Job Description
The Senior Earned Media & Relations Manager is a team leader responsible for developing and executing an integrated earned media strategy that elevates brand visibility, reputation, and engagement across traditional, digital, and emerging channels. This role supports the portfolio of brands within the Dog & Cat business unit - driving the storytelling that resonates with consumers, media, influencers, and industry stakeholders. This role will also fuel our Consumer Care team, establishing strategies to maintain strong consumer relations and business reputation management. The ideal candidate combines strong leadership, exceptional media and consumer relations skills, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the evolving earned media landscape. Based out of our Neptune City, NJ facility, this position is onsite five days per week. MEASURES OF SUCCESS Earned Media Strategy & Execution: Develop and lead an integrated earned media portfolio strategy that aligns with brand and business priorities. Oversee press outreach, pitching, media list development, and relationship management with consumer, trade, and regional outlets. Identify and secure high-impact press opportunities including features, interviews, product placements, and thought leadership. Monitor media trends and industry insights to proactively identify storytelling opportunities. Support corporate communications, product launches, brand storytelling, crisis communications, and executive visibility initiatives. Support organic social media interaction and engagement. Consumer Care: Support operations of the consumer care function, ensuring timely, accurate, and brand-right responses across email, chat, phone, and social channels. Develop and optimize processes to improve response quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Analyze consumer feedback, service trends, and escalation data to identify root causes, propose solutions, and inform cross-functional partners. Oversee consumer issue resolution-including escalations, product complaints, replacements, and refunds-in alignment with regulatory, legal, and quality requirements. Team Leadership & Collaboration: Lead, mentor, and develop a team of specialists; provide coaching, goal-setting, and performance management. Oversee workflows, project resourcing, and prioritization across the earned media team. Partner cross-functionally with Brand, Creative, Digital, Sales, and Legal teams to ensure cohesive brand messaging. Serve as a trusted communications advisor to senior leaders and cross-functional partners. Measurement & Reporting: Set KPIs for earned media performance, including impressions, SOV, sentiment, reach, and outlet quality. Oversee tracking and reporting, providing regular insights and recommendations to leadership. Use analytics to inform strategy, identify optimization areas, and demonstrate ROI. IDEAL CANDIDATE ATTRIBUTES Required Skills & Experience: 8–10 years+ of experience in PR, social media or creative / communications (CPG, agency, lifestyle, or consumer brands preferred). Proven track record securing meaningful press results across national, trade, and digital outlets. Proven track record of developing breakthrough strategies and storytelling for organic social and emerging channels. Experience managing and developing high-performing teams. Strong media relationships and excellent pitching skills. Exceptional writing, messaging, and storytelling capabilities. Experience managing PR agencies, vendors, and partners. Ability to operate in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities. Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, or related fields. Preferred Skills & Experience: Experience with integrated communications, influencer marketing, and social amplification via third-party or in-house agency. Background in crisis communications or issues management. Experience in highly regulated or fast-evolving industries. Strong understanding of analytics tools available to optimize ROI. BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS: Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance. Free Life and Disability Insurance. Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts. 401 (k) with a 3% company match and annual employer discretionary contribution. Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time. Employee Assistance Program.