Careers

Press Officer

New York, NY

The Manhattan Institute for Policy Research (MI) is a community of scholars, journalists, activists, and civic leaders united by a shared commitment to advancing economic opportunity, individual liberty, and the rule of law in America and its great cities.

About the Role

MI is seeking a Press Officer to play a central role in shaping how MI’s work is portrayed in the public sphere. Based in MI’s New York City office and reporting to the Director of Media Relations, this position will focus on tracking and responding to key policy debates, and building meaningful relationships with journalists, influencers, and key stakeholders to ensure MI’s research and scholars are positioned to weigh in effectively across online discussions, traditional media, and opinion journalism.

The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, digital environment, with a demonstrated ability to craft compelling narratives and drive high-profile media placements. Knowledge of the public policy landscape, prior broadcast booking experience, and a track record of effective social media engagement are preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Communications: Monitor relevant policy debates and media narratives, identifying opportunities for MI scholars to shape the discourse. Develop persuasive messaging that effectively frames the work of MI scholars across all platforms while adapting to evolving media landscapes.
• Influencer and Media Relations: Cultivate relationships with policy influencers across traditional and emerging media channels. Proactively pitch MI scholars and their work to journalists, editors, show bookers, and other media figures, including social media.

• Audience Strategy and Content Development: Research key audiences and craft tailored messaging strategies across platforms. Advise scholars in effective media engagement, including opinion writing, interviews, and social media strategies.

• Internal collaboration: Work closely across teams—marketing, research, external affairs, events, etc. —to ensure strategies are aligned across the organization.

Qualifications

• Alignment with MI’s priorities and enthusiasm for advancing its mission.
• Prior communications/media relations experience, preferably at an ideas-focused organization (e.g., media/publishing, think tank/advocacy, political campaigns/government).
• Self-starter with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines independently.
• Ability to create and implement innovative solutions to engage audiences.
• Proven track record of engaging with diverse online audiences to drive conversation and increase visibility.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with an eye for distilling complex ideas for various platforms.
• Deep familiarity with the political, media, and professional landscapes relevant to MI’s work.
• This position is based in our New York City office with an expectation of 3 days per week in the office.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary range: $70,000-$100,000/year, based on experience and skills.

MI offers generous benefits, including four weeks paid vacation, a Summer Fridays program, paid paternity/maternity leave, medical and dental coverage with HSA options, medical and dependent-care FSA, mental health benefits, remote medicine, paid company cell phone, life insurance, and a 401(k) with a company-funded match. MI staff also benefit from the opportunity to collaborate and socialize with prominent scholars in our policy space.

To apply, please fill out the form below. Be sure to include a resume and cover letter explaining both your interest in MI and your qualifications for the role.