Assistant Director, Public Relations

This position has been filled - Job#: 453365898

Job Summary

ROLE

The Assistant Director of Public Relations will develop and implement a broad range of communications strategies and activities that focus on generating compelling stories and narratives that deliver a positive impact to the organization’s brand and business performance. Reporting to the Vice President of Communications, the role is responsible for building successful national and local PR programs, providing communications counsel to senior leadership on public relations issues and opportunities, and managing daily interactions with reporters and editors related to non-baseball and business communications.

This individual also will be a key contributor to the Integrated Marketing Communications team to provide consistent messaging and engaging content across various channels and platforms.     

Success in this position requires strong, effective influencing skills, the ability to gain consensus and manage multiple projects across the organization. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Brainstorm, pitch and secure media opportunities, editorials, op-ed placements, influencer meetings and events through traditional and digital media channels
• Assist the Vice President of Communications with crafting annual story boards and angles that achieve strategic communications objectives and outcomes established by Business Operations leadership
• Serve as editor for communications materials, including news releases, media advisories, holding statements, pitch notes, key messages, fact sheets, by-lined articles, website content and partner announcements
• Build and foster collaborative relationships with other departments within the organization to stay informed of new initiatives, assets and opportunities
• Build and foster positive working relationships with national, regional, local and trade media
• Facilitate and staff media interviews with Business Operations leadership and prepare appropriate briefing materials
• Counsel business leaders on issues and perceptions to prevent harm to brand
• Lead PR planning with Sales, Partnerships and Marketing to develop stories and messaging in advance of campaigns, promotions and events occurring throughout the year
• Collaborate with Marketing in support of the development and execution of the organization’s content strategy
• Coordinate announcements and messaging related to food, beverage and retail offerings with concessions partners
• Supervise and team with the Manager of Public Relations, as well as manage the relationship with several external vendors (PR, design, production and news tracking agencies) to maximize the value and effectiveness of our internal staff and external partners
• Assist with the development of communications materials to support various annual team events, award nominations, and miscellaneous projects
• Provide media and message training to members of senior leadership
• Direct communications planning with Community Affairs to develop strategies that maximize the awareness of Cubs efforts in the community

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• A 4-year undergraduate degree from an accredited institution in Communications or Journalism
• At least 5-7 years of experience as a public relations manager in a corporate or public affairs function
• Superior writing and verbal communications skills, including experience in writing, editing and proofreading clear and compelling content
• Demonstrated news gathering skills and ability to research and develop creative, compelling stories
• Experience working with and influencing senior leaders and business partners by providing guidance and direction on communications activities
• Thorough knowledge of digital and alternative media, including online magazines, bloggers and podcasts
• Experience using social media as a means to drive narratives, news cycles and strategic messaging
• Demonstrated ability to ensure accuracy by checking reference materials such as periodicals, Lexus-Nexus, or public record to obtain relevant facts
• Demonstrated knowledge of AP style
• Demonstrated experience with Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint

IDEAL QUALIFICATIONS

• Excellent knowledge about brand public relations
• Results driven with ability to set and deliver on priorities
• High level of poise and professionalism
• Outstanding interpersonal, relationship building and coaching skills both within and outside the organization
• Excellent presentation skills
• Ability to coach and mentor others to succeed
• Demonstrated ability to work flexibly and handle ambiguity
• Ability to work under pressure and prioritize workload
• Strong work ethic and ability to work non-standard hours, including nights, weekends, & holidays