Public Relations Manager

The Public Relations Manager is responsible for developing and executing strategic media relations initiatives that enhance the visibility and reputation of Baker Botts across key practice areas and geographies. Reporting to the Senior Manager, Communications, this role is primarily focused on the firm’s U.S. offices and will also collaborate closely with lawyers and communications professionals in international offices to ensure consistent, cross-border messaging.

This individual will lead media relations for the firm’s Corporate, Global Projects, and Intellectual Property departments, each of which includes highly ranked, market-leading practices in sectors such as energy, renewables, technology, and life sciences.

The ideal candidate will bring law firm experience and a strong network of media contacts in legal, business, energy, technology, and IP trade publications. They should be a strategic thinker and tactical executor who can navigate complex legal topics, quickly identify opportunities, and position firm lawyers and matters with high-value media.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and implement proactive PR strategies in partnership with the Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Manager, Communications to elevate the firm’s profile.
• Manage national and trade media relations campaigns for Corporate, Global Projects, and Intellectual Property practices.
• Maintain strong, existing relationships with journalists at top-tier national, legal, energy, technology, and IP media outlets.
• Identify, shape, and pitch compelling storylines and media opportunities related to client work, industry trends, legal matters, and firm developments.
• Support and prepare lawyers for media interviews and public speaking opportunities.
• Draft press releases, deal announcements, and media talking points; oversee distribution and reporting.
• Monitor industry news and coverage for media opportunities and risks; respond quickly to breaking news with relevant firm insights.
• Develop and maintain media lists and editorial calendars that align with the firm’s strategic priorities.
• Collaborate across departments and with international communications colleagues to support firmwide campaigns and initiatives.
• Serve as a spokesperson when appropriate or assist firm leadership in responding to media inquiries.
• Oversee relationships with external PR vendors and ensure quality deliverables and performance.
• Evaluate media coverage and effectiveness of PR initiatives, and report metrics regularly.
• Other duties as assigned by the Chief Marketing Officer or Senior Manager.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in PR or media relations, with time at a law firm or professional services environment.
• Must have strong media contacts in:
• National business outlets
• Legal publications
• Energy and infrastructure press
• Technology and IP trades
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Deep understanding of law firm structure and the unique sensitivities of legal PR.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Experience with media monitoring and PR platforms such as Meltwater, Roxhill, Cision, and Muck Rack strongly preferred.
• Exceptional time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage competing deadlines.
• Ability to work independently, think critically, and handle sensitive or confidential information with discretion.
• Willingness to work outside of standard business hours, including evenings or weekends, as needed.

Extent of Public Contact

Internal:

• Frequent interaction with Client Development team and firm leadership
• High-touch collaboration with partners and attorneys across U.S. offices
• Coordination with international lawyers and communications colleagues

External:

• Extensive contact with journalists, editors, and PR industry contacts
• Occasional coordination with vendors and consultants

Physical Demands

• Must be able to work at a computer and on the phone for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 10 pounds.
• Function effectively in a standard office environment.

Working Conditions

• Standard office setting with a hybrid work schedule (minimum three days per week in the office).
• Full-time role requiring a five-day workweek.
• Occasional travel may be necessary.
• Flexibility required to accommodate urgent media needs or time-sensitive opportunities.

If this position is filled in any of our California, New York, or Washington D.C. offices, the salary range is $170,000 - $200,000. The actual compensation will be based on a combination of factors.

Baker Botts L.L.P.  is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, gender identity or expression, genetic information or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.