Director of Public Relations

Director Austin, TX Full-time/Direct Hire Position Job Location This position is on-site. The Company We have been engaged by a leading Austin-based strategic communications firm specializing in public relations, public affairs, issue management campaigns and stakeholder engagement. They are seeking an experienced, energetic and motivated team player to join their top-flight team of fifteen people. They value people who will rise to a challenge with confidence, demonstrate initiative, and seek the sophistication of a large agency in a small environment setting. Duties and Responsibilities ● Serve as a lead project manager who determines the overarching strategy for key accounts and oversees day-to-day team activities. ● Engage a variety of account teams and set a standard of excellence. ● Mentor and lead other account team members through industry experience and a desire to teach. ● Demonstrate a high level of initiative and desire to learn in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Bring a proactive, solutions-oriented approach to account needs and opportunities. ● Develop and assist in the execution of complex strategic communication campaigns. Managing multiple high impact client accounts concurrently is commonplace. ● Manage complex interactions with the media. Build and maintain relationships with key reporters related to client issue. ● Familiarity with and outreach to grassroots and grass-tops constituencies and coordination of advocacy activities. ● Play a significant role in sourcing new business and client relationships. Preferred Qualifications ● Demonstrated experience leading major strategic communications campaigns for large corporations. ● The ability to anticipate “what comes next” and see around corners for clients on expected outcomes. ● Familiarity with the Texas political and policy landscape and high-profile state and federal issues. ● Minimum 15 years of public relations, public affairs, campaign or strategic communications experience. ● Exceptional writing skills and the ability to demonstrate this during the interview process. ● Unique ability to think outside the box and create compelling narratives and innovative strategies to find success for the client. ● Attention to detail and ability to manage several projects simultaneously. ● Understanding of Texas stakeholders in politics, business and industry, trade associations, nonprofits and advocacy groups. ● Candidates must be confident interacting with clients and providing communications counsel. ● Bachelor’s Degree in a related field. ● Knowledge of public relations tools like Meltwater, MuckRack, Cision and TVEyes. Experience in graphic design, social media, digital advertising and SEO to be viewed favorably. Pay and Benefits Summary Compensation and benefits package will be commensurate with experience.