The Living Desert is hiring: Public Relations Manager in Palm Desert
The Living Desert, Palm Desert, CA, United States
Job Type
Full-time
Description
Title: PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER
Department: Marketing & Communications
Exemption: Exempt
Reports to: Vice President of Marketing & Communications
POSITION SUMMARY
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'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 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
Requirements
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.
Salary Description
$80,000.00 - $90,000.00/Yr