Public Relations Manager at LIVING DESERT DBA THE LIVING DESERT

Palm Desert, California, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

22 Apr, 26

Salary

0.0

Posted On

22 Jan, 26

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Public Relations, Media Relations, Crisis Communications, Strategic Thinking, Writing, Editing, Interpersonal Skills, Project Management, Storytelling, Social Media, Communication Strategy, Press Materials, Event Coordination, Online Reputation Management, Conservation Messaging, Stakeholder Communication

Industry

Museums;Historical Sites;and Zoos

Description

Description Title: PUBLIC RELATIONS MANAGER Department: Marketing & Communications Exemption: Exempt Reports to: Vice President of Marketing & Communications POSITION SUMMARY The Living Desert seeks a strategic and creative Public Relations Manager to serve as the organization's primary media contact and public-facing communications expert. This role is essential in amplifying our conservation mission through compelling storytelling, securing meaningful media coverage, and protecting our reputation as a leader in desert conservation and animal care. Reporting to the Vice President of Marketing and Communications, you will develop and execute comprehensive publicity strategies that position The Living Desert as a premier destination and conservation leader. You'll cultivate relationships with local, regional, and national media, pitch compelling stories, manage crisis communications, and ensure our conservation achievements and guest experiences receive the visibility they deserve. This role requires a skilled communicator who can translate complex conservation science into newsworthy stories, respond quickly to media opportunities, and represent The Living Desert with professionalism and strategic thinking. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Media Relations Serve as primary media contact for all press inquiries and interview requests Develop and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, and national media contacts Pitch feature stories, conservation news, and organizational milestones to appropriate media outlets Secure media coverage for major events including Gala, WildLights, Mission: Pollination!, new exhibits, animal arrivals, and conservation achievements Proactively identify and leverage local community events and festivals to drive additional media coverage Coordinate interview opportunities for executive leadership and subject matter experts Arrange and support on-site media visits, filming, and photography Plan and facilitate media events Press Materials & Distribution Write, edit, and distribute press releases for events, announcements, and newsworthy developments Develop media kits, fact sheets, and press materials Maintain and update media contact database Coordinate press events, media days, and press conferences Publicity Campaign Development Create strategic publicity plans for events, exhibits, programs, and organizational initiatives Identify newsworthy angles and story opportunities aligned with organizational priorities Develop targeted media outreach strategies for different audience segments Collaborate with marketing team on integrated communications campaigns Measure publicity efforts and report on media coverage metrics Crisis Communications Serve as lead crisis communications contact during emergencies or sensitive situations Develop crisis communication plans and holding statements for potential scenarios Coordinate with executive leadership during crisis situations Manage media inquiries and public response during challenging circumstances Monitor potential issues and provide strategic counsel on communications approach Online Reputation Management Monitor online mentions, reviews, social media commentary, and media coverage Track and respond to media inquiries across digital platforms Coordinate responses to negative publicity, misinformation, or reputational concerns Compile regular reports on media coverage, sentiment, and share of voice Identify and capitalize on positive publicity opportunities, as well as trending topics and emerging stories to develop relevant content Strategic Communications Support conservation messaging and thought leadership positioning Align PR efforts with marketing priorities and organizational goals Advise leadership on communications strategy and media opportunities Collaborate with Development on publicity for major gifts and capital campaigns Partner with Conservation team to elevate scientific work and field achievements Stakeholder Communication Support Develop talking points and key messages for leadership and spokespeople Brief and prepare staff for media interviews Create internal communications regarding media coverage and external recognition Support board and donor communications as needed Requirements QUALIFICATIONS Required: Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or related field 7-10 years of progressive public relations experience, preferably in nonprofit, cultural, or mission-driven organizations Proven track record of securing media coverage in local, regional, and national outlets Exceptional writing and editing skills with ability to craft compelling press materials Strong media relations skills and established media contacts (preferably in Southern California/Coachella Valley) Crisis communications experience with ability to respond quickly under pressure Strategic thinker with excellent judgment and discretion Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse stakeholders Highly organized with ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously Preferred: Experience in zoological institutions, aquariums, museums, or conservation organizations Familiarity with AZA-accredited institutions and conservation sector Background in science communication or environmental journalism Experience with tourism, destination marketing, or visitor attraction publicity Bilingual (Spanish/English) strongly preferred TECHNICAL SKILLS Proficiency with media databases, media monitoring tools and PR software (Cision, Meltwater, or similar) Knowledge and understanding of video/photo asset management Strong social media platform knowledge for monitoring and engagement Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite Familiarity with AP Style Physical Position Description: ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL TASKS: Occasional standing, walking, bending, twisting, some lifting up to 50 lbs. Safely operating print and production machinery. TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS: Primarily an office environment, occasionally on-grounds. HOLIDAY/EVENING WORK: Occasional Holiday, weekend, and evening work. TRAVEL: Occasional travel to vendors and suppliers. Licenses and/or Certificates: Must hold valid California Driver License and be insurable on The Living Desert’s auto policy.

Responsibilities

The Public Relations Manager will serve as the primary media contact and develop comprehensive publicity strategies to enhance The Living Desert's conservation mission. Responsibilities include media relations, crisis communications, and managing public visibility of conservation achievements.