Associate PR Director

Walker Sands • Chicago, IL

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

We believe great work happens when everyone feels welcome, supported, and empowered to contribute.
We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, parents, and people with disabilities to apply. As an equal opportunity employer, Walker Sands is committed to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. Please feel free to share your pronouns in your application. If you need reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, we’re here to help.
Walker Sands is seeking a seasoned, strategic, and tech‑savvy Associate PR Director to join our growing team.
This role is for someone who thrives at the intersection of storytelling, technology, and business strategy. Our clients span Fortune 500 enterprises, high‑growth startups, and category‑defining innovators across IT, cybersecurity, data, AI, and other complex technology sectors.
As an Associate PR Director, you will lead PR programs end‑to-end — from high‑level strategy through flawless execution — and do so with confidence, clarity, and authority in front of clients. You’ll shape narratives around some of the most transformative technologies in the market, build influential media relationships, and guide integrated programs that elevate brand awareness, credibility, and reputation.
You’ll also serve as a leader within the agency, mentoring teams, strengthening processes, and helping shape the future of our B2B tech practice.

Requirements

• 6+ years of B2B PR agency experience, with experience in IT, cybersecurity, data, and/or AI industries
• Proven ability to lead PR programs confidently from strategy through execution.
• Strong track record of advising senior‑level clients and managing complex, high‑stakes programs.
• Deep media expertise and the ability to craft compelling narratives around technical topics.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and messaging development skills.
• Experience managing and mentoring teams within an agency environment.
• Strategic mindset with the ability to connect communications programs to broader business goals.

Responsibilities

• Own the development of sophisticated PR strategies for B2B tech clients, especially in industries like IT, cybersecurity, data, and AI.
• Confidently lead clients through strategic recommendations, program planning, and decision‑making.
• Translate business goals and technical concepts into compelling, differentiated narratives.
• Oversee PR programs from strategy through execution, ensuring excellence at every stage.
• Guide teams in delivering high‑impact media relations, thought leadership, and integrated communications initiatives.
• Partner with digital, content, and creative teams to deliver cohesive, multi-channel strategic communications programs.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to client stakeholders.
• Manage expectations, provide proactive counsel, and navigate complex communications challenges with confidence.
• Identify opportunities to expand and strengthen client relationships.
• Participate in new business efforts, from research to presentation.
• Mentor and coach PR team members, fostering growth, expertise, and collaboration.
• Model strong leadership, strategic thinking, and high‑quality execution.
• Contribute to hiring, onboarding, and talent development across the PR team.
• Attend and encourage participation in networking events and industry panels.
• Help identify opportunities for operational or cultural improvements and share ideas with leadership.
• Stay ahead of emerging trends in tech, media, and communications.
• Maintain a deep understanding of the evolving AI landscape—including tools, media narratives, and industry applications—to ensure programs remain modern and competitive.
• Champion new tools, processes, and approaches that elevate our work and keep Walker Sands ahead of the curve.
• Help shape internal frameworks that improve efficiency, quality, and strategic rigor.

Benefits

• 🩺 Health Coverage: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, plus mental health resources, pet insurance, fertility benefits, and more.
• 💰 Retirement Savings: Employer-matched 401(k) and access to financial planning services.
• 🌴 Flexible PTO: Take time as needed for vacations, mental health, or personal days. Includes 8 paid holidays, half-day summer Fridays, and a week off between Christmas and New Year.
• 🏡 Hybrid Work: Mix of in-office and remote work, with tools to stay connected across teams.
• 🎉 Milestone Sabbatical: Celebrate five years with a two-week sabbatical and a $2,000 gift.
• 👶 Family Support: Generous paid leave for new parents and caregivers, plus policies for pregnancy loss, adoption challenges, and more.
• 📚 Growth Opportunities: Clear career paths, mentorship programs, and learning events to help you grow professionally.
• 🌟 Culture: Our agency values our supportive, collaborative culture where we work hard to achieve the best outcomes for clients. Read more on our website here!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: No Education Listed