The Public Relations Manager, U.S., is a key member of the Communications team. This role is responsible for overseeing all media and publicity-focused activities for the BlinkNow Foundation. This includes the management of speaking events, inbound media inquiries, and press outreach to publicize foundation news. This also includes pursuing other external outreach opportunities, such as honors and awards, as identified by BlinkNow.
Reporting to the Communications Director, the PR Manager works closely with the U.S. staff and Nepal staff to keep abreast of news and activities that can be used for press. The goal is to engage with our current community and to attract new followers, donors, and interest amongst the general public. This is an important position that is responsible for guiding and influencing public perception of the CEO and the BlinkNow Foundation. The PR Manager acts as the liaison between the CEO, BlinkNow, and the general public. It is the responsibility of the PR Manager to work with other team members to act proactively and strategize about how to represent the organization in the best light.
Roles & Responsibilities include:
- Identify press and speaking opportunities that can positively impact the public perception of BlinkNow and our leadership team.
- Manage inbound press requests. Weigh the benefits of each request and recommend high-priority opportunities.
- Proactively identify and seek out media placements that will gain visibility for BlinkNow.
- Produce timely media pitches as relevant moments within our programs occur.
- Maintain regular contact with media through scheduled (quarterly) outreach.
- Oversee press logistics and serve as the main point person for all PR communications. This includes:
- Schedule and prioritize, consulting with CEO’s calendar to avoid overscheduling.
- Assist in preparing talking points prior to the interview or speaking event.
- Seek award opportunities for BlinkNow and serve as the primary point of contact for award applications, assigning tasks to the program teams for completion of submission, as needed.
- Draft op-ed, LTO, press releases, and media pieces on behalf of BlinkNow and CEO.
- Coordinate with External Relations Coordinator, Nepal, and provide guidance as needed as they seek press opportunities within Nepal.
- Work with Communications Director to implement calendar of press outreach.
- Communicate with other teams to help them identify the best way to highlight their accomplishments in the press and social media content, helping raise the collective voice of BlinkNow as thought leaders in international education, development, and empowerment programs.
Qualifications
- 2 years of experience in a similar role.
- Associate or Bachelors's degree in communications, marketing, media, journalism, or a related field.
- Fluent in English.
Required Skills
- Ability to build and maintain relationships with press and media contacts.
- Understanding of press cycle and media pitching.
- Experience with media tracking services, such as Meltwater or Cision, preferred.
- Excellent written and verbal skills a must.