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.

Key Responsibilities Media Relations

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, WildLights, 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

Qualifications 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 zoological institutions, aquariums, museums, or conservation organizations

Familiarity with AZA-accredited institutions and conservation sector

Background in science communication or environmental journalism

Experience with tourism, destination marketing, or visitor attraction publicity

Bilingual (Spanish/English) strongly preferred

Technical Skills

Proficiency with media databases, media monitoring tools and PR software (Cision, Meltwater, or similar)

Knowledge and understanding of video/photo asset management

Strong social media platform knowledge for monitoring and engagement

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite

Familiarity with AP Style

Physical 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.

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