Director of Communications

Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership•Pittsburgh, PA

10d

About The Position

The Director of Communications supports the execution of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership’s (PDP) marketing and communications strategy, with a strong focus on media relations, public relations, and external messaging. Reporting to the Vice President of Marketing & Communications, this role serves as the organization’s primary day-to-day media contact, responsible for implementing proactive media outreach, securing earned media coverage, and ensuring consistent, high-quality communications across all external channels. This position plays a critical role in shaping PDP’s public presence through effective storytelling, strong media relationships, and the development of compelling written content that supports the organization’s programs, events, and initiatives. This is a fast-paced, event-driven communications environment requiring agility, responsiveness, and strong execution across multiple priorities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field (or equivalent experience)
5–7 years of experience in public relations, media relations, or communications
Proven ability to pitch and secure earned media coverage
Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills across multiple formats
Experience executing communications plans and managing multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Familiarity with media monitoring tools and performance tracking
Working knowledge of digital platforms including social media, SEO basics, and Google Analytics
Experience with WordPress, Microsoft Office Suite, and Adobe Creative Suite (or similar tools)
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to work under pressure
Collaborative, responsive, and proactive in identifying opportunities
Willingness to work evenings/weekends and support outdoor events as needed

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of Downtown Pittsburgh and its business/cultural landscape is a plus

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact for day-to-day media inquiries
Execute a proactive media outreach strategy to secure coverage for PDP initiatives, events, and partnerships
Identify and pitch media opportunities that align with PDP priorities
Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, talking points, and press materials
Coordinate media logistics including interview scheduling, on-site media support, and follow-up
Prepare internal spokespeople for media engagements as needed; occasionally serve as a spokesperson when appropriate
Monitor media coverage, track earned media results, and provide regular reporting on performance
Ensure consistent application of PDP’s voice and messaging across all communications
Support the execution of integrated communications campaigns in alignment with organizational priorities
Assist in the development of messaging for announcements, initiatives, and public-facing efforts
Provide support for issues management and time-sensitive communications as needed
Write, edit, and proofread content across PDP channels, including newsletters, website copy, reports, and promotional materials
Support the development and distribution of e-newsletters and e-blasts; monitor engagement and recommend optimizations
Collaborate with the Digital Media Manager to maintain accurate, up-to-date, and engaging website content
Contribute to key publications such as the Annual Report, seasonal guides, and campaign materials
Support communications and media outreach tied to PDP’s robust calendar of events and activations
Assist with on-site media coordination and real-time communications execution during events as needed
Manage multiple communications projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines and quality standards are met
Coordinate and oversee intern support for communications tasks including content development and distribution