ABOUT THE ROLEThe Public Relations Manager is responsible for developing and executing strategic media relations initiatives that enhance the visibility and reputation of Baker Botts across key practice areas and geographies. This role is primarily focused on the firm's U.S. offices and will also collaborate closely with lawyers and communications professionals in international offices to ensure consistent, cross-border messaging.
This individual will lead media relations for the firm's Litigation and Tax departments, each of which includes highly ranked, market-leading practices in sectors such as energy, technology and renewables.
The ideal candidate will bring law firm experience and a strong network of media contacts in legal, business, energy, technology, and trade publications. They should be a strategic thinker and tactical executor who can navigate complex legal topics, quickly identify opportunities, and position firm lawyers and matters with high-value media.
WHAT YOU'LL DOPrimary Responsibilities- Create, schedule, and publish content for LinkedIn, Instagram, and X; maintain the firmwide social media calendar.
- Design branded graphics and collaborate with Marketing & Brand to ensure visual consistency.
- Promote earned media, press coverage, and firm achievements across social channels and the online newsroom.
- Support attorneys with LinkedIn content and provide profile-development guidance.
- Draft and Develop and implement proactive PR strategies in partnership with the Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Manager, Communications to elevate the firm's profile.
- Manage national and trade media relations campaigns for Litigation and Tax practices.
- Maintain strong, existing relationships with journalists at top-tier national, legal, energy and technology media outlets.
- Identify, shape, and pitch compelling storylines and media opportunities related to client work, industry trends, legal matters, and firm developments.
- Support and prepare lawyers for media interviews and public speaking opportunities.
- Draft press releases, deal announcements, and media talking points; oversee distribution and reporting.
- Monitor industry news and coverage for media opportunities and risks; respond quickly to breaking news with relevant firm insights.
- Develop and maintain media lists and editorial calendars that align with the firm's strategic priorities.
- Collaborate across departments and with international colleagues to support firmwide campaigns and initiatives.
- Serve as a spokesperson when appropriate or assist firm leadership in responding to media inquiries.
- Oversee relationships with external PR vendors and ensure quality deliverables and performance.
- Evaluate media coverage and effectiveness of PR initiatives, and report metrics regularly.
- Other duties as assigned.
WHAT YOU'LL BRINGRequired- Bachelor's degree required.
- Minimum of 7 years of experience in PR or media relations, with time at a law firm or professional services environment.
- Must have strong media contacts in:
- National business outlets
- Legal publications
- Energy and infrastructure press
- Technology and IP trades
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Deep understanding of law firm structure and the unique sensitivities of legal PR.
- Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Experience with media monitoring and PR platforms such as Meltwater, Roxhill, Cision, and Muck Rack strongly preferred.
- Exceptional time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage competing deadlines.
- Ability to work independently, think critically, and handle sensitive or confidential information with discretion.
- Willingness to work outside of standard business hours, including evenings or weekends, as needed.
SUCCESS IN THIS ROLEWithin the first 6-12 months, a high performer will have built trusted relationships with key lawyers, communications colleagues, and priority media contacts; developed and executed proactive media strategies for the Litigation and Tax departments; secured high-value coverage that elevates the firm's visibility in legal, business, energy, technology, and trade outlets; and established disciplined processes for tracking opportunities, measuring results, and responding quickly to time-sensitive media needs. Success in this role also requires sound judgment, discretion, strong writing, responsiveness, and the ability to translate complex legal and industry developments into compelling, reputation-enhancing stories.
HOW YOU'LL WORKExtent of Contact Internal:- Frequent interaction with Client Development team and firm leadership
- High-touch collaboration with partners and attorneys across U.S. offices
- Coordination with international lawyers and communications colleagues
External:- Extensive contact with journalists, editors, and PR industry contacts
- Occasional coordination with vendors and consultants
Physical Requirements- Must be able to work at a computer and on the phone for extended periods.
- Ability to lift up to 10 pounds.
- Function effectively in a standard office environment.
Working Conditions and Environment- Standard office setting with a hybrid work schedule (minimum three days per week in the office).
- Full-time role requiring a five-day workweek.
- Occasional travel may be necessary.
- Flexibility required to accommodate urgent media needs or time-sensitive opportunities.
COMPENSATIONBaker Botts L.L.P. offers a competitive total rewards package, including salary, health and welfare benefits, retirement savings, paid time off, and professional development support.
- Washington DC Office: $170,000 - $200,000 annually
- New York Office: $170,000 - $200,000 annually
- California Offices: $170,000 - $200,000 annually
Actual compensation will be commensurate with experience, qualifications, and market conditions.
