Marketing & Creative
A public relations specialist builds and protects a company’s reputation by working with journalists, publications and other outside audiences. The role pitches stories, writes press materials and prepares leaders for interviews and public moments.
Ways to hire
4options
contract, contract-to-hire, full-time and executive search
The role
Companies typically hire one ahead of a launch or funding announcement, during a period of public attention or crisis, or when they want steadier media coverage.
Typical responsibilities
Core skills
Tools and systems
Related titles
Typical background
Typically 3 to 6 years in public relations, journalism or communications, with a bachelor's degree in public relations, communications or journalism.
At a glance
The essentials for planning the hire: level, background, how you can hire and what the role typically pays.
Request talent
Share a few details and a marketing and creative recruiter will be in touch. There is no obligation and no cost to talk.
What happens next
Request talent
Takes about two minutes. A specialist recruiter will call you back within one business day.
By submitting, you agree that RUS Recruiting may contact you about this request. Read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
Send your resume once and a marketing and creative recruiter will match you to public relations specialist roles that fit your experience, pay expectations and the way you want to work. We only put you forward for roles you have said yes to, and it is always free.
FAQ
Straight answers to the questions employers and candidates ask about this role.
Still have a question?
Talk to a recruiter about your role or your search. We reply within one business day.
A public relations specialist builds and protects a company’s reputation by working with journalists, publications and other outside audiences. The role pitches stories, writes press materials and prepares leaders for interviews and public moments. Typical responsibilities include: pitch stories and announcements to journalists and editors; write press releases, media kits and fact sheets; prepare executives for interviews, panels and speaking engagements.
Look for media relations, press release writing, story pitching, crisis communication, media monitoring and relationship building. Experience with Cision, Muck Rack, Meltwater, Prowly and Microsoft 365 is common in this role.
Yes. Employers hire a public relations specialist on contract for projects, peak periods and cover, and contract-to-hire is a good way to confirm fit before a permanent offer. For long-term needs, most choose full-time placement.
A public relations specialist focuses on media relationships and public reputation. A communications specialist handles a wider range of messaging, including internal and executive communication. Hire public relations when press coverage is the goal, and a communications specialist when messaging needs to reach employees and customers too.
An agency suits short campaigns, specialized media contacts or a need for several skills at once. An in-house specialist knows your business deeply and responds quickly day to day. Many companies use an in-house specialist and add an agency for launches or crises.
Related roles
Every role in the practice is recruited by the same specialist team.
