Public Relations Associate

Client: Education Services CompanyTitle: Public Relations AssociateLocation: RemoteDuration: 3 months + extensions (& possible conversion to full time employee)The Public Relations Associate is responsible for independently executing and contributing to public relations strategies and campaigns that advance brand, reputation, and business objectives. This role serves as a key strategic and tactical contributor within the Public Relations team, supporting high priority initiatives such as media relations, executive communications, thought leadership, content development and integrated campaigns.The position requires strong judgment, advanced content development and media relations skills, and the ability to manage complex projects with minimal supervision. The Public Relations Associate partners closely with internal stakeholders, external agencies, and senior leaders to deliver high quality PR outcomes and plays an important role in shaping messaging and campaign executionResponsibilities:Build and execute public relations campaigns and initiatives aligned with business and mission objectivesDevelop, refine, and deliver key messages to target audiences through traditional and non traditional earned and owned channelsDraft and edit high quality communications materials, including press releases, media alerts, articles, executive remarks, backgrounders, and digital/social contentSupport executive visibility efforts by developing briefing materials and messaging for media interviews, conferences, and public appearancesBuild and maintain working relationships with key media contacts and support proactive and reactive media outreachCoordinate with external PR agencies and vendors to ensure tactics are executed on strategy, on time, and on budgetContribute to integrated marketing efforts across brand marketing, social, and content teamsMonitor media coverage, track performance metrics, and provide analysis and insights to inform future strategiesSupport crisis and issues management efforts as needed, including rapid response communications and message developmentEnsure all communications adhere to ethical standards and applicable laws and regulationsRequired Skills:Ability to create and implement communications plansExcellent writing skillsStrong interpersonal and consensus-building skills, a demonstrated ability to interact effectively with multiple internal and external stakeholdersAbility to work some non-traditional hours for collaboration with agencies and colleagues overseasA commitment to working collaboratively as part of a cross-divisional teamKnowledge of web-based technology and demonstrated use of social and media tools for content creation and brand journalism, media tracking, research, analysis, and targeted communicationsExperience with crisis managementDemonstrated ability to leverage AI tools to generate insights, inform communications strategy, and accelerate content development while maintaining quality, accuracy, and brand voiceExperience in working with education issues a plusRelevant Years of Experience Required:5–6 years of progressive public relations and/or communications experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experienceDemonstrated experience in media relations, content development, and campaign executionExperience supporting executive communications and working with senior leadersExperience working in education, assessment, policy, or mission driven organizations preferredAgency experience and/or experience with international or global communications a plusWriting Sample RequirementsPlease require writing samples as part of submission. Ideal samples include:• At least 3–5 examples demonstrating range and polish• Examples should include:o A press release or media pitcho Examples of media placementso Executive communications (talking points, remarks, or briefing memo)o Thought leadership or bylined article