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Freelancer Senior Manager, Earned Media

Chicago, Illinois, United States

Who We Are

Weber Shandwick is more than a leading global PR agency – we’re an engagement agency and we’re working in and around the cutting edge of the new media landscape. We’re storytellers, content creators, and we engage people IN the story. Our success is built on a deep commitment to client service and to our people. We embrace creativity and collaboration, and we engage stakeholders in new and creative ways to build brands and reputations.

Senior Manager, Earned Media Strategy (Consumer Practice)

Do you live at the intersection of culture and candy?

This isn't your average PR job. We're looking for a Senior Manager to help drive the cultural conversation for some of the most iconic brands on the planet.

You're a storyteller with a genuine passion for pop culture, a pro at navigating the media landscape, and you live for the thrill of landing a story that gets everyone talking. You understand what makes a brand moment go from a simple announcement to a viral sensation. If you thrive on creativity, have a deep love for brands that bring joy to millions, and are ready to make your mark, we want to hear from you.

How You'll Create Moments of Everyday Happiness:

  • Be a Culture Shaper: You won't just follow trends; you'll help create them. You will develop and execute innovative earned media campaigns that place our brands at the center of culture, from major sporting events like the Super Bowl to the daily conversations happening on social media.
  • Master the Media Game: From drafting killer pitches to building real relationships with top-tier journalists, podcasters, and snacking bloggers, you'll be the driving force behind our media strategy. Your goal: to secure high-impact coverage that feels both authentic and exciting.
  • Become a Trusted Partner: Serve as a key day-to-day contact for our clients, providing sharp, strategic counsel. You'll manage everything from high-stakes event logistics to program interplay, ensuring we deliver excellence every step of the way.
  • Fuel Our Creative Engine: You'll be a key voice in creative brainstorms, constantly bringing fresh ideas to the table. You'll help us develop realistic and accurate KPIs that prove our impact and share our wins to keep the whole team inspired.
  • Mentor and Lead: Guide and develop our junior staff, coaching them to become the next generation of communications superstars and fostering a team environment built on collaboration and gusto.

What You Bring to the Table:

  • A Proven Track Record: 5-7 years of public relations experience, with a deep passion for pop culture, sports, and consumer brands.
  • Media Relations Expertise: You have strong, existing relationships with media and influencers and a knack for turning those connections into incredible coverage. You're fluent in everything from traditional media to podcasts and Substack.
  • Strategic & Creative Thinking: You're a master at crafting compelling story angles, developing integrated media plans, and optimizing campaigns in real-time to maximize success.
  • Leadership & Collaboration: You know how to lead a team, manage complex projects, and work effectively with a diverse range of partners. Your communication and presentation skills are second to none.
  • Unmatched Passion: You have an infectious enthusiasm for the work (happy to raise your hand) and a relentless drive to deliver results.

Salary range: $50-$70 per hour

Where an employee or prospective employee is paid within this range will depend on, among other factors, actual ranges for current/former employees in the subject position; market considerations; budgetary considerations; tenure and standing with the company (applicable to current employees); as well as the employee’s/applicant’s background, pertinent experience, and qualifications.

Weber Shandwick is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Weber Shandwick recruits qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, ethnic or national origin, protected veteran status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status or citizenship status.

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