Job Details

Title: Public Relations Manager

As Public Relations Manager, you will play a key role in amplifying the Santa Barbara brand to target markets by generating earned media coverage. You will assist the Director of Public Relations and the department in showcasing the Santa Barbara South Coast as a premier travel destination, driving awareness and interest through timely, accurate, and compelling media relations.

What You'll Do:

• Craft engaging itineraries to showcase the best of the destination and coordinate all arrangements for media visits, including booking and confirming reservations with industry partners.
• Host visiting media on trips, with availability for evening and weekend events, and manage follow-ups post-visit, ensuring media receive necessary information and imagery.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with travel and lifestyle media and develop compelling story pitches to highlight the Santa Barbara South Coast.
• Fulfill media requests for information, photos, and B-roll, tracking requests in CRM and collaborating with industry partners to gather visual assets.
• Update the online press room and media resource library, including fact sheets, press trip materials, and interviews with Visit Santa Barbara spokespeople.
• Track and monitor earned media coverage, assist with press clip tracking, and compile reports on public relations activities and results.
• Provide support in crisis communications, helping the Director of Public Relations with assorted tasks as needed.

What You'll Need to Succeed:

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, media relations/public relations, marketing, or related field.
• 3 or more years of professional experience in media relations, public relations, or journalism.
• Strong media relations, editing, and research skills.
• Photography and video skills desired.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Detail-oriented with a high level of accuracy, including spelling and grammar.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Docs/Sheets, Adobe Acrobat and Photoshop.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Passionate about and knowledgeable of Santa Barbara South Coast communities and attractions.
• Knowledge of the current national and local media landscapes.
• Available to work in the office at least three days per week, with flexibility for evenings, weekends, and occasional travel.
• Must have a valid California driver's license, auto insurance, and access to a vehicle for business use.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 lbs. and transport materials for Visit Santa Barbara programs.

What Visit Santa Barbara Offers You:

• Comprehensive medical insurance fully covered by the employer.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching contributions.
• Paid vacation and sick leave.
• 9 paid holidays.
• Cell phone reimbursement.
• Opportunities to explore and engage with local hospitality businesses.
• Flexible work options, including up to two remote workdays per week.

Compensation:

Salary range between $75,000 - $90,000 annually. Compensation will be determined by a number of factors including educational background and experience.

About Visit Santa Barbara:

Visit Santa Barbara is dedicated to offering top-notch service and information to visitors and travel professionals, ensuring an exceptional experience in our destination. We collaborate with travel agents, tour operators, and international wholesalers to craft memorable itineraries and provide promotional support.

For more information about the company, please visit our website:

Visit Santa Barbara provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Visit Santa Barbara complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment at its location.