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 KPIsCollaborates 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, sponsor ships, and advertising on an on-going basis

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

High…