Public Relations Manager in Palo Alto, CA

Law Firm

Palo Alto, CA

Public Relations Manager in Palo Alto, CA

Law Firm Non Legal Department

Min 7 yrs required

No

Job Title: Public Relations Manager

Job Responsibilities:

The Public Relations Manager at the law firm is tasked with the development and execution of strategic media relations initiatives to boost the visibility and reputation of the firm across various practice areas and geographical locations. Reporting directly to the Senior Manager, Communications, the role is focused on the . offices and involves collaboration with international offices to ensure consistent messaging across borders.

Key responsibilities include:
- Developing and implementing proactive public relations strategies in partnership with the Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Manager, Communications.
- Managing national and trade media relations campaigns for the Corporate, Global Projects, and Intellectual Property departments.
- Maintaining strong relationships with journalists at top-tier national, legal, energy, technology, and IP media outlets.
- Identifying, shaping, and pitching compelling storylines and media opportunities related to client work, industry trends, legal matters, and firm developments.
- Supporting and preparing lawyers for media interviews and public speaking opportunities.
- Drafting press releases, deal announcements, and media talking points, and overseeing their distribution and reporting.
- Monitoring industry news and coverage for media opportunities and risks, and responding quickly to breaking news with relevant firm insights.
- Developing and maintaining media lists and editorial calendars aligned with the firm’s strategic priorities.
- Collaborating across departments and with international communications colleagues to support firmwide campaigns and initiatives.
- Serving as a spokesperson when appropriate or assisting firm leadership in responding to media inquiries.
- Overseeing relationships with external PR vendors to ensure quality deliverables and performance.
- Evaluating media coverage and effectiveness of PR initiatives, and reporting metrics regularly.
- Performing other duties as assigned by the Chief Marketing Officer or Senior Manager.

Education and Experience Information:

To qualify for the Public Relations Manager position, candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree. Additionally, a minimum of 7 years of experience in public relations or media relations is required, particularly with experience in a law firm or professional services environment.

Candidates should have strong media contacts in:
- National business outlets
- Legal publications
- Energy and infrastructure press
- Technology and IP trades

Candidates should also exhibit excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, a deep understanding of law firm structures, and the unique sensitivities of legal public relations. Proficiency in MS Office applications and experience with media monitoring and PR platforms such as Meltwater, Roxhill, Cision, and Muck Rack are strongly preferred. Exceptional time management, organizational skills, and the ability to manage competing deadlines are essential. The role requires the ability to work independently, think critically, and handle sensitive or confidential information with discretion. A willingness to work outside of standard business hours, including evenings or weekends, as needed, is also required.

Salary Information:

For positions based in the California, New York, or Washington . offices, the salary range is $170,000 - $200,000. Actual compensation will be based on a combination of factors.

Extent of Public Contact:

Internal:
- Frequent interaction with the Client Development team and firm leadership.
- High-touch collaboration with partners and attorneys across . 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:

The role requires the ability to work at a computer and on the phone for extended periods. The ability to lift up to 10 pounds is necessary, and the candidate must function effectively in a standard office environment.

Working Conditions:

The position is set in a standard office environment with a hybrid work schedule requiring a minimum of three days per week in the office. It is a full-time role requiring a five-day workweek, and occasional travel may be necessary. Flexibility is required to accommodate urgent media needs or time-sensitive opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

The law firm 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. The employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.