Public Relations Manager

Animal Humane Society•Golden Valley, MN

9h•$70,000 - $80,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Come work for Animal Humane Society as a Public Relations Manager, where caring for animals isn’t just a job – it’s our passion. We are on a mission to compassionately and responsibly create a more humane world for animals and their people. Job Summary : The Public Relations Manager is responsible for developing and executing strategic public relations initiatives that elevate brand awareness, strengthen reputation, and support organizational priorities, including public-facing communications related to complex or sensitive animal welfare issues. As a key member of the Marketing and Communications team, this role leads media relations efforts to ensure consistent, compelling messaging across all earned and shared channels.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in public relations, media relations, journalism, or communications.
Proven track record of securing media coverage and managing press relationships.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Familiarity with media monitoring and PR analytics tools.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail.
Strong administrative and organizational skills.
Strong multi-tasking, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
Proficient with computers and Microsoft products.
Prolonged sitting at a desk.
Must be able to lift and carry up to 30 lbs.
Must be comfortable handling dogs, cats, and critters on and off camera for media appearances.
Must be comfortable with the emotional aspect of work in an animal shelter environment, including the use of humane euthanasia.

Nice To Haves

Experience serving as a spokesperson and participating in on-camera interviews preferred.
Video production and editing skills are preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and lead a proactive public relations strategy aligned with organizational priorities and brand positioning.
Build and maintain strong relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets.
Proactively identify and pitch stories that position AHS as a trusted, leading voice.
Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries and interview coordination.
Represent AHS on camera and in live interviews with clarity, confidence, and professionalism.
Draft press releases, media statements, op-eds, and media briefing materials.
Prepare organizational leaders for media engagement through coaching, messaging, and briefing materials.
Monitor media coverage and public sentiment to provide insights and recommendations.
Ensure consistency of messaging across all external communications.
Support crisis communications planning and response, including rapid message development and media coordination during emerging situations.
Protect and enhance the organization’s brand and public image.
Identify reputational risks and opportunities related to public perception.
Identify and develop compelling stories that highlight the impact of AHS and its work.
Collaborate with marketing and program colleagues to amplify stories across channels.
Support internal and executive communications as needed.
Partner with marketing and fundraising teams to support integrated campaigns.
Align PR efforts with key organizational initiatives, events, and advocacy priorities.
Track, analyze, and report on PR performance, using insights to refine strategy and improve effectiveness.
Build strong cross-functional relationships to surface stories and align messaging.
Provide media training and communications guidance to staff and subject matter experts.
Communicate in a positive and professional manner with customers, colleagues, and volunteers.
Promote a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion to make AHS a welcoming environment for all.
Monitor AHS email and voicemail and respond to media inquiries in a timely manner.
Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Health, Dental, Vision insurance
Paid Time Off
9 paid holidays + 4 floating holidays per full calendar year
401k with a 4% company match
Unique animal adoption benefits and discounts on veterinary care and pet supplies
Health insurance coverage for full time staff includes the following: medical, dental, vision, health savings account, flexible spending account for health care expenses and dependent care, voluntary accident insurance; critical illness insurance; hospital indemnity insurance; employee- paid supplemental life; employee-paid accidental death & dismemberment; and long term disability insurance.
Employer-paid benefits for full time staff includes the following: basic life insurance, basic accidental death and dismemberment insurance, short-term disability.
Support for student loans: we are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness qualified employer
Mental Health and Counseling Support: all employees have access to our Employee Assistance Program with 3 free counseling sessions per year
Paid parent leave for full-time staff