Media Relations Manager (Public Affairs)

RH Strategic is seeking a media relations and client counseling specialist to join our growing team (internal title: Media Lead). This role is ideal for communications professionals with experience working with national, regional and local media at the intersection of public policy and strategic communications, particularly across technology, labor and healthcare issues. The ideal candidate understands how to turn policy developments into compelling media narratives, develop clear and effective messaging, and position spokespeople as credible subject matter experts.

This is a full-time role based in Washington, D.C., requiring an in-office presence of at least three days per week. To be qualified, candidates must currently reside in the DMV metro area.

RH Strategic is a well-established public relations agency with a robust client portfolio across technology, cybersecurity, healthcare, government, sustainability, and education industries. We are accepting applications from those who are curious about innovations shaping our future and who are interested in having an impact through meaningful storytelling.

Responsibilities may include

• Creating and executing media strategies and campaigns to meet client public affairs communications objectives.
• Building relationships with reporters, pitching stories, and securing media coverage.
• Monitoring news cycles and generating creative media angles for clients.
• Managing day-to-day client relationships, ensuring strategies align with business goals and acting as a strategic communications advisor to spokespeople and executives.
• Drafting and editing press releases, blog posts, bylines, pitches, and client communications.
• Supporting account teams through project management, research, reporting, and media targeting.
• Mentoring early career professionals and shaping their professional growth.

What we're looking for

• Capitol Hill staff and/or federal government agency experience.
• Public relations firm experience.
• A passion for storytelling, news, and the evolving media landscape.
• Strong writing, editing, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Demonstrated interest in technology, healthcare, cybersecurity, sustainability, and education industries.
• Experience in public affairs, communications, or journalism (ranging from mid-level to senior leadership).

Requirements

• 5-10 years of public affairs, media relations or communications experience, including PR firm experience.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and deliver high-quality work.
• Strong writing and editing skills, with familiarity in AP Style.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, clients, and media.
• Creative and critical thinker who can bring fresh ideas to client campaigns.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced environment and energized by variety in your work.
• Receptive to feedback and committed to continuous learning and growth.
• Team player who makes projects better through your involvement and is excited to contribute to award-winning work.

Pay and Benefits

Salary: $95,000-$120,000 annually.

This is the pay range the Company believes it will pay for this position at the time of this posting. Consistent with applicable law, compensation will be determined based on the skills, qualifications, and experience of the applicant along with the requirements of the position, and the Company reserves the right to modify this pay range at any time. The Company may, in its discretion, also offer an annual bonus in an amount, if any, to be determined by the Company. Bonuses are not guaranteed.

Benefits

For this role, the Company offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Insurance: 100% paid base premium for the employee's medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurances.
• Transportation Subsidy: $100 per month.
• Paid Time Off: 16 days of annual PTO, 12 firm holidays, 1 floating day off, and 1 paid day of service.
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan with automatic, fully vested match.
• Stipends: Professional development and wellness.

RH Strategic is committed to being an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We will not be able to respond to every submission. No calls, recruiters, or offers for contract work, please.