The Public Relations Manager is a senior communications professional responsible for building and protecting an organisation's reputation. This role leads media relations, crafts strategic narratives and manages stakeholder engagement across channels. The successful candidate will combine strategic thinking with hands-on media management, working closely with senior leaders to shape public perception and support business objectives.
Public Relations Manager Job Profile
The Public Relations Manager designs and implements communications strategies that promote positive coverage and reinforce brand values. They act as the principal media contact and oversee the creation of press materials, case studies and thought leadership content.
Reporting to the Head of Communications or Marketing Director, the role requires excellent interpersonal skills, media savvy and a clear grasp of organisational priorities. The manager will mentor junior staff and coordinate with agencies and external partners.
Public Relations Manager Job Description
The Public Relations Manager is accountable for developing integrated PR programmes that enhance reputation, support product launches, and respond to external developments. They will plan campaigns, secure media coverage in national and trade outlets, and measure impact through defined metrics. A commercial mindset helps ensure PR activity aligns with broader marketing and business goals.
In this role, you will cultivate relationships with journalists, influencers and sector commentators, draft and approve press releases, brief spokespeople, and prepare media training. You will also manage proactive storytelling across owned channels, including corporate websites and social media, ensuring consistent tone and messaging.
The role requires overseeing crisis communications and rapid response plans, advising senior leaders on reputational risk and coordinating cross-functional teams in high-pressure situations. Regular reporting to stakeholders and adapting strategies based on performance data are essential duties.
Public Relations Manager Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop and execute PR strategies to support organisational objectives and campaigns.
- Act as primary media liaison, build relationships with journalists and secure positive coverage.
- Draft, edit and approve press releases, statements, articles and briefing notes.
- Coordinate press conferences, media briefings and interview schedules for spokespeople.
- Manage reactive and proactive communications during issues and crises, including drafting holding statements.
- Plan and deliver media training and messaging workshops for senior leaders and subject matter experts.
- Oversee content development for owned channels and ensure consistent messaging across teams.
- Commission and manage external agencies or freelance consultants as required.
- Monitor media coverage, analyse sentiment and produce regular reports on PR performance.
- Manage budgets for PR activities and ensure value for money in agency spend and events.
Public Relations Manager Requirements and Qualifications
- Degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing or related discipline.
- Proven experience of at least five years in PR or corporate communications, preferably in a senior role.
- Demonstrable track record securing coverage in national and trade media.
- Strong writing, editing and proofing skills with attention to tone and accuracy.
- Experience in crisis communications and issues management.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to influence senior stakeholders.
- Knowledge of media monitoring tools and analytics, and ability to report on KPIs.
- Comfortable leading teams and managing external agencies and suppliers.
- Ability to work to tight deadlines and prioritise competing demands.
- Familiarity with social media channels, digital PR and content amplification techniques.
