Associate Media Relations Director

Walker Sands•Chicago, IL

1d•$85,000 - $106,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Walker Sands is hiring an Associate Media Relations Director to help grow its integrated B2B marketing agency and strengthen its national media relations capabilities. The role focuses on securing meaningful coverage for complex B2B companies through established relationships with national business and technology journalists and a record of earning Tier 1 media opportunities. This is a hands-on leadership position: the director personally drives high-impact media opportunities, develops and executes proactive earned-media strategies, and manages and coaches Media Relations Managers. The role also partners with PR account teams, contributes to new business opportunities, collaborates with other agency disciplines, and helps evolve the Media Relations practice as the media landscape changes.

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 performance feedback and accountability.
Guide media strategy and execution across multiple client accounts, 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 to 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.
Growth opportunities, including clear career paths, mentorship programs, and learning events.
Flexible PTO, eight paid holidays, half-day summer Fridays, and a week off between Christmas and New Year.
Hybrid work.
Comprehensive 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.
Paid leave for new parents and caregivers, plus policies supporting fertility treatment, pregnancy loss, and adoption challenges.
Regular performance reviews, goal-setting, and ongoing coaching.
A two-week sabbatical and a $2,000 gift after five years.
Employee resource groups and volunteer opportunities.