Public Relations Manager

Job Description:

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Develops and implements media relations strategies and plans on behalf of various firm practices.
• Coordinates public relations efforts on an ongoing basis with PR professional staff in Europe, Asia and other U.S. offices.
• Strategizes, develops and assists with implementation of PR best practices for use by marketing personnel globally.
• Leverages/cultivates strong relationships with key journalists across geographies in business, legal and other trade press.
• Generates and pitches story ideas about the Firm's practices/areas of expertise, accomplishments and partners.
• Trains and otherwise prepares partners for conversations with the press.
• Works with other marketing professionals Firm-wide to synchronize PR with marketing and business development activities and goals.
• Writes Firm press releases, develops media strategies and coordinates PR placements related to Firm announcements..
• Oversees work handled by PR senior coordinators on various Firm projects.
• Leads tracking and reporting of key PR metrics and utilizes findings to enhance future media campaigns.
• Ensures current knowledge of Firm policies and practices for staff, current knowledge of industry trends, and continued professional development for staff.
• Participates in the interviewing, selection and training process.
• Monitors time, attendance, overtime, and expense reports to ensure accuracy and compliance with firm policies.
• Effectively utilizes the Firm's performance management process to communicate performance expectations, monitor performance, coach employees, and manage unsatisfactory performance.
• Oversees employees' work performance and provides guidance in the resolution of problems.
• Initiates disciplinary procedures in collaboration with the Human Resources Department.
• Recommends guidelines and practices to promote efficiency, effectiveness, excellent customer service and improved employee relations, in alignment with the Firm's Core Values.
• Develops and communicates departmental guidelines and procedures.
• Ensures accurate and timely responses to requests for departmental services.
• Engages in strategic (i.e., long-range) planning by developing departmental goals and supporting objectives for assigned department(s).
• Demonstrates effective interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills to facilitate effective work relationships with others.
• Manages Firm resources responsibly.
• Complies with and understands Firm operation, policies and procedures.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

• Current knowledge of industry best practices, trends and techniques
• Superb oral and written communications skills
• Excellent critical thinking, judgment and decision-making ability
• Flexible self-starter with a desire to work in both strategic and hands-on capacities
• Strong familiarity with legal marketplace and professional services firm operations
• Significant knowledge of the business and legal press (coverage, tone, frequency, etc.) and strong business acumen
• Ability to identify and execute proactively on media opportunities
• Strong collaborative and project management skills
• Professional demeanor, high E.Q. and ability to interact effectively with partners, other attorneys and administrative staff at all levels
• Knowledge and implementation of the annual budget process
• Demonstrated experience with leading and supervising others
• Ability to administer Firm policies and procedures
• Ability to organize and prioritize work and delegate effectively
• Ability to treat sensitive and confidential matters with discretion
• Knowledge of relevant firm computer software programs (e.g., Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint), with the ability to learn new software and operating systems
• Demonstrates effective interpersonal and communication skills, both verbally and in writing
• Demonstrates close attention to detail
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, organizational, and planning skills
• Ability to handle multiple projects and shifting priorities
• Ability to handle sensitive matters and maintain confidentiality
• Ability to work well in a demanding and fast-paced environment
• Ability to work well independently as well as effectively within a team
• Ability to use discretion and exercise independent and sound judgment
• Flexibility to travel
• Flexibility to adjust hours and work the hours necessary to meet operating and business needs

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree  
• Minimum of six years of PR/Media Relations experience at or on behalf of a law firm
• Minimum of three years of related managerial experience