PR & Communications Lead

Deploy•San Francisco, CA

About The Position

Deploy is hiring an experienced communications professional to establish and lead its Public Relations and Communications function. Reporting directly to the CEO and partnering with the executive team, this first dedicated communications hire will shape the company’s external narrative, lead strategic communications, and increase Deploy’s visibility in media and industry discussions. The role begins as an individual contributor, with the potential to grow the function and manage agency relationships and/or additional internal team members over time. Deploy is an intelligence infrastructure platform providing access to open-source and proprietary AI models. The company’s solutions include optimized inference for leading open-source LLMs and proprietary models for content safety, AI and deepfake detection, sponsorship intelligence, and IP and publicity protection. Deploy has raised more than $200 million, has more than 250 employees, and has offices in San Francisco, Seattle, New York, and Delhi. The company describes itself as an ambitious team building an AI company where employees can take on a steep learning curve and make a noticeable, direct contribution to its development. The expected base salary is $100,000–$135,000. Compensation may vary based on qualifications, skills, competencies, experience, and location; stock options may be offered in addition to base pay. Deploy may use AI tools to assist parts of the hiring process, but final hiring decisions are made by people.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience in public relations, corporate communications, or a related field.
Proven ability to secure high-quality media coverage and manage communications efforts end to end.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, engaging narratives.
Strong news judgment and understanding of media cycles, journalist priorities, and industry dynamics.
Ability to work independently and strategically in a fast-moving startup environment.
Comfort collaborating with executive stakeholders and representing the company externally with credibility and confidence.
Ability to manage multiple priorities, adapt to changing circumstances, and deliver high-quality work on deadline.
Strong attention to detail and high editorial standards.

Nice To Haves

Experience in fast-paced technology or AI-driven environments.
Experience building a function from the ground up.
Experience working with or managing PR agencies or freelancers.
Familiarity with AI, machine learning, or other emerging technologies.
Background in crisis communications or issues management.
Understanding of SEO, social media strategy, or content marketing.
Experience providing media training for executives or spokespeople.

Responsibilities

Define and execute Deploy’s strategic communications roadmap, including external PR across media relations, press releases, thought leadership, and corporate messaging.
Identify and secure earned media opportunities in top-tier publications and industry outlets to elevate the company, its technology, and its leadership.
Write and edit press releases, media statements, blog posts, executive bylines, and other communications content.
Develop and maintain relationships with media across business, technology, and AI outlets, and serve as the primary contact for media inquiries.
Collaborate with product, legal, engineering, HR, and other internal teams to identify stories and ensure accurate, consistent messaging.
Advise internal stakeholders on messaging and positioning for product launches, partnerships, events, and issues management.
Manage external communications for major company milestones, including product launches, partnerships, and funding announcements.
Monitor press coverage, industry trends, and competitor narratives; identify opportunities and risks and share insights with internal teams.
Support internal communications as needed, including executive messaging and all-hands updates.
Track communications activity, share of voice, and impact metrics.
Follow policies, guidelines, and procedures for protecting information assets.