Public Relations Strategist

A PR Strategist supports a range of reputation-building initiatives, with media relations serving as the core focus of the role. Possessing a strong journalistic foundation, this professional is responsible for identifying newsworthy story angles, developing targeted pitches, crafting compelling press releases and securing coverage at the local, national and industry levels.

The PR Strategist also supports complementary strategies that strengthen client visibility, credibility and thought leadership, including awards, speaking opportunities, community relations and select strategic communications initiatives. They work with a range of B2B and B2C accounts, adapting their approach to each client rather than relying on a template. They collaborate closely with senior PR leaders, account managers and copywriters to execute comprehensive plans and meet campaign objectives.

Success in this role will be measured primarily by media placements secured and relationships built with journalists, along with the ability to identify and execute meaningful opportunities across the broader PR program.

Position Requirements
The ideal candidate will demonstrate a successful track record of securing meaningful media coverage at the local, industry and national levels. They should have established media relationships and an eagerness to build new connections in alignment with client needs. Experience supporting awards, speaking opportunities, community relations or strategic communications is also preferred, along with the curiosity and judgment to identify opportunities that advance broader client objectives.

This professional must be able to manage multiple accounts and projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines, maintaining accuracy and adapting to shifting priorities. They should be comfortable working within plans developed by senior PR leaders while contributing thoughtful recommendations that strengthen strategies, deliverables and internal processes.

A “can do” attitude is essential, coupled with an understanding that all tasks, no matter how fundamental, contribute to the overall success of a campaign. We take pride in our work at all levels and encourage everyone to bring fresh ideas to the table.

5+ years professional experience in PR, marketing, communications or journalism

2+ years media relations experience at a PR agency

Bachelor’s degree in PR, marketing, communications, journalism or related field

Proficient in AP Style

Proficient with Cision and/or Muck Rack for media list development and research

Proficient with media query services for pitching stories

Experience with CoverageBook and Critical Mention is a bonus

Highly punctual and deadline driven

Takes a proactive role in professional development

Driven to grow, seek out learning opportunities and bring fresh ideas to the table

Must have your own computer (relevant software and subscriptions provided)

Key Responsibilities
Duties include, but are not limited to:

Media Relations

Build and maintain targeted media lists using media databases and online research

Execute traditional media outreach aligned with clients’ goals, which includes: Identifying creative and relevant story ideas, developing targeted pitches for an array of business objectives, researching media targets for exclusive coverage and monitoring news cycles, industry developments and emerging trends to identify timely opportunities

Contribute to press release development

Oversee the distribution of press releases, understanding the nuances between direct media distributions and newswires

Oversee media interviews and offer sources guidance, as directed by senior leadership

Oversee media monitoring and reporting efforts

Foster and maintain relationships with journalists

Research and evaluate award programs, rankings, speaking opportunities, conferences and other third-party recognition opportunities aligned with client goals

Maintain calendars of relevant deadlines, requirements and submission dates

Coordinate the information-gathering process for nominations, applications and speaker submissions

Contribute to the development of compelling, accurate submissions that effectively position clients and their subject‑matter experts

Track submission outcomes and identify opportunities to promote resulting recognition or engagements

Community Relations

Research community involvement opportunities that align with clients’ industries, audiences, values and business objectives

Support outreach to business, industry, civic and nonprofit organizations

Assist with initiatives that strengthen clients’ relationships and visibility within the communities they serve

Coordinate community relations activities and related communications, as directed by senior leadership

Daily Operations

Ensure all deliverables are accurate and on time

Attend and participate in client meetings virtually or in person, as needed

Collaborate with senior PR leaders, account managers, copywriters and other team members to execute integrated client plans

Support the development of talking points, key messages, FAQs and other strategic communications materials, as directed by senior leadership

Maintain organized, current records of outreach, opportunities, deadlines and results

Communicate proactively about progress, priorities, challenges and upcoming deadlines

Complete other account services tasks, as assigned by senior leadership

401(k) with company match

Health insurance

Vision insurance

Short/long-term disability

Life insurance

Paid parental leave

Reimbursement/fees covered for industry association memberships and events

Environment and culture that supports physical and mental wellness

Aker Ink Core Values

Fanatical Excellence:

An intense dedication to exceeding expectations and producing the highest quality work.

Own It, Solve It:

Accountable to ourselves, our team and our clients. As problems arise, proactively solve them for the betterment of all parties.

Continuous Improvement:

Dedicating time to build connections and skills will lead to personal and professional growth. Value new and creative ways of thinking and executing.

Positive Can-Do Attitude:

In the face of both opportunities and challenges, creativity and enthusiasm ensure the most successful outcomes.

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