📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Senior PR & Communications Manager
🔹 Company: Justworks
🔹 Location: New York, United States
🔹 Job Type: On-site
🔹 Category: Human Resources Services
🔹 Date Posted: April 7, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Overseeing PR, thought leadership, and the Speaker’s Bureau
- Managing relationships with external PR firms and driving media relations strategies
- Creating and executing PR campaigns, managing media storytelling processes, and building relationships with reporters
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams and executives to enhance brand visibility
- Analyzing industry trends and competitor activities to inform strategic decision-making
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong project management skills, and the ability to work effectively under tight deadlines. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in securing impactful media coverage and a solid existing network within the tech and business industries.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ PR & Thought Leadership:
- Own Justworks’ relationship with our external public relations firm, Small Girls PR
- Ideate, develop, and drive a successful media relations strategy
- Create PR campaigns that push the envelope and earn the buy-in of your peers
- Manage the media storytelling process end-to-end, overseeing direct reports and partnering with our PR firm to identify angles and targets, create assets like abstracts, pitches, and briefers, and prepare our spokespeople around key messages and Q&As
- Proactively build and nurture effective relationships with national and local tech and business reporters, as well as advise on how to break into new beats to reach the small business ecosystem
- Own and execute our data PR strategy, working with external polling/research agencies to develop surveys and reports for media consumption
- Write wire-ready press releases and craft media messaging for product launches and other key company news
- Oversee written Q&As and ghostwrite op-eds for press opportunities on topics across benefits, HR, business, and more; revise and edit op-eds with executives
- Work with our PR firm to evaluate and coordinate inbound press and interview requests with an eye to our strategic priorities, media themes, and storylines
- Ensure PR resources and processes are updated and easily accessible to key stakeholders (media list database, briefing materials, executive bios, executive headshots, fact sheets, etc.)
- Follow the news and keep us informed of industry trends, competitor activity, and news-jacking opportunities
- Ideate and manage the execution of PR-driven brand activations and manage associated budget
✅ Speaker’s Bureau:
- Oversee executive-level thought leadership and company-wide speaking opportunities end-to-end
- Ideate and execute thought leadership for owned brand events, including identification of executive and/or non-executive spokespeople and customer/partner/etc. outreach to secure participants, working closely with our Events, Field Marketing, and Partnerships teams
- Work with Events, Field Marketing, Content, Sales, BD, TA, and others to identify appropriate spokespeople for speaking engagements at sponsored (non-owned) events
- Develop thought leadership talk tracks, moderator scripts, support visual aid creation, and host presentation prep sessions
- Develop media strategy for events, work with SGPR to invite relevant contacts, create on-the-ground experience to support relationship building and brand awareness with key media outlets and influencers
- Staff events for on-the-ground thought leadership and spokesperson support
- Support speaker experience across owned channels (e.g., webinar, content) and internal channels (e.g., internal panels, super all hands) as appropriate
✅ Corporate Communications:
- Oversee processes and materials related to executing our PR, thought leadership, and speaker’s bureau programs (e.g., thought leadership log, executive speaker toolkits, moderator best practices, media training)
- Support Director, Communications in crisis communications
- Oversee a comprehensive approach for measuring and reporting on our PR, thought leadership, and speaker’s bureau strategies’ impact as it relates to building brand awareness and shaping perception in the marketplace
- Perform other related duties as assigned
ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills, as well as an aptitude for independent project management and execution. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working with data and have a passion for entrepreneurship.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or related field
Experience: 6+ years of external communications and media relations experience, with at least 4 years in an in-house role (ideally at a B2B/tech company)
Required Skills:
- Proven track record securing impactful media coverage
- Existing network of relevant media contacts
- Excellent organizational, written, and oral communication skills
- Ability to multitask, prioritize, and execute top-notch work against tight deadlines
- Creative thinker who comes to the table with conversation-driven story ideas and media angles
- Familiarity with PR reporting and media database tools, such as Muck Rack, Cision, PR Newswire, etc.
- Comfortable working with data or willing to learn/ask for help
- Knowledge of AP style with a willingness to use the Oxford comma
Preferred Skills:
- Passion for entrepreneurship
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the tech and business industries, as well as a solid grasp of the media landscape and trends. They will be comfortable working with data and have a proven track record in securing impactful media coverage.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $122,000.00 to $134,200.00 per year
Benefits:
- Great Benefits
- Wellness Program Offerings
- Company Retreats
Working Hours: 40 hours per week
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is based on market data for similar roles in the New York City area. Actual compensation is based on multiple factors that are unique to each candidate, including and not limited to skill set, level of relevant experience, and specific work location. For more information about Justworks’ Total Reward Philosophy, including all of the perks and benefits we are proud to offer our team members, please visit Total Rewards @ Justworks.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Human Resources Services
Company Size: 1,001-5,000 employees
Founded: 2012
Company Description:
- Justworks takes the busyness out of growing a business and alleviates the unknown
- We’ve combined a simple platform and exceptional 24/7 customer service with the power of a PEO, so all teams have more time to focus on what matters
- Get access to corporate-level benefits, seamless payroll, HR tools, and compliance support—all in one place
Company Specialties:
- Compliance
- Health Insurance
- Benefits
- 401k
- Payroll
- Vendor & Contractor Payments
- Employee Dashboard
- User Experience
- SaaS
- New Hire Reporting
- Tax Filing
- HR Software
- and Employee Perks
Company Website: Justworks
ASSUMPTION: Justworks is a well-established company in the HR services industry, focusing on providing a comprehensive suite of benefits and tools to help growing businesses manage their HR needs efficiently. They prioritize exceptional customer service and a user-friendly platform to ensure their clients can focus on their core business operations.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Senior-level role with potential for growth into a management or leadership position
Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Director of Communications
Work Arrangement: On-site, full-time position with the possibility of remote work for specific tasks or projects
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to take on additional responsibilities and grow into a management or leadership role within the Communications team
- Opportunity to work closely with executives and other departments to shape the company’s brand and messaging
- Chance to develop and refine skills in strategic communications, project management, and team leadership
ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth potential for the right candidate, allowing them to expand their skills and take on more responsibilities over time. The ideal candidate will be proactive, strategic, and eager to take on new challenges as the company continues to grow and evolve.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Modern, collaborative office space with open-plan workstations and dedicated meeting rooms
Office Location(s): 55 Water St, New York, NY, US
Geographic Context:
- New York City is a major global hub for finance, technology, and media industries
- The office is located in the Financial District, close to various transportation options and amenities
- The area is known for its vibrant culture, diverse food scene, and numerous entertainment options
Work Schedule: Standard business hours with flexibility for remote work or adjusted hours as needed
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in an office environment and be able to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative setting. They will be able to manage their time effectively and be open to flexible work arrangements when needed.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Initial phone or video screen with the Hiring Manager
- In-depth behavioral and skills-based interview with the Hiring Manager and a member of the Communications team
- Final interview with the Director of Communications and other key stakeholders
- Background check and reference check
Key Assessment Areas:
- Communication skills, both written and verbal
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Project management and organizational skills
- Cultural fit and alignment with Justworks’ values
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
- Be prepared to discuss your media relations strategy, campaign ideas, and past successes
- Showcase your understanding of the tech and business industries, as well as your familiarity with Justworks and its offerings
- Demonstrate your ability to work effectively under tight deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously
ATS Keywords: Public Relations, Media Relations, Strategic Communications, Thought Leadership, Speaker’s Bureau, Crisis Communications, Project Management, Campaign Development, Media Storytelling, Brand Awareness, Industry Trends, Competitor Analysis, Data PR, AP Style, Oxford Comma
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be proactive, strategic, and eager to take on new challenges. They will have a strong understanding of the tech and business industries, as well as a solid grasp of the media landscape and trends. They will be comfortable working with data and have a proven track record in securing impactful media coverage.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- PR reporting and media database tools, such as Muck Rack, Cision, PR Newswire, etc.
- Project management tools, such as Asana, Trello, or Jira
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Google Workspace (Gmail, Google Drive, Google Docs)
- CRM or marketing automation tools, such as HubSpot, Marketo, or Salesforce
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be comfortable working with a variety of tools and technologies, and be open to learning new platforms as needed. They will have a strong understanding of project management principles and be able to adapt to different workflows and processes.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Camaraderie - Day to day, you can be seen working together toward a higher purpose. You like to have fun. You’re an active listener, treat people respectfully, and have a strong desire to know and help others.
- Openness - Your default is to be open. You’re willing to share information, understand other perspectives, and consider new possibilities. You’re curious, ask open questions, and are receptive to thoughts and feedback from others.
- Grit - You demonstrate grit by having the courage to commit and persevere. You’re committed, earnest, and dive in to get the job done well with a positive attitude.
- Integrity - Simply put, do what you say and say what you’ll do. You’re honest and forthright, have a strong moral compass, and strive to match your words with your actions while leading by example.
- Simplicity - Be like Einstein: “Everything should be made as simple as possible, but no simpler.”
Work Style:
- Collaborative and team-oriented, with a focus on open communication and active listening
- Proactive and strategic, with a strong emphasis on results-driven decision-making
- Adaptable and flexible, with a willingness to take on new challenges and learn from feedback
- Data-driven and analytical, with a commitment to continuous improvement
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you align with Justworks’ values, particularly [specific value]?
- Describe a time when you had to adapt your work style to fit a new environment or team dynamic?
- How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with key media contacts?
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be a strong cultural fit for Justworks, embodying the company’s values and thriving in a collaborative, dynamic work environment. They will be proactive, strategic, and eager to take on new challenges, with a strong commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously, often under tight time constraints
- Navigating a fast-paced, dynamic work environment with shifting priorities and responsibilities
- Balancing the need for strategic, long-term planning with the demands of immediate, tactical execution
- Adapting to changes in the media landscape and industry trends, requiring continuous learning and adjustment of strategies
- Working effectively with external PR agencies and vendors to ensure alignment with company goals and brand standards
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and be able to adapt to changing priorities and responsibilities. They will be proactive, strategic, and eager to take on new challenges, with a strong commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is similar to a Communications Manager or Director of Communications role, with a focus on media relations, thought leadership, and brand awareness
- Unlike other roles in the industry, this position requires a strong understanding of the tech and business industries, as well as a solid grasp of the media landscape and trends
- This role offers significant growth potential for the right candidate, allowing them to expand their skills and take on more responsibilities over time
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the tech and business industries, as well as a solid grasp of the media landscape and trends. They will be proactive, strategic, and eager to take on new challenges, with a strong commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing and executing a successful media relations campaign for a new product launch, resulting in widespread coverage and positive brand sentiment
- Managing a crisis communications situation, ensuring accurate and timely information is disseminated to key stakeholders and the public
- Creating and implementing a thought leadership strategy that positions executives as industry experts and enhances brand visibility
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop and execute a comprehensive brand awareness campaign, integrating PR, marketing, and advertising efforts
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in developing and executing successful PR campaigns, as well as a strong understanding of the tech and business industries. They will be proactive, strategic, and eager to take on new challenges, with a strong commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe a time when you had to pivot your PR strategy mid-campaign due to unforeseen circumstances? How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?
- How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with key media contacts, particularly when working with an external PR agency?
- Can you walk me through your process for developing and executing a successful thought leadership strategy for an executive within our company?
- How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and competitor activities, and how do you incorporate this information into your PR strategies?
- Can you describe a time when you had to manage a crisis communications situation? How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be proactive, strategic, and eager to take on new challenges. They will have a strong understanding of the tech and business industries, as well as a solid grasp of the media landscape and trends. They will be comfortable working with data and have a proven track record in securing impactful media coverage.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
- Prepare for behavioral and skills-based interview questions, focusing on your media relations strategy, campaign ideas, and past successes
- Showcase your understanding of the tech and business industries, as well as your familiarity with Justworks and its offerings
- Demonstrate your ability to work effectively under tight deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Follow up with the Hiring Manager one week after submitting your application to confirm receipt and inquire about the next steps in the interview process
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
