Marketing & Brand

Public Relations Manager

SOC 11-2032.00 · ESCO 1222 · OSCA 131311

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Role snapshot

Overview

Shapes an organisation's public image by directing media campaigns, writing press releases, managing crisis communications, and building relationships with journalists and stakeholders. This role involves developing and executing strategic communication plans to maintain a positive public perception and effectively respond to external challenges.

Helps organisations build and protect their reputation, fostering trust with the public, media, and stakeholders. Ensures clear, consistent messaging during normal operations and critical situations.

On the job

  • Develop and implement strategic public relations campaigns across various media channels.
  • Write and edit press releases, media advisories, speeches, and other public-facing communications.
  • Manage media relations, including pitching stories, coordinating interviews, and responding to inquiries.
  • Monitor media coverage and public opinion, providing analysis and recommendations.
  • Prepare spokespersons for media appearances and public engagements.
  • Develop and execute crisis communication plans to mitigate reputational risks.
Public Relations Manager at work

Tools & technology

CisionMeltwaterPR NewswireHootsuiteMicrosoft Office Suite

Average salary

$110K
MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD
$75K Bottom 10%
$150K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Typically requires a bachelor's degree in a related field such as Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or Marketing.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Public Relations Manager
Director of Communications

CURRENT ROLE

Public Relations Manager

Marketing & Brand

ADJACENT MOVES

Corporate Communications Manager
Communications Specialist
Public Relations Coordinator
Marketing Specialist

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

E

enterprising · ECS

Individuals who thrive in this role are typically energetic and persuasive communicators, highly organized and detail-oriented, and enjoy building relationships and influencing others. They are strategic thinkers who can manage complex information and adapt to dynamic situations.

Personality characteristics

Engaging

Enjoys interacting with diverse groups, presenting ideas persuasively, and building rapport with media and stakeholders.

Organized

Capable of managing multiple campaigns, deadlines, and communication channels with meticulous planning and execution.

Curious

Interested in current events, media trends, and exploring innovative ways to communicate messages effectively.

Collaborative

Works well with internal teams and external partners, valuing feedback and fostering strong working relationships.

Resilient

Maintains composure and effectiveness under pressure, especially during high-stakes situations like crisis management.

Strategic

Thinks ahead to anticipate public reactions and develop proactive communication strategies that align with organizational goals.

Best for

  • Individuals who are natural communicators, enjoy networking, and excel at crafting compelling messages.
  • Professionals who thrive in dynamic environments and are adept at managing complex situations with composure.
  • Those passionate about reputation management and shaping public narratives for an organization.

Watch out for

  • The job can be fast-paced and require quick responses to breaking news or crises, which might be stressful for some.
  • Requires constant media monitoring and relationship building, which may involve irregular hours or travel.
  • Success often depends on external factors (media receptiveness, public sentiment) that are not always within control.

A week in the life

A representative working week for a Public Relations Manager — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.

8am9am10am11am12pm1pm2pm3pm4pm5pm6pm
Mon
Team strategy meeting
Media outreach & relationship building
Draft press releases & key messages
Campaign planning & content review
Stakeholder check-ins
Tue
Crisis communication scenario planning
Internal communications strategy
Media monitoring & analysis
Social media content review & approval
Networking event prep & industry research
Wed
Daily news scan & trend analysis
Client/internal brief review
Develop PR campaign proposals
Feedback session with content team
Respond to media inquiries & interviews
Thu
Journalist pitching & follow-up
Event logistics & coordination
Campaign performance reporting & analysis
Strategic communications planning
Fri
Review week's media coverage
Professional development / industry webinars
Team debrief & planning for next week
Administrative tasks & email management
Deep work Meeting External Social Admin

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