Manager of Public Relations

Ropes & Gray•New York, NY

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The PR Manager is responsible for developing and executing integrated, data-driven external communications strategies that enhance the firm’s reputation across priority practice areas, including private equity, M&A, asset management, and regulated sectors such as healthcare and life sciences. This role serves as a strategic advisor to partners and senior leadership, positioning the firm and its lawyers as market leaders through proactive media engagement, thought leadership, and rankings strategies. The PR Manager will leverage advanced technologies, including AI-driven tools, to inform decision-making, generate insights, and drive measurable impact across communications initiatives. The successful candidate will bring a strong understanding of the legal industry, particularly corporate transactional practices, and a demonstrated ability to translate complex legal matters into compelling narratives for external audiences.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; JD or advanced degree preferred
Minimum of eight (8) years of relevant professional experience in a law firm, PR agency, media organization, or similar professional services environment
Demonstrated experience supporting corporate transactional practices, including private equity, M&A, capital markets, or asset management; experience in healthcare or life sciences sectors is a plus
Demonstrated experience and skill in proactive media pitching, including identifying newsworthy opportunities, crafting compelling pitches, and securing media coverage across relevant outlets
Advanced proficiency in leveraging AI and emerging technologies to enhance communications strategy, including media intelligence, predictive analytics, and content generation
Exceptional writing and editing skills, with experience drafting for senior executives and legal audiences
Strategic thinker with the ability to align communications initiatives to firmwide business objectives
Ability to synthesize complex information quickly and communicate key messages clearly and effectively
High degree of professionalism, discretion, and sensitivity in handling confidential firm and client matters
Proactive and solutions-oriented, with a strong sense of ownership and accountability
Ability to operate effectively within a partnership structure and navigate a complex organizational environment
Strong collaboration skills, with the ability to work across practices, functions, and seniority levels
Adaptability and intellectual curiosity, particularly in relation to evolving technologies such as generative AI and their application to communications and marketing
Strong understanding of media landscape, including print, broadcast, digital, and social channels
Proven ability to translate complex legal and business concepts into clear, compelling messaging
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and advise senior stakeholders
Demonstrated success managing high-impact PR initiatives in a complex, fast-paced organization
Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
Experience leading and developing high-performing teams
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with media and analytics platforms

Responsibilities

Lead the development and execution of integrated communications strategies for key practice groups, industries, and firmwide initiatives
Partner closely with practice leaders in high-growth areas—including private equity, M&A, asset management, healthcare, and life sciences—to enhance market visibility and support business development objectives
Serve as a trusted advisor to partners on media strategy, messaging, and positioning, including media training and preparation
Oversee the execution of PR campaigns, media outreach, thought leadership, and editorial content aligned with firm priorities
Direct and manage programs for legal directories, rankings, awards, and related submissions to strengthen the firm’s market profile
Utilize AI-enabled tools and analytics platforms to support media monitoring, sentiment analysis, content development, and competitive intelligence
Develop and maintain strong relationships with key members of the media, including legal, financial, and industry trade press
Monitor and analyze communications performance, preparing regular reports with actionable insights and recommendations
Lead a competitive intelligence program to track peer firm positioning, emerging trends, and market opportunities