Walker Sands is looking for a talented Associate PR Director to join our team as a hybrid employee in one of our offices in Chicago, Boston or Seattle. As an Associate PR Director, you will
lead PR programs end-to-end - from high-level strategy through flawless execution - and do so with confidence, clarity, and authority in front of clients. You'll shape narratives around some of the most transformative technologies in the market, build influential media relationships, and guide integrated programs that elevate brand awareness, credibility, and reputation.
You'll also serve as a leader within the agency, mentoring teams, contributing to our culture , and helping shape the future of our Strategic Communications department.
What You Will Do (Responsibilities): - Strategic Leadership
- Own the development of integrated communications strategies for B2B tech clients, especially in industries like IT, Cybersecurity, data, and AI
- Confidently lead clients through strategic recommendations, program planning, and decision-making
- Translate business goals and technical concepts into compelling, differentiated narratives
- Stay ahead of emerging trends in tech, media, and communications, and effectively surface these trends to internal teams and clients
- Program Ownership + Execution
- Lead PR programs from strategy through execution ensuring excellence at every stage
- Guide teams in delivering high-impact media relations, thought leadership, and integrated communications initiatives
- Develop strong written content and newsworthy pitches that align with client's business objectives and coach teams to do the same
- Build relationships with a wide range of reporters, creators, analysts and publications to secure coverage across media types
- Maintain a deep understanding of the evolving GEO landscape and how PR can support AI visibility
- Bring an AI-forward mindset with an eye towards looking at how to incorporate AI into workflows and build new AI-first workflows
- Client Partnership
- Serve as a trusted advisor to clients through managing expectations, providing proactive counsel and navigating complex communications challenges with confidence
- Build positive rapport and trusted advisor relationships with clients
- Identify opportunities to expand and strengthen client relationships
- Participate and support new business efforts
- Team Leadership + Development
- Mentor and coach PR team members, fostering growth, expertise, and collaboration
- Contribute to department and agency culture
- Champion new tools, processes, and approaches that help to share internal frameworks that improve efficiency, quality, and strategic rigor
Non-Negotiables - You crave candid feedback. You embrace it as a powerful tool for growth.
- You're incredibly curious. You're always learning, always sharing, always pushing to get better.
- You're proactive. You don't wait for direction; you bring ideas, solutions, and momentum.
- You'recollaborative. You make the work better by working well with others.
- You build media authority. You maintain strong relationships, understand the evolving landscape, and help teams pitch strategically and effectively.
- You coach communicators. You develop team members into confident storytellers, media strategists, and client partners.
- You embody agency readiness. You stay steady in pace, navigate shifting priorities, and help your team do the same.
- You influence with credibility. You articulate a strong point of view, connect decisions to strategy, and guide teams and clients toward the right outcomes without force or ego.
What You Bring (Requirements):- Experience: 6+ years of B2B PR experience within an agency setting, with a preferred focus on deep tech including IT, AI, Cybersecurity, or Infrastructure
- Expertise: Deep expertise in evolving media landscape and the ability to craft compelling narratives around technical topics and engage with a mix of media types
- Leadership: Proven ability to lead PR programs and teams confidently from strategy to execution
- Client Management: Strong track record of advising senior level clients and managing complex, high-stakes programs
What We Offer (Compensation + Benefits):- Starting Salary: $85,000 - $96,000
- 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!
