Public Relations Manager

Biliterate in English and Spanish languages (spoken and written) is required. About this position

The Public Relations Manager leads issues management, crisis response, media relations, and serves as the official spokesperson for the California Strawberry Commission. This role is critical in monitoring emerging trends and swiftly addressing key issues that impact the California strawberry industry. Through timely and effective communication, the Public Relations Manager maintains the Commission’s credibility, stakeholder trust, and industry reputation.

This leader is responsible for speaking on behalf of the Commission President with media, stakeholders, and the public on a wide spectrum of complex and high‑impact issues that affect the California strawberry industry. With a strong grasp of agricultural policy, environmental regulations, and industry dynamics, the Public Relations Manager translates technical and often contentious topics into clear, accurate, and compelling messaging for diverse audiences.

A strategic thinker and skilled communicator, the Public Relations Manager is a core member of the Commission’s communications team working closely with the Public Relations Director and broader team, including consultants. They work cross‑functionally to ensure message alignment with the Commission’s brand and long‑term goals. They combine strategic insight with strong tactical execution—leading media responses, developing messaging frameworks, and ensuring timely delivery of communication across platforms.

While comfortable under pressure and highly experienced in public communication, the ideal candidate also brings a practical understanding of the agricultural and community context in which the industry operates.

The position is located in the Watsonville Office. Up to 20% travel within California’s strawberry growing regions can be expected. The Public Relations Manager is an exempt full‑time, in‑person position with a 40‑hour per week schedule, which includes benefits. The normal schedule is Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, but additional hours may be required to respond to crisis situations or media inquiries.

This position requires the ability to perform essential in‑person activities, with the appropriate safeguards, including a vaccination(s) in accordance with Title VI, the ADA, EEOC guidance, and FEHA.

• Optimist who gets along well with others.
• Exceptional communicator, both written and spoken.
• Fluent (able to speak and write) in English and Spanish.
• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, public relations, or a related field.
• Minimum 5‑years’ experience in media and/or crisis communications.
• Tech‑savvy and quick to adapt to new digital platforms and trends.
• Critical thinking and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to calculate basic math functions including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• Valid CA Driver’s License.

• Demonstrated success as a high performer in issues, crisis and media communications.
• 10+ years’ related experience.
• Familiarity with agricultural operations.

The California Strawberry Commission is an established leader among agricultural organizations. We have the foundation of a 64‑year‑old organization, combined with the excitement and energy of a startup. We represent more than 400 strawberry farmers, shippers, and processors, proudly working together to advance strawberry farming for the future of our land and people. Commission programs create opportunities for success through groundbreaking programs focused on workforce training, strawberry production research, and nutrition research.

Through science‑based information and education, we deliver the good news about sustainable farming practices that benefit the health of people, farms, and communities.

You’ll be part of a mission‑driven team dedicated to supporting California strawberry growers, shippers, and processors. In this role, you’ll help strengthen Commission programs, share timely insights, and promote…