Associate Media Relations Director

Walker Sands•Chicago, IL

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

Walker Sands is seeking an experienced national media relations leader to help drive growth for clients and strengthen the agency’s media relations capabilities. The role focuses on securing meaningful national coverage for complex B2B companies by developing proactive earned media strategies, building compelling stories, and personally leading high-impact media outreach. The Associate Media Relations Director will manage and coach Media Relations Managers, advise PR account teams and client stakeholders, contribute to new business opportunities, and help evolve the practice as the media landscape changes. The position collaborates with Social, Content, Paid, and SEO/GEO teams on integrated client programs.

Requirements

At least 7 years of media relations or relevant journalism experience, including direct people-management responsibilities.
Proven success securing Tier 1 national business and technology coverage through proactive outreach, including for complex B2B companies.
Established relationships with national reporters, editors, and producers that can generate meaningful media opportunities.
Experience independently leading complex, high-volume media relations programs with ambitious placement goals.
Experience advising senior marketing and communications stakeholders, managing expectations, and presenting strategic recommendations.
Deep knowledge of at least one B2B industry and its relevant media landscape.
Familiarity with media monitoring and database platforms, as well as emerging AI tools for media research, planning, and analysis.

Nice To Haves

Previous agency experience.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute proactive media strategies that translate complex B2B topics into compelling stories for national business, technology, and broadcast outlets.
Personally lead high-priority media outreach to secure Tier 1 coverage and other meaningful media opportunities.
Identify new story angles, anticipate media trends, and adapt strategies to improve client results.
Provide strategic media counsel and prepare executives for high-value media opportunities.
Directly manage, coach, and develop Media Relations Managers, providing feedback and accountability for performance.
Guide media strategy and execution across multiple client accounts while balancing priorities, resources, and placement goals.
Partner with PR account leads to align media strategy with client objectives, manage expectations, and address challenges.
Share expertise, lead trainings, and develop resources that strengthen the broader Media Relations team.
Develop and present media relations strategies for new business pitches and identify opportunities to expand existing client relationships.
Collaborate with Social, Content, Paid, and SEO/GEO teams to support integrated client programs.
Help evolve the Media Relations practice through emerging channels, AI-driven discovery, and new approaches to building brand visibility.

Benefits

Bonus eligibility based on company performance.
Clear career paths, mentorship programs, and learning events.
Flexible PTO.
Hybrid work.
Eight paid holidays, half-day summer Fridays, and a week off between Christmas and New Year.
Medical, dental, and vision plans.
Mental health resources.
Pet insurance.
Employer-matched 401(k) and access to financial planning services.
Life insurance and disability coverage.
Employee Assistance Program with confidential support for employees and their households, including counseling and mental health resources.
Paid leave for new parents and caregivers, plus policies for fertility treatment, pregnancy loss, and adoption challenges.
Regular performance reviews, clear goal-setting, and ongoing coaching.
Two-week sabbatical and a $2,000 gift after five years.
Employee resource groups, volunteer opportunities, and programs designed to build connection across the agency.