Senior Public Relations & Media Strategy Lead

The Barack Obama Foundation; United States; Hybrid; USD 104,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Barack Obama Foundation seeks a Press Secretary to advance the mission through strategic storytelling, media relations, and national/local outreach. This hybrid role at the Obama Presidential Center focuses on earned media, creator partnerships, and crisis-ready communications to inform and inspire diverse audiences.

You'll lead media strategy, manage external partners, and mentor the communications team, delivering high-impact coverage and cohesive messaging across traditional and new media

Qualifications

• 8 years in public relations, media relations, or strategic communications.
• Established network of national/local press contacts with a track record of high-impact coverage.
• Ability to identify and package compelling narratives aligned with institutional goals.
• Experience navigating media crises and rapid response scenarios.
• Experience managing teams and external consultants on cross-functional projects.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Communications & Media Relations: develop and execute PR strategy, cultivate national/local media, and coordinate with influencers.
• Storytelling & Message Development: surface and pitch stories that highlight impact and align messaging across platforms.
• Major Events & Program Launches: lead media strategy and execution for events and milestones.
• Crisis Communications & Rapid Response: develop crisis playbooks and provide rapid perspectives to emerging opportunities.
• External Partnerships & Consultant Management: oversee agencies and consultants to meet communications goals.
• Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration: mentor the team and work with other departments to ensure cohesive messaging.

Skills

Public relations

Media relations

Strategic communications

Crisis communications

Team leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Job description

The Barack Obama Foundation seeks a Press Secretary to advance the mission through strategic storytelling, media relations, and national/local outreach. This hybrid role at the Obama Presidential Center focuses on earned media, creator partnerships, and crisis-ready communications to inform and inspire diverse audiences.

You'll lead media strategy, manage external partners, and mentor the communications team, delivering high-impact coverage and cohesive messaging across traditional and new media