Associate Media Relations Director

Walker Sands · Chicago · $85,000–$106,000 (stated in the posting)

Walker Sands is one of the fastest-growing integrated B2B marketing agencies in the world. We are looking for a high-impact Associate Media Relations Director to help fuel that continued growth. The starting salary for this role is expected to be between $85,000 and $106,000 per year.

As an agency, we exist to accelerate growth — for our clients, our people and the B2B industry. We partner with B2B technology and services companies, from high-growth Silicon Valley businesses to global Fortune 500 brands, to drive meaningful business results.

We’re looking for an experienced national media relations leader who knows what it takes to secure meaningful coverage for complex B2B companies. You’ll bring established relationships with national business and technology journalists, a proven track record of securing Tier 1 media opportunities, and the ability to turn challenging client narratives into compelling stories.

This is a hands-on role where you’ll personally drive high-impact media opportunities, develop and execute proactive earned media strategies, and manage and coach Media Relations Managers. You’ll also serve as a strategic partner to our PR account teams, contribute to new business opportunities, and help strengthen our national media relations capabilities as the media landscape continues to evolve.

What You Will Do (Responsibilities):

National Media Relations

Develop and execute proactive media strategies that translate complex B2B topics into compelling stories for national business, technology and broadcast outlets.
Personally lead high-priority media outreach to secure Tier 1 coverage and other meaningful media opportunities.
Identify new story angles, anticipate media trends and adapt strategies to improve client results.
Provide strategic media counsel and prepare executives for high-value media opportunities.

Team Leadership

Directly manage, coach and develop Media Relations Managers, providing feedback and accountability for performance.
Guide media strategy and execution across multiple client accounts, balancing priorities, resources and placement goals.
Partner with PR account leads to align media strategy with client objectives, manage expectations and address challenges.
Share expertise, lead trainings and develop resources that strengthen the broader Media Relations team.

New Business + Practice Development

Develop and present media relations strategies for new business pitches and identify opportunities to expand existing client relationships.
Collaborate with Social, Content, Paid and SEO/GEO teams to support integrated client programs.
Help evolve the Media Relations practice through emerging channels, AI-driven discovery and new approaches to building brand visibility.

What You Bring (Requirements):

7+ years of media relations or relevant journalism experience, including direct people management responsibilities. Previous agency experience preferred.
Proven success securing Tier 1 national business and technology coverage through proactive outreach, including for complex B2B companies.
Established relationships with national reporters, editors and producers that can generate meaningful media opportunities.
Experience independently leading complex, high-volume media relations programs with ambitious placement goals.
Experience advising senior marketing and communications stakeholders, managing expectations and presenting strategic recommendations.
Deep knowledge of at least one B2B industry and its relevant media landscape.
Familiarity with media monitoring and database platforms, along with emerging AI tools for media research, planning and analysis.

What We Offer (Compensation + Benefits):

Starting Salary: $85,000 - $106,000

Base salary is only a part of the total rewards package. Placement on the salary scale will be determined by a variety of factors to ensure internal equity.
Starting salaries are not inclusive of a full range of compensation for this role and are instead meant to reflect the expected beginning salary for a new hire. Merit-based increases can be earned after time in role.

💰Bonus Potential: This role will be eligible for a bonus based on company performance.
🌱Growth Opportunities: Clear career paths, mentorship programs, and learning events to help you grow professionally.
🌴Flexible PTO and Hybrid Work: Take time as needed for vacations, mental health, or personal days. Includes 8 paid holidays, half-day summer Fridays, and a week off between Christmas and New Year.
🩺 Health Coverage: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans. Mental health resources, pet insurance, and more.
📈Retirement Savings: Employer-matched 401(k) and access to financial planning services.
🛡️ Additional Protection: Life insurance, disability coverage, and other benefits that provide added financial security.
🧠 Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Free, confidential support for you and your household, including counseling, mental health resources, and help navigating life’s everyday challenges.
👶 Family Support: Paid leave for new parents and caregivers, plus policies for fertility treatment, pregnancy loss, adoption challenges, and more.

🎯 Performance & Coaching: Regular performance reviews, clear goal-setting, and ongoing coaching to help you understand expectations, grow your skills, and make progress in your career.
🎉 Milestone Sabbatical: Celebrate five years with a two-week sabbatical and a $2,000 gift.
🤝 Community & Belonging: Employee resource groups, volunteer opportunities, and programs designed to build connection across the agency.
🌟 Culture: Our agency offers an award-winning culture. Read more on our website here!

We strongly encourage people of color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and non-binary people, veterans, parents, and individuals with disabilities to apply. As an equal opportunity employer Walker Sands is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and welcomes everyone to our team.

In your application, please feel free to note which pronouns you use (For example – she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs, etc).

If you need reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know.

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