Director of Public Relations

Onward Search is a specialized staffing and talent solutions company that helps professionals find top jobs with the nation’s leading brands. We’re hiring a Director of Public Relations for a hybrid role. This is a full-time permanent opportunity with a fast-growing, multi-location fitness and wellness brand known for its energetic, purpose-driven culture and commitment to helping people live healthier, more active lives.

You’ll join the Marketing and Communications team to lead public relations strategy, media engagement, and reputation management across a national network of fitness centers.

Director of Public Relations Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive external communications and media relations strategy aligned with company objectives.
• Elevate brand awareness and credibility through proactive media engagement and storytelling.
• Manage and maximize the value of PR agency partnerships through strategic planning and performance oversight.
• Collaborate with agency partners on proactive initiatives, issues management, and crisis communications.
• Monitor media coverage, public sentiment, and emerging trends to identify risks and opportunities.
• Partner with the Director of Social Media to ensure message consistency and manage reputational matters across channels.
• Coordinate media inquiries, speaking engagements, awards submissions, and community outreach.
• Review and oversee all press materials, including releases, media alerts, talking points, and briefing documents.
• Manage the company’s speaker bureau and identify opportunities for executive visibility and thought leadership.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Fitness Programming, Risk & Compliance, and other departments to ensure message alignment.
• Oversee PR tools, vendor platforms, and budget management.
• Provide monthly, quarterly, and annual reports on PR performance and outcomes.
• Foster professional growth and development within the marketing team and manage one direct report.

Director of Public Relations Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or related field.
• 8–10 years of progressive experience in PR, communications, or corporate reputation management.
• Proven success developing and executing PR strategies for consumer-facing brands.
• Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Experience working directly with media and proficiency in AP Style.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships and influence across all organizational levels.
• Experience managing agency partnerships and PR vendor platforms.
• Skilled at balancing multiple priorities in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Comfortable working with hybrid and remote teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel).
• Strong interpersonal skills and a leadership style rooted in empathy and professionalism.
• Background or strong personal interest in the fitness, wellness, or active lifestyle industry (preferred).
• Experience managing PR for multi-location consumer service or retail environments (preferred).

Perks & Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time.
• Complimentary membership and guest privileges at company facilities.
• Discounts on personal training and wellness programs.
• Supportive leadership focused on professional development and collaboration.