Public Relations Manager

Overview

Title: PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER

Department: Marketing & Communications

Exemption: Exempt

Reports to: Vice President of Marketing & Communications

The Living Desert seeks a strategic and creative Public Relations Manager to serve as the organization's primary media contact and public-facing communications expert. This role is essential in amplifying our conservation mission through compelling storytelling, securing meaningful media coverage, and protecting our reputation as a leader in desert conservation and animal care.

Reporting to the Vice President of Marketing and Communications, you will develop and execute comprehensive publicity strategies that position The Living Desert as a premier destination and conservation leader. You' kidding? You will cultivate relationships with local, regional, and national media, pitch compelling stories, manage crisis communications, and ensure our conservation achievements and guest experiences receive the visibility they deserve.

This role requires a skilled communicator who can translate complex conservation science into newsworthy stories, respond quickly to media opportunities, and represent The Living Desert with professionalism and strategic thinking.

• Serve as primary media contact for all press inquiries and interview requests
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, and national media contacts
• Pitch feature stories, conservation news, and organizational milestones to appropriate media outlets
• Secure media coverage for major events including Gala, Wild Lights, Mission:
  Pollination!, new exhibits, animal arrivals, and conservation achievements
• Proactively identify and leverage local community events and festivals to drive additional media coverage
• Coordinate interview opportunities for executive leadership and subject matter experts
• Arrange and support on-site media visits, filming, and photography
• Plan and facilitate media events

Press Materials & Distribution

• Write, edit, and distribute press releases for events, announcements, and newsworthy developments
• Develop media kits, fact sheets, and press materials
• Maintain and update media contact database
• Coordinate press events, media days, and press conferences

Publicity Campaign Development

• Create strategic publicity plans for events, exhibits, programs, and organizational initiatives
• Identify newsworthy angles and story opportunities aligned with organizational priorities
• Develop targeted media outreach strategies for different audience segments
• Collaborate with marketing team on integrated communications campaigns
• Measure publicity efforts and report on media coverage metrics

Crisis Communications

• Serve as lead crisis communications contact during emergencies or sensitive situations
• Develop crisis communication plans and holding statements for potential scenarios
• Coordinate with executive leadership during crisis situations
• Manage media inquiries and public response during challenging circumstances
• Monitor potential issues and provide strategic counsel on communications approach

Online Reputation Management

• Monitor online mentions, reviews, social media commentary, and media coverage
• Track and respond to media inquiries across digital platforms
• Coordinate responses to negative publicity, misinformation, or reputational concerns
• Compile regular reports on media coverage, sentiment, and share of voice
• Identify and capitalize on positive publicity opportunities, as well as trending topics and emerging stories to develop relevant content

Strategic Communications

• Support conservation messaging and thought leadership positioning
• Align PR efforts with marketing priorities and organizational goals
• Advise leadership on communications strategy and media opportunities
• Collaborate with Development on publicity for major gifts and capital campaigns
• Partner with Conservation team to elevate scientific work and field achievements

Stakeholder Communication Support

• Develop talking points and key messages for leadership and spokespeople
• Brief and prepare staff for media interviews
• Create internal communications regarding media coverage and external recognition
• Support board and donor communications as needed

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or related field
• 7-10 years of progressive public relations experience, preferably in nonprofit, cultural, or mission-driven organizations
• Proven track record of securing media coverage in local, regional, and national outlets
• Exceptional writing and editing skills with ability to craft compelling press materials
• Strong media relations skills and established media contacts (preferably in Southern California/Coachella Valley)
• Crisis communications experience with ability to respond quickly under pressure
• Strategic thinker with excellent judgment and discretion
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse stakeholders
• Highly organized with ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

Preferred:

• Experience in…