Public Affairs Manager

Department:

Government Affairs & Economic Development

FLSA Status:

Full-time, Non-Exempt (Hourly)

Schedule:

Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm (within business hours)

Pay:

$70,000 annual salary

Reports to:

VP of Government Affairs

Location:

Downtown San Diego, Hybrid

DSDP is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

This position is subject to a background check, pre-employment drug screening, and reference check.

Why this job? - Total Rewards Package

Bi-Weekly Paychecks

Medical Coverage; Dental Coverage; Vision Coverage

Discounted Parking Allotment or MTS Transit Pass

Earn up to 15 days of Paid Vacation annually

5 days of Paid Sick Time annually

401K Plan + Employer Match (eligible after 6 months of employment)

Employee Assistance Program

Position Summary
The Public Affairs Manager plays a key role in advancing Downtown San Diego Partnership’s advocacy, government relations, and public positioning efforts. This position supports policy-focused media relations strategy, strengthens relationships with government agencies, community stakeholders, and media partners, and helps communicate the organization’s policy and advocacy priorities to external audiences. Through strategic communications, civic engagement, and public affairs initiatives, the Public Affairs Manager helps elevate Downtown San Diego Partnership’s voice and drive positive impact throughout Downtown San Diego.

Responsibilities
Media Relations & Public Positioning

Lead media relations strategy and execution to elevate the organization’s visibility and public positioning.

Build and maintain relationships with media outlets, reporters, editors, and other communications partners.

Pitch stories, op-eds, interviews, and thought leadership opportunities that highlight organizational priorities and initiatives.

Coordinate interviews, including preparing briefing materials, talking points, and media preparation for leadership.

Coordinate press conferences, media availabilities, and public-facing media events.

Draft press releases, public statements, media responses, and other external communications materials.

Monitor media coverage and manage rapid response communications related to emerging issues or public concerns.

Align messaging and media strategy with the Marketing & Communications team to amplify advocacy and organizational priorities.

Support executive visibility through speaking opportunities, media features, quotes, and public appearances.

Translate public policy priorities and advocacy efforts into clear, compelling public narratives.

Identify opportunities to elevate the organization’s voice and strengthen its role as a thought leader on downtown issues.

Track, analyze, and report on media coverage, engagement, and communications impact.

Government and Community Partnership

Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with community organizations, nonprofits, government agencies, elected officials, and other stakeholders relevant to downtown San Diego.

Serve as a trusted liaison between the Downtown San Diego Partnership and government staff, community groups, fostering partnerships and collaborations to enhance civic engagement efforts.

Assist in organizing and facilitating community forums, town hall meetings, and events that encourage inclusive dialogue, gather feedback, and promote active citizenship.

Public Relations and Communication

Assist in drafting briefing documents for the Leadership Team in advance of government stakeholder meetings.

Draft policy talking points for internal and external meetings for the senior leadership team.

Draft policy-related social media content and monitor social media channels for related DSDP issues.

Create monthly policy talking points to be distributed across the organization for alignment.

Education and Empowerment

Develop and deliver educational materials, workshops, and training sessions that empower community members, businesses, and stakeholders with the knowledge and tools for effective civic engagement.

Provide guidance and support to individuals and groups seeking to address downtown San Diego’s social, economic, and environmental challenges.

Organize and facilitate leadership development programs and initiatives to cultivate future community leaders who will contribute to the long-term success and sustainability of downtown San Diego.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Public Administration, Urban Studies, Communications, Public Relations, Community Development) or equivalent practical experience.

Proven experience in public affairs, media relations, community organizing, civic engagement, communications, or related fields, preferably in an urban context.

Excellent knowledge of public policy, community development, grassroots advocacy, and strategic communications.

Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders and facilitate productive dialogue.

Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic plans, communications strategies, and advocacy initiatives.

Strong project management skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Experience working with media outlets, drafting public communications materials, and managing external messaging.

Experience in volunteer management, including recruitment, training, and retention.

Familiarity with downtown San Diego’s social, economic, and political landscape is highly desirable.

Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.

Ability to work some evenings and weekends.

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