Manager, CommunicationsThe Manager, Communications, works closely with the Vice President, Communications to lead national media relations efforts and secure high-impact earned media coverage for Best Buddies International. The primary focus of this role is to proactively pitch and place stories with national, regional, and local media outlets to elevate awareness of the organization's mission, programs, events, ambassadors, and impact.Candidates must be collaborative, strategic thinkers with exceptional communication skills and a strong work ethic. As part of a small, fast-paced team, this position offers significant exposure to all areas of communications, public relations, and media strategy.This role also requires strong cross-department collaboration with teams where communications efforts overlap, including working closely with staff overseeing Best Buddies' website, email marketing, social media, special events, and sponsor relations initiatives to ensure aligned messaging and maximized media opportunities.Job requirements --- Qualified applicants must have:3+ years of professional experience in Public Relations, Corporate Communications, Media Relations, Journalism, or a related fieldBachelor's degree (BA/BS) requiredProven track record of successfully pitching media and securing earned media coverage across print, broadcast, and digital outletsMust be able to travel approximately 25% of the time for work-related eventsMust be able to work extended hours, nights, and weekends as needed during special eventsCore Skills & Capabilities:Exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills with a strong command of AP StyleAbility to develop compelling story angles and pitch press releases that result in media placementsStrong relationships with media contacts and the ability to build, grow, and maintain reporter and producer relationshipsExperience monitoring media and proactively identifying real-time opportunities to insert Best Buddies into relevant news cycles, trends, and cultural momentsMedia & Content Execution:Ability to craft and execute strategic media outreach plans for national and local coverageExperience writing press materials, including press releases, media advisories, pitches, and talking pointsProven ability to secure interviews, feature stories, and on-site media coverage for events and campaignsExperience working with partner and sponsor organizations to align and amplify media opportunitiesPrograms:Serve as the PR liaison between Best Buddies headquarters and state officesProvide public relations support to state offices and oversee the production of public relations materials for all offices and departmentsGrow earned media coverage for Best Buddies national events, including the Best Buddies Challenges and Best Buddies Friendship WalksSupport the planning of donor stewardship and end-of-year campaigns by assisting the Vice President, Communications with messaging and implementing digital tactics (email/social media)Development:Deliver sponsor benefits to assigned media sponsors at major events throughout the yearMaintain the annual internal editorial calendar for media sponsors and press opportunitiesOversee the creation of donor-centric stewardship emails, mailers, templates, and social media posts as neededCommunications:Draft press releases, media advisories, annual report content, website and social media copy, email campaigns, and other communications materialsSupport the development, distribution, and execution of BBI's Annual ReportMaintain consistent use of facts, figures, and language throughout the organization through effective internal communications toolsMonitor news clips in real time and distribute coverage to keep the senior leadership team informed and engaged regarding earned media stories and Best Buddies in the newsIdentify sources for compelling content to be used in email campaigns, annual reports, and the websiteEnsure all staff adhere to organizational style and brand guidelinesOperations:Assist with tactical PR plans for special events and facilitate the needs of attending mediaFinance:Assist Vice President, Communications in optimizing donated dollars and in-kind assets to maximize visibilityBest Buddies® is an affirmative action employer, in addition to an EOE and M/F/V/PWD/PV employer.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are foundational to Best Buddies International's core values and help the organization continue to achieve its mission. Here at Best Buddies, our goal is to lead and advocate for a more inclusive world.Best Buddies offers a comprehensive and generous benefits program that include financial security, health and wellness and time off.