Media Relations Manager — Public Communications Leader

City-of-Norfolk,-V; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Norfolk, Virginia seeks an experienced Media Relations Manager to lead interactions with local, regional, and national media. The role develops media strategies, coordinates press activities, and serves as a spokesperson when designated, ensuring clear, timely communication on city initiatives.

Responsibilities include preparing executives and SMEs for media engagements, monitoring coverage, and integrating digital media into strategies.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of professional experience in public relations, strategic communications or media relations.
• Bachelor’s degree is required.
• Experience in government, public sector communications, or high profile organizations.
• Crisis communications training or experience handling sensitive/high-visibility messaging.
• Familiarity with media monitoring tools, analytics platforms, and newsroom software.
• Experience preparing executives or public figures for media engagement.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive media relations strategies across print, broadcast and digital media.
• Build and maintain relationships with journalists and communications partners.
• Draft/edit press releases, advisories, briefings and remarks.
• Plan and facilitate press conferences, interviews and media events with logistics and messaging.
• Monitor news coverage and provide analysis to leadership.
• Collaborate with internal departments to align messaging.
• Coach leadership and SMEs for media appearances.
• Manage crisis communications with leadership for timely responses.
• Maintain media contact lists and reporting on outreach.

Skills

Public relations

Strategic communications

Media relations

Crisis communications

Media monitoring

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Newsroom software

Analytics platforms

Media tracking tools

Job description

The City of Norfolk, Virginia seeks an experienced Media Relations Manager to lead interactions with local, regional, and national media. The role develops media strategies, coordinates press activities, and serves as a spokesperson when designated, ensuring clear, timely communication on city initiatives.

Responsibilities include preparing executives and SMEs for media engagements, monitoring coverage, and integrating digital media into strategies.