Manager, Media Relations

The Manager of Media Relations plays a central role in managing earned media opportunities for the American Petroleum Institute, helping shape national conversations around energy and public policy. Operating in a fast-moving political and media environment, this position drives day-to-day media engagement, advances proactive storylines tied to major legislative and regulatory debates, and supports rapid response efforts during breaking news cycles.

This role collaborates across communications, public affairs, policy, and government relations teams to translate complex developments into clear, compelling narratives and manage issues in real time. The ideal candidate is a news-savvy communications professional who closely follows the political and media landscape, understands the nuances of complex policy issues, and thrives in a high-energy, deadline-driven environment.

This position offers the opportunity to grow and develop within a fast-paced media team, contributing meaningfully to integrated advocacy efforts and high-visibility public policy debates.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day earned media engagement across national and priority markets, advancing API's policy priorities in the press.
• Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, statements, talking points, Q&As, fact sheets, op-eds, and executive briefing materials with accuracy and strategic clarity.
• Identify and pitch proactive media opportunities tied to legislative, regulatory, and industry developments across national outlets, trade publications, podcasts, broadcast programs, and key state media.
• Support CEO and API leadership media engagements by developing briefing materials, drafting talking points, coordinating logistics, and assisting with strategic pitching efforts.
• Support real-time issue management by developing timely messaging during breaking news and high-scrutiny policy moments.
• Monitor news coverage and emerging narratives daily; support API's war room efforts to stay ahead of the news cycle and shape proactive and reactive activity.
• Research policy developments and collaborate with policy experts to ensure communications are factually sound and strategically aligned.
• Build and maintain working relationships with reporters and editors across print, digital, radio, and broadcast outlets.
• Maintain and ensure accurate, targeted media databases and press lists to reach the right reporters and expand API's media footprint.
• Partner with digital and strategic communications teams to amplify media engagements, tap into the broader news cycle, and engage with members of the press across social platforms.
• Staff and prepare subject-matter experts and executives for media engagements, including drafting interview materials and coordinating logistics.
• Contribute to integrated advocacy campaigns that align earned media with broader public affairs objectives.

Key Relationships

• Reports directly to the Director of External Communications.

Qualifications

• Requires a minimum of 5-7 years of experience in communications, public relations, public affairs or a similar role and subject matter expertise.
• At least 3 years of media relations experience.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication, project management, and operational skills are essential.
• Bachelor's degree in relevant area, or other related field equivalent work experience.
• Outstanding writing/editing skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to respond promptly to executive and members' needs and solicit team feedback to meet project deadlines, while maintaining high-quality results.
• Self-starter who takes initiative with experience working both independently and well with others is essential.
• Working knowledge of policy issues, Congress, the Executive Branch, and political debate.
• Ability to perform in a fast work environment and multi-task multiple projects and initiatives under tight deadlines.
• Ability to provide informed media counsel and exercise sound judgment when interacting with reporters.

Physical Requirements

• Able to remain in a stationary position working on a computer
• Move about the office to access office machinery, meeting rooms, etc. on occasion
• Operate a computer and other office machinery such as printers and copy machines
• Transport items and equipment up to 10 lbs. on occasion

Travel Requirements

• Up to 25%

Percentage of travel time expected for the position, where the travel occurs, such as locally or in specific countries or states, and whether the travel is overnight.

This job outline describes the typical accountabilities and requirements of the position and should not be construed as an all-encompassing description of every duty performed by or expected of the incumbent.

EEO Statement

API is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All aspects of employment will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. Our success in maintaining a reputation for professional excellence depends on…