Media Relations Manager

Overview

The CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.) is seeking a dynamic, media-savvy Public Relations/Media Relations Manager to help shape and share the Association’s voice on key housing, policy, and industry issues. Reporting to the Public Relations Director, this position plays a central role in advancing C.A.R.’s mission to champion home ownership and real estate professionalism by developing, executing and managing strategic communications that reach influential media, policymakers, and the public.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, brings strong writing and storytelling skills, and has a proven ability to secure earned media that drives impact.

• Job Title:
  
  Media Relations Manager
• Reports To:
  
  Public Relations Director
• Group:
  Communications and Marketing
• Compensation Range: $130,000 to $140,000 annually
• FLSA Status:
  Exempt
• Benefits:
  Competitive benefits package including health, dental, vision, retirement plan, PTO, and more

• Develop, execute and manage communication strategies that advance C.A.R.’s mission and initiatives, including preparing press releases, op-eds, speeches, fact sheets, talking points, and other materials as needed.
• Secure earned media coverage for C.A.R.’s key initiatives and identify emerging opportunities to elevate the Association’s visibility with external audiences.
• Monitor and analyze news coverage for stories impacting the real estate industry or referencing C.A.R. and produce monthly media reports and analysis.
• Manage media inquiries, prepare spokespersons, and develop key messaging as needed.
• Collaborate with internal teams to secure media coverage for C.A.R. initiatives, advocacy efforts, products, and services.
• React and respond quickly to breaking news or industry developments with timely statements, commentaries, or opinion pieces as appropriate.
• Provide PR and media support for the Association’s Thought Leadership program, including drafting and pitching stories to journalists and media outlets.
• Cultivate, maintain and manage strong relationships with media contacts across traditional, digital, podcast, and emerging platforms.
• Stay informed on media trends and emerging topics to proactively position C.A.R. within the evolving news cycle.

• Experience:
  
  5+ years in public relations, media relations, journalism, or a related communications role.
• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Public Affairs, or a related field.
• Communication
  
  Skills:
  
  Exceptional writer and communicator with the ability to develop compelling stories and deliver clear, consistent messaging across multiple platforms.
• Media Relations Expertise:
  Proven ability to secure positive earned media coverage and maintain strong press relationships.
• Project Management:
  Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines.
• Collaboration:
  
  Team-oriented, creative, and resourceful communicator who works well across departments and with leadership.
• Technical Proficiency:
  Skilled in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook) and familiar with media monitoring and PR tools.

• Industry Knowledge:
  Background or interest in real estate, housing policy, political advocacy, or financial services is a plus.

EEO notice: C.A.R. is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any other characteristic protected by applicable law.