Public Relations Manager

Job Type Full-timeDescriptionTitle: PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGERDepartment: Marketing & CommunicationsExemption: Exempt Reports to: Vice President of Marketing & CommunicationsPOSITION SUMMARYThe 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'll 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.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESMedia RelationsServe as primary media contact for all press inquiries and interview requestsDevelop and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, and national media contactsPitch feature stories, conservation news, and organizational milestones to appropriate media outletsSecure media coverage for major events including Gala, WildLights, Mission: Pollination!, new exhibits, animal arrivals, and conservation achievementsProactively identify and leverage local community events and festivals to drive additional media coverageCoordinate interview opportunities for executive leadership and subject matter expertsArrange and support on-site media visits, filming, and photographyPlan and facilitate media eventsPress Materials & DistributionWrite, edit, and distribute press releases for events, announcements, and newsworthy developmentsDevelop media kits, fact sheets, and press materialsMaintain and update media contact databaseCoordinate press events, media days, and press conferencesPublicity Campaign DevelopmentCreate strategic publicity plans for events, exhibits, programs, and organizational initiativesIdentify newsworthy angles and story opportunities aligned with organizational prioritiesDevelop targeted media outreach strategies for different audience segmentsCollaborate with marketing team on integrated communications campaignsMeasure publicity efforts and report on media coverage metricsCrisis CommunicationsServe as lead crisis communications contact during emergencies or sensitive situationsDevelop crisis communication plans and holding statements for potential scenariosCoordinate with executive leadership during crisis situationsManage media inquiries and public response during challenging circumstancesMonitor potential issues and provide strategic counsel on communications approachOnline Reputation ManagementMonitor online mentions, reviews, social media commentary, and media coverageTrack and respond to media inquiries across digital platformsCoordinate responses to negative publicity, misinformation, or reputational concernsCompile regular reports on media coverage, sentiment, and share of voiceIdentify and capitalize on positive publicity opportunities, as well as trending topics and emerging stories to develop relevant contentStrategic CommunicationsSupport conservation messaging and thought leadership positioningAlign PR efforts with marketing priorities and organizational goalsAdvise leadership on communications strategy and media opportunitiesCollaborate with Development on publicity for major gifts and capital campaignsPartner with Conservation team to elevate scientific work and field achievementsStakeholder Communication SupportDevelop talking points and key messages for leadership and spokespeopleBrief and prepare staff for media interviewsCreate internal communications regarding media coverage and external recognitionSupport board and donor communications as neededRequirementsQUALIFICATIONSRequired:Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or related field7-10 years of progressive public relations experience, preferably in nonprofit, cultural, or mission-driven organizationsProven track record of securing media coverage in local, regional, and national outletsExceptional writing and editing skills with ability to craft compelling press materialsStrong media relations skills and established media contacts (preferably in Southern California/Coachella Valley)Crisis communications experience with ability to respond quickly under pressureStrategic thinker with excellent judgment and discretionStrong interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse stakeholdersHighly organized with ability to manage multiple projects simultaneouslyPreferred:Experience in zoological institutions, aquariums, museums, or conservation organizationsFamiliarity with AZA-accredited institutions and conservation sectorBackground in science communication or environmental journalismExperience with tourism, destination marketing, or visitor attraction publicityBilingual (Spanish/English) strongly preferredTECHNICAL SKILLSProficiency with media databases, media monitoring tools and PR software (Cision, Meltwater, or similar)Knowledge and understanding of video/photo asset managementStrong social media platform knowledge for monitoring and engagementProficient in Microsoft Office SuiteFamiliarity with AP StylePhysical Position Description:ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL TASKS: Occasional standing, walking, bending, twisting, some lifting up to 50 lbs. Safely operating print and production machinery.TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS: Primarily an office environment, occasionally on-grounds.HOLIDAY/EVENING WORK: Occasional Holiday, weekend, and evening work.TRAVEL: Occasional travel to vendors and suppliers. Licenses and/or Certificates:Must hold valid California Driver License and be insurable on The Living Desert's auto policy.Salary Description $80,000.00 - $90,000.00/Yr

Created: 2026-04-02