Media Relations Manager (Bureau Manager)

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive media relations strategies that elevate the City of Norfolk’s priorities and support proactive communication.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, editors, producers and communications partners across print, broadcast and digital media.
• Draft, edit and distribute press releases, media advisories, briefings, talking points and prepared remarks.
• Plan and facilitate press conferences, interviews and media events, including logistics, messaging and speaker preparation.
• Monitor news coverage, trends and emerging issues; provide regular analysis and recommendations to department leadership.
• Collaborate with internal departments to identify story opportunities and ensure consistent messaging across initiatives.
• Prepare leadership and subject matter experts for media engagement through coaching, briefing materials and message alignment.
• Manage crisis communications activities in partnership with leadership, ensuring timely and coordinated response.
• Maintain media contact lists, evaluation metrics and reporting on outreach efforts and coverage.
• Support digital and social media integration into media strategies as needed.

Requirements

• A minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in public relations, strategic communications or media relations is required.
• A bachelor’s degree is required.
• Experience working in government, public sector communications, or high profile organizational environments.
• Crisis communications training or experience managing sensitive or high visibility public messaging.
• Familiarity with media monitoring tools, analytics platforms, and newsroom software.
• Experience preparing executives or public figures for media engagement.
• Valid Driver's License required.

Benefits

• competitive pay and a strong retirement package