At Phaedon, we believe that inspired people spark action. The Director of Media Relations is a team leader who plays a critical role in delivering action from within Phaedon’s media relations practice. This position is responsible for developing and executing multi-faceted earned media strategies for high-profile accounts, providing strategic oversight, team leadership and day-to-day client counsel. The Director of Media Relations will nurture media relationships on behalf of Phaedon, sharpening the agency’s media prowess and continuing to raise the bar in execution excellence.  

The person in this role is culture obsessed and knows what it takes for brands to break through and earn attention in today’s ever-evolving media landscape.  

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead a team of 2-3 media relations professionals, providing guidance and mentorship while also fostering the growth and development of direct reports. 

• Keep a pulse on the media landscape, monitor industry trends and identify emerging media opportunities.  

• Develop regular POVs and proactive recommendations to internal colleagues and external teams (clients, agency partners, etc.).  

• Help shape and sharpen the earned media value of creative ideas, operating with a solutions-orientated mindset. 

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts across various industries.  

• Develop and implement comprehensive earned media strategies aligned with client objectives; confidently shape strategies to support high-profile initiatives like Super Bowl and other cluttered timeframes, knowing how to navigate the landscape while also understanding what it takes to breakthrough to deliver goals.   

• Provide input to sharpen the earned media value of creative ideas; collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate media relations efforts with broader PR and marketing initiatives.  

• Manage execution details and timelines, ensuring deadlines are met and providing ongoing updates to leadership.  

• Serve as the day-to-day client contact, building strong, trusting relationships by showcasing an ongoing understanding of their business; deliver clear, concise, and transparent counsel and continually bring value, insights and informed recommendations to the table. 

• Provide leadership in an IAT setting, offering ongoing counsel and solutions to champion the earned media channel. 

• Write and/or oversee the development of press releases, media strategies and other communications materials; demonstrate strong knowledge of how to sew together a compelling, cohesive, clear and concise narrative that delivers on client communication goals. 

• Conduct talent and executive media trainings, knowing how to guide spokespeople to confidently deliver brand messages and navigate interviews. 

• Have stellar news judgement and keep tabs on emerging and current, having the foresight to know when something may pose a reputation issue for clients and act accordingly (i.e., elevate concerns to senior leaders, develop POVs, etc.).  

• Lead program measurement and KPIs development; work with the team to create client updates and recaps.  

• Take a leadership role in the agency’s organic and new business growth opportunities  

• Contribute to the agency’s financial health by managing budgets, billing, projections and staffing for direct reports and supporting teams.  

• Cultivate a culture that aligns with Phaedon’s values, with support, growth and partnership for people at its core. 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or related field 

• 10+ years of experience in media relations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role managing client account work and a team of people; CPG and/or alcohol experience a bonus. 

• Proven track record of developing and executing successful media relations campaigns; experience with Super Bowl or high-profile partnerships (sponsorships, talent/brand partnership, etc.) preferred.   

• Strong network of current and active top-tier media contacts across various industries.  

• Experience in crisis communications and issues management. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; confident presentation skills.  

• Strong leadership and team management abilities. 

• Proficiency in media sourcing, monitoring and analytics tools, including Muckrack, SEMRush and Critical Mention. 

What We Offer 

• Opportunity to work with diverse, high-profile clients 

• Collaborative and innovative work environment 

• Ongoing professional development and industry training 

• Competitive salary and benefits package 

Phaedon is an equal opportunity employer, and all employment decisions shall be made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law. Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process.

Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position. The pay range for this position is: $97,750 - $132,250