Media Relations Manager

Job TypeFull-timeDescriptionThe Cato Institute seeks a strategic, proactive, and highly organized Media Relations Manager to help drive national media engagement for one of the world's leading public policy organizations. This role is responsible for building and maintaining relationships with journalists, securing high-impact media placements, managing rapid-response communications, and positioning Cato scholars as trusted experts across breaking news and long-term policy conversations.The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced news environment, understands the modern media landscape, and can balance strategic planning with day-to-day execution. This position reports to the Associate Director of Media Relations and works closely with scholars, Public Affairs, Government Affairs, Publications, Digital, and external media partners.This is a hybrid position in Washington, DC.The salary range for this role is $75,000 - $120,000 per year. Compensation is based on the successful candidate's educational background, experience, and skills.About CatoThe Cato Institute is a public policy research organization - a think tank - dedicated to the principles of individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace. Its scholars and analysts conduct independent, nonpartisan research on a wide range of policy issues.Founded in 1977, Cato owes its name to Cato's Letters, a series of essays published in 18th-century England that presented a vision of a society free from excessive government power. Those essays inspired the architects of the American Revolution. And the simple, timeless principles of that revolution - individual liberty, limited government, and free markets - turn out to be even more powerful in today's world of global markets and unprecedented access to information than Jefferson or Madison could have imagined. Social and economic freedom is not just the best policy for a free people; it is an indispensable framework for the future.?The Cato Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.Responsibilities:Develop and execute proactive media outreach strategies to elevate Cato scholars, research, events, and institutional prioritiesBuild and maintain relationships with national, regional, trade, and broadcast journalistsIdentify timely news hooks and rapidly respond to breaking news cycles with expert commentary and media opportunitiesDraft and distribute media pitches, expert advisories, statements, press releases, and talking pointsCoordinate interviews, media appearances, editorial board meetings, and reporter briefingsSupport opinion media strategy, including op-ed placement opportunities and commentary outreachCollaborate with internal teams to align media efforts with broader organizational campaigns and prioritiesMonitor media coverage, track trends, and identify emerging opportunities across policy areasAssist scholars with media preparation, messaging development, and interview coachingMaintain accurate records of outreach, placements, and journalist engagement using media databases and tracking toolsRepresent Cato at media events, conferences, and networking opportunities as neededContribute to reporting on media outcomes, coverage metrics, and strategic impactRequirements Education/ ExperienceBachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, political science, or related field3-6+ years of experience in media relations, public affairs, journalism, communications, or related fieldStrong understanding of the US media landscape and news cycle dynamicsExperience working with media monitoring and CRM tools such as Meltwater, Muck Rack, or similar platforms preferredInterest in public policy, economics, civil liberties, foreign policy, or related issue areas preferredA strong understanding of, and alignment with, libertarian or classical liberal principles preferred SkillsExceptional written and verbal communication skillsProven ability to pitch and secure earned media placementsAbility to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environmentStrong organizational skills and attention to detailProfessionalism and confidence working with senior scholars, journalists, and institutional leadershipStrong news judgment and ability to identify compelling story anglesComfortable operating in a rapid-response environmentCollaborative mindset with the ability to work across departmentsSelf-starter who can independently manage projects and relationshipsExperience supporting high-profile media campaigns or policy communications initiatives Benefits All Cato employees are provided with: Medical, dental, and vision insuranceEmployer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA)Generous vacation and sick daysPaid parental leaveEmployer-provided life and disability insurance401(k) employer matchTransit/ Parking benefitsPet discount plan Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. This position does not offer visa sponsorship.