Public Relations Manager

Position Summary: The Public Relations Manager of the Animal Rescue Foundation is responsible for creating and maintaining a vibrant and inviting public image while promoting our programs, initiatives, and campaigns. You will play a critical role in building and maintaining strong relationships with various stakeholders, including media and the public. Your goal is to increase awareness, support, and engagement for the organization's efforts and national brand. This position requires a blend of strategic thinking, creativity, and a deep commitment to the cause.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Public Relations Strategy:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive PR strategy that aligns with Advancement leadership goals and objectives.
• Create PR campaigns to raise awareness about the Animal Rescue Foundation and our programs.

2. Media Relations:

• Cultivate relationships with local and national media outlets.
• Write and distribute press releases, media advisories, and other materials to secure media coverage.
• Act as the primary media contact for the organization and coordinate interviews and media appearances for ARF's leadership team and brand ambassadors.

3. Content Creation:

• Produce and develop compelling content, including articles, blog posts, videos, and social media updates, that showcase the organization's work and impact.
• Robust story development for use in all ARF communication efforts. Lead weekly meetings with key program directors to gather mission-related stories.

4. National Expansion Strategy:

• Collaborate with Advancement leadership to develop a strategy for expanding its reach and impact from a regional presence to a national level.

5. Crisis Management:

• Prepare and implement crisis communication plans to address any negative publicity or emergencies related to the organization or our mission.

6. Stakeholder Engagement:

• In collaboration with the Director of Marketing and Communications, cultivate relationships with brand ambassadors and ARF partners to promote the organization's work and foster ongoing support.
• Engage with the public and respond to inquiries and comments on social media and other communication channels.

7. Event Coordination:

• Plan and execute public events, press conferences, and outreach activities to promote the organization's initiatives and campaigns.

8. Public Awareness Campaigns:

• Develop and manage public awareness campaigns, including fundraising drives, adoption events, and other programs.
• Measure and analyze the impact of campaigns using key performance indicators (KPIs).

9. Reporting and Analytics:

• Track and analyze media coverage and social media metrics to assess the effectiveness of ARF's PR efforts.
• Generate reports to demonstrate the impact of PR initiatives to the organization's leadership.

10. Leadership:

• Manage external PR firms or consultants as needed

Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, communications, marketing, or a related field.
Five-plus years of proven experience in Public Relations, preferably within the nonprofit or animal welfare sector.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Knowledge of animal welfare issues and enthusiasm for the human-animal bond; concern for the welfare of people and animals; comfort with animals in the workplace.
Excellent organizational and project management skills.
Proficiency in using PR and communication tools and platforms.
Ability to work well under pressure and handle crisis situations with tact and professionalism.
Strong networking and relationship-building skills.
Advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging as part of an organization's core mission.
Professional demeanor and an ability to bring joy to your work environment.
A valid California Driver's License.

Pre-employment background check screening required.

Physical/Environmental Requirements:
Work environment includes constant exposure to animals and animal allergens.
Push/pull/lift 25 pounds and do physical work relative to setting up and breaking down event sites (packing/shipping supplies for off-site events, loading/unloading trucks, moving tables & chairs, etc.). Kneel, bend, stoop, squat, reach above and below shoulder level, grasp and turn objects, stand, and/or walk frequently and repetitively before, during, and after events. Flex the neck upward and downward; twist the neck and the waist. Sit for long periods of time while using a computer.
Drive an automobile.

Hours:
Exempt position requires a minimum of 40 hours per week. Daily reporting hours and days of the week may vary. Weekend, holiday, and evening work required, as well as occasional travel via car and plane. Hybrid workplace option available.