Public Relations Manager, Community

Overview:

A collaborative communicator responsible for executing earned-media strategies that elevate HKS’ external visibility. Supports the development and execution of sector-specific integrated PR campaigns, high-impact storytelling, and builds targeted media and community stakeholder relationships that strengthen the firm’s reputation and business growth objectives. Seeks opportunities to provide support in achieving the firm’s values and goals.

Responsibilities:

• Partners with cross-functional teams to activate all relevant communication channels (e.g., conferences, in-office events, media relations, social media, HKS website, e-marketing) in support of integrated campaigns; represents PR in campaign planning to align earned media strategy, messaging, and timing with firmwide priorities

• Crafts integrated communication campaigns by understanding the firm’s business strategy, projects, research, and stories, translating these into measurable PR plans informed by market insights and business objectives

• Ensures all content aligns with HKS Brand messaging frameworks and supports thought-leadership storytelling

• Collaborates with Global PR team to raise the firm’s external visibility through editorial calendars, PR opportunities, and developing strong media relationships

• Mentors a high-performing global PR team and agency network with a focus on accountability, collaboration, and innovation

• Oversees goal setting and performance management for the PR function

• Develops a global measurement framework tying PR activity to brand and business KPIs

• Collaborates with Director of Events and office leadership for events that enhance client and community engagement while supporting PR visibility and campaign goals   

• Collaborates with global Marketing team by partnering with a team of writers, designers, producers, and strategists to support communication programs and ensure PR messaging is integrated across channels and creative touchpoints

• Evaluates opportunities for partnerships, sponsorships, and advertising on an on-going basis

• Builds and maintains live dashboards that track earned media performance, sentiment, and ROI

• Delivers transparent, real-time reporting to executives via dashboards and quarterly briefings

• Champions the exploration of emerging tech, including AI tools for media monitoring, sentiment analysis, content generation, and workflow automation

• Collaborates with Market Insights to translate trends, competitive analysis, and client intelligence into proactive PR strategies

• Maintains a deep understanding of the firm’s business strategy and market drivers to ensure PR supports growth objectives

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in journalism, Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or related degree

• Typically, 7+ years of media relations, PR, journalism, or communications experience, preferably in design, architecture, real estate, professional services, or related industries

• Preferred experience supporting PR in a matrixed global organization or AEC industry experience

• Preferred AEC experience within any of the following industries: Health, Education, Life Science, Government

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, including Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint preferred

• Experience in logistics management including connecting people and resources to the right place at the right time 

• Familiarity with PR tools (e.g., Cision, Meltwater, Muck Rack), asset gathering, and newsroom workflows

• Familiarity with project management and workflow tools (e.g., Asana, Miro)

• Excellent writing, editing, interviewing, and communication skills

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to excellence

• Collaborative, proactive, and able to work confidently with senior leaders and subject matter experts

• Strong presentation skills

• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously

• Ability to manage team with diplomatic and collaborative leadership style which puts value on relationships and collaboration, both internal and external

• Ability to communicate and present ideas in a clear, concise, and professional manner both verbally and in writing

• Ability to proactively problem solve and apply innovative solutions

• Ability to work and collaborate in a team environment, and ability to work independently and prioritize work

• Ability to effectively meet deadlines at expected quality
• Travel may be required

If you currently work for HKS, please submit your application via the Internal Careers Portal.

HKS is an EEO/AA Employer: M/F/Disabled/Veteran