Transit Public & Media Relations Manager

charlottenc; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 91,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The Charlotte Area Transit System is recruiting a Manager of Public and Media Relations to lead its media relations program and public information efforts. The role reports to the Senior Manager, Communications, and focuses on accurate, timely messaging for media and the public to support safe transit operations and organizational credibility.

This role coordinates with Operations, Safety, and executive leadership to provide rapid, coordinated responses during incidents and to prepare leadership

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, public administration, or related field; five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in media relations or public information
• Experience supervising professional staff or leading work teams, including workflow management and performance accountability
• Understanding of crisis communications and incident-related public messaging

Responsibilities

• Lead media relations program, including press outreach, inquiries, and relationship management
• Oversee press releases, advisories, and official statements; coordinate service updates to media
• Direct crisis and incident media response with Operations and executive leadership
• Prepare executives for media interviews and briefings; develop talking points and briefing materials
• Coordinate messaging with Communications and Marketing to ensure consistency across platforms
• Track engagement metrics and continuously improve media strategies
• Supervise Media Relations staff and ensure continuity of operations across departments
• Collaborate with Customer Service, Operations, Marketing, and Legal for integrated communications

Skills

Media relations

Crisis communication

Executive communications

Team leadership

Public information

Education

Bachelor’s degree in communications or related field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Job description

The Charlotte Area Transit System is recruiting a Manager of Public and Media Relations to lead its media relations program and public information efforts. The role reports to the Senior Manager, Communications, and focuses on accurate, timely messaging for media and the public to support safe transit operations and organizational credibility.

This role coordinates with Operations, Safety, and executive leadership to provide rapid, coordinated responses during incidents and to prepare leadership