Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day execution of public relations strategy and enhance the association’s brand, visibility and reputation.
• Serve as a key liaison between GCSAA, the media and industry stakeholders, driving strategic communications and media relations efforts aligned with organizational goals.
• Oversee efforts to build brand awareness by cultivating relationships with journalists, bloggers and influencers; securing media coverage; executing campaigns; analyzing public sentiment.
• Represent GCSAA at golf tournaments and industry events.
• Enhance the image, reputation and professionalism of GCSAA and its members.
• Plan and execute strategic public relations campaigns aligned with organizational objectives.
• Manage media relations, including pitching stories, coordinating interviews and securing coverage across outlets.
• Edit materials including press releases, media advisories, talking points and digital content
• Build and maintain relationships with media, stakeholders and internal teams
• Crisis communication/reputation management as needed

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations or related field, or equivalent work experience
• Minimum three to five (3–5) years of experience in public relations, media relations or communications
• Strong experience managing media relations, including pitching stories, coordinating interviews and securing coverage across local, regional and national outlets
• Experience analyzing media coverage and audience sentiment to inform strategy and reporting
• Familiarity with AP Style and media monitoring/distribution tools such as Meltwater or comparable platforms
• Solid knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite/ability to learn new platforms; experience with CMS or HTML a plus
• Ability to travel up to 15%
• Position must live within a commutable distance from our headquarters office in Lawrence, KS
• Ability to plan and execute strategic public relations campaigns aligned with organizational objectives
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills with the ability to tailor messaging to diverse audiences as well as editing materials including press releases, media advisories, talking points and digital content

Nice To Have

• Experience with CMS or HTML
• Knowledge of turf grass management/agronomy valued but not required

Benefits

• generous paid leave
• hybrid (2 remote days/week) work schedule
• year-round casual attire
• staff fun events
• wellness incentives
• community involvement opportunities