.
• Proven success placing stories in national and trade outlets.
• Experience preparing spokespeople and leading media training.
• Experience managing reputation issues or crisis communications.
• Excellent writing, editing, and presentation skills; ability to turn complex topics into clear narratives.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Familiarity with media-monitoring and PR tools.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree a plus.
  
  

Benefits

• Competitive salary range: $95,000 to $115,000 USD.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) plan with employer match.
• Unlimited paid time off
• Professional development budget
• Access to exclusive industry events and high-profile public engagements.