Public Relations Manager

Baker Botts • Austin, TX

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

Baker Botts is seeking a Public Relations Manager to develop and execute strategic media relations initiatives that enhance the visibility and reputation of the firm across key practice areas and geographies. This role will primarily focus on the firm’s U.S. offices, with collaboration on cross-border messaging with international offices. The manager will lead media relations for the Litigation and Tax departments, which are market-leading in sectors like energy, technology, and renewables. The ideal candidate will have law firm experience, a strong network of media contacts in legal, business, energy, technology, and trade publications, and the ability to navigate complex legal topics to position firm lawyers and matters effectively.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in PR or media relations, with time at a law firm or professional services environment.
• Must have strong media contacts in: National business outlets, Legal publications, Energy and infrastructure press, Technology and IP trades.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Deep understanding of law firm structure and the unique sensitivities of legal PR.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Exceptional time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage competing deadlines.
• Ability to work independently, think critically, and handle sensitive or confidential information with discretion.
• Willingness to work outside of standard business hours, including evenings or weekends, as needed.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with media monitoring and PR platforms such as Meltwater, Roxhill, Cision, and Muck Rack strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Create, schedule, and publish content for LinkedIn, Instagram, and X; maintain the firmwide social media calendar.
• Design branded graphics and collaborate with Marketing & Brand to ensure visual consistency.
• Promote earned media, press coverage, and firm achievements across social channels and the online newsroom.
• Support attorneys with LinkedIn content and provide profile-development guidance.
• Develop and implement proactive PR strategies in partnership with the Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Manager, Communications to elevate the firm’s profile.
• Manage national and trade media relations campaigns for Litigation and Tax practices.
• Maintain strong, existing relationships with journalists at top-tier national, legal, energy and technology media outlets.
• Identify, shape, and pitch compelling storylines and media opportunities related to client work, industry trends, legal matters, and firm developments.
• Support and prepare lawyers for media interviews and public speaking opportunities.
• Draft press releases, deal announcements, and media talking points; oversee distribution and reporting.
• Monitor industry news and coverage for media opportunities and risks; respond quickly to breaking news with relevant firm insights.
• Develop and maintain media lists and editorial calendars that align with the firm’s strategic priorities.
• Collaborate across departments and with international colleagues to support firmwide campaigns and initiatives.
• Serve as a spokesperson when appropriate or assist firm leadership in responding to media inquiries.
• Oversee relationships with external PR vendors and ensure quality deliverables and performance.
• Evaluate media coverage and effectiveness of PR initiatives, and report metrics regularly.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive total rewards package, including salary, health and welfare benefits, retirement savings, paid time off, and professional development support.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level