PR Account Manager

rygr•Carbondale, IL

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The PR Account Manager (AM) is a strategic and executional leader responsible for managing day-to-day communications programs across multiple client accounts. With a minimum of 3–5 years of public relations experience, the AM serves as a primary client contact, leads earned media strategy and storytelling efforts, and ensures seamless execution of campaigns that deliver measurable results. This role reports the Earned Media Director and oversees 2–4 client accounts. The ideal candidate is proactive, highly organized, media-savvy, and passionate about outdoor, active, and lifestyle brands.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field
3–5 years of public relations experience (agency experience strongly preferred)
Proven experience managing client relationships and leading PR strategy
Strong writing skills with a portfolio of press materials and pitching experience
Established relationships within outdoor, active lifestyle or CPG preferred - mainstream media relationships are expected
Deep understanding of earned media and integrated communications
Exceptional organization and project management skills
Strategic thinker with a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
A collaborative spirit and team-first attitude
Passion for outdoor, active, or lifestyle brands

Nice To Haves

Knowledge and basic understanding of rygr’s services and offerings, including Paid Media, SEO/AEO, Affiliate, Influencer and Organic Social
Experience or ability to use a suite of tools and platforms to manage client relationships, campaigns, and workflows
Demonstrated Go-to-Market experience and/or work on integrated marketing campaigns
A sense of humor and love of the outdoors

Responsibilities

Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, building strong, trusted relationships
Lead development and execution of strategic PR plans aligned with client business goals
Translate brand positioning into compelling, culturally relevant story angles
Maintain consistent client reporting (weekly updates, monthly recaps, quarterly reviews)
Proactively identify new opportunities for visibility, partnerships, and thought leadership
Develop and maintain strong relationships with key national, regional, trade media and influencers
Regularly pitch proactive stories and respond to inbound media opportunities
Draft compelling press materials including press releases, media alerts, pitches and executive thought leadership
Build and refine targeted media lists across relevant verticals, including emerging media platforms and online communities
Monitor coverage and identify momentum-building opportunities
Manage product launches, brand announcements, events, partnerships, and integrated campaigns
Collaborate with internal teams across services (influencer, social, affiliate, AEO, etc.) and partnerships when applicable
Track KPIs and ensure programs deliver measurable outcomes
Planning: building event plans (timelines, budgets, run-of-show, vendor/venue logistics)
Execution: managing media events, launches, trade shows, and experiential activations end-to-end
On-the-ground support: acting as on-site point of contact, handling logistics and troubleshooting in real time
Post-event reporting/recaps: compiling reports covering attendance, coverage, and takeaways
Provide guidance and mentorship to Associate Account Managers and Coordinators
Contribute to brainstorms and agency-wide creative ideation
Stay informed on media trends, industry shifts, and cultural moments
Support new business efforts as needed