Public Relations Manager

Job Summary/Key Metrics:

Manage the development and execution of the annual PR calendar for all PCG brands (Schwinn, Mongoose, Kid Trax, IronHorse, Roadmaster and licensed brands) to drive sales and grow share. Oversee all lifestyle and non-endemic PR initiatives for PCG brands including product launches, promotions, brand and athlete promotions and brand partnerships. Write all press releases and report results to key stakeholders.

• Successful placement of product and stories in top 10 major lifestyle publications/websites/shows defined per brand (Schwinn, Mongoose and Kid Trax as key focus) 
• Strong relationships developed with key lifestyle and outdoor journalists and digital influencers 
• Strong relationships developed with celebrities and other influencers

STRATEGY, CONTENT, ACTIVATION and REPORTING:

• In conjunction with brand and sales teams, develop and execute annual PR strategy and calendar that elevates brand awareness, engages the consumer and drives sell through 
• Implement the public relations strategy for all brands, ensuring that communications are aligned with strategic brand direction 
• Prepare annual and campaign specific public relations plans 
• Write all brand press releases throughout the year; work cross-functionally to develop effective press materials: written, auditory and visual 
• Immediately produce content and push out product awards and athlete win communications across all platforms and channels 
• Monitor and measure PR progress and budget guidelines, and make changes to plans as needed, select and coordinate media product placement in US; use SAP to fulfill product request; work with bike shops across the US to build product for reviews, events and other placements
• Coordinate and monitor annual PR calendar and individual PR timelines and distribute monthly report to key stakeholders 
• Ensure production teams are proactively provided with all collateral needs in a timely manner 
• Manage and facilitate communication regarding key marketing activities and initiatives on both a daily and weekly basis 
• Ensure that all activities align with the brand "look & feel" 
• Identify key marketplace trends and develop recommendations to enhance our position within key media channels and customers 
• Proactively analyze PR results in order to refine and improve future communications, which continue to develop business opportunities and maximize sales 
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive and privileged information at all times 
• Pro-actively communicate wins, problems, and proposed solutions to key constituents in the decision-making process 
• Schedule and maintain communication with customer, vendors, and internal stakeholders 
• Develop complete understanding of product and markets served

EXTERNAL RELATIONSHIPS:

• Act as a brand spokesperson, setting and implementing the media relations strategy 
• Nurture and maintain relationships with members of the press 
• Develop on-going relationships with allied organizations and local celebrities 
• Negotiate contracts with vendors and outside resources on behalf of the client or company

TRAINING:

• Provide key in-house support, training, etc. to product managers, supported athletes, and others for PR needs 
• Train employees before speaking with the media

FINANCIAL:

• Plan and manage with the Senior Director of Marketing all projects associated with PR programs launched in the marketplace understanding effectiveness and ROI 
• Responsibility for monitoring PR budget allocation and reporting

OTHER:

• Follow internal control and company policies as set by company and job function 
• Contribute to the success of company by leading or assisting with other projects and tasks as assigned

(Required education based on requirements that are job-related and a business necessity; preferred education the same as required but not mandatory. Knowledge defined as a comprehensive body of information required by experience or study. Skill defined as a present, observable competence to perform a learned activity. Credentials and experience is the minimum level of education, experience, and certifications acceptable for the position.)

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism or related field 
• 3-5 years’ experience in PR/media relations management role, which includes product marketing experience 
• Demonstrated experience with product recalls & risk management 
• Demonstrated ability to prepare and present clear, concise, grammatically correct verbal and written information 
• Demonstrated ability to edit other’s work 
• Demonstrated ability to work independently 
• Demonstrated ability to handle multiple projects at once and manage tight deadlines 
• High degree of professionalism and diplomacy in relations with outside media contacts and internal departments 
• Enthusiastic with a high sense of urgency 
• Excellent interpersonal skills 
• Demonstrated ability to set and meet targets and goals 
• Experience preparing PR plans and strategy 
• High commitment and orientation to teamwork 
• Excellent decision making skills required with regard to media placement and utilization 
• Fluency in speaking and writing proper English 
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook 

Beneficial Qualifications:

• Experience in the bicycle and/or sporting goods industry 
• Experience with PR & media marketing to the IBD market 
• Experience in a multi-brand and multi-product line environment 
• Experience in a fast paced, agency setting beneficial 
• Skilled at riding various types of bicycles 
• Knowledgeable about bike, apparel and P&A technologies