Public Relations Specialist

JDA Worldwide•Nashville, TN

just now•Hybrid

About The Position

JDA Worldwide is a full-service marketing and communications firm with over three decades of experience serving national, emerging, and category-leading brands. We are headquartered in Indianapolis with a co-working space in Nashville, TN, and have been named one of the best places to work in Indiana for 6 consecutive years. Our parent company, Prolific, is The Growth Firm, which holds a collection of companies and capabilities focused on growth. We are seeking a Publicist located in the Indianapolis or Nashville area for a hybrid position. The Public Relations Specialist will be responsible for developing and executing earned media strategies to enhance client visibility across national, regional, trade, and digital media. This role involves pitching interviews, feature stories, editorials, and other written works on behalf of clients, while also nurturing strong relationships with journalists, producers, editors, and podcast hosts. The specialist will also act as the initial point of contact for inbound media inquiries and identify timely opportunities that align with client objectives. The ideal candidate is a news enthusiast with outstanding writing skills and sharp media instincts. They should be proactive, take initiative, anticipate client and team needs, and consistently offer fresh, creative ideas. Staying connected to the daily news cycle and understanding how current events, cultural conversations, and emerging trends can create client opportunities is crucial. Success requires an individual who thrives in a fast-paced setting, communicates professionally, collaborates effectively, and is willing to support the team wherever needed.

Requirements

BS/BA in Business, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field
Proven experience as a Public Relations Officer or similar PR role
Experience managing media relations (online, broadcast and print)
Background in researching, writing and editing publications

Nice To Haves

2-3 years Experience as a Publicist or related fields
MA in Business, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field
Broad media connections, particularly in Faith, Business, and Government

Responsibilities

Foster and maintain strong relationships with members of the media.
Pitch and secure interviews, feature stories, editorials, guest articles, podcasts, and other earned media opportunities.
Draft compelling press releases, media pitches, statements, talking points, op-eds, award submissions, and other written communications on behalf of clients.
Serve as the first point of contact for inbound media inquiries and respond promptly to requests.
Research, establish, and develop relationships with reporters, editors, producers, and influencers.
Develop and maintain customized media lists tailored to each client's audience, geography, and campaign objectives.
Monitor the daily news cycle, industry trends, and cultural conversations to identify proactive media opportunities and potential reputational risks.
Bring creative story ideas and strategic recommendations that help clients stay relevant in the news.
Anticipate client and team needs by taking initiative and moving projects forward with minimal direction.
Master and utilize PR tools such as Muck Rack.
Seek opportunities for partnerships, sponsorships, speaking engagements, and other visibility opportunities.
Track media coverage and campaign performance while preparing client reports.
Represent clients on-site during media interviews, press conferences, book launches, and special events as needed.
Represent JDA Worldwide with professionalism in appearance, communication, and conduct.
Collaborate across departments and willingly support teammates to ensure exceptional client service.