Public Affairs Manager

About the Role

The Public Affairs Manager leads Visit Seattle’s in-market communications and local media relations in support of advocacy efforts that advance the collective interests of Seattle and King County’s hospitality industry. This role is responsible for developing and executing strategic communications initiatives that engage residents, businesses, and government stakeholders, strengthen community relationships, and elevate awareness of the industry’s economic and civic contributions.

What You’ll Do

Establish an integrated strategic communications plan to advance Visit Seattle’s brand identity and broaden awareness of our programs, priorities, and results.

Develop, integrate, and implement PR activities designed to enhance company brand in Seattle and King County.

Cultivate and maintain strong local media relationships related to advocacy.

Advance Visit Seattle’s position with our community partners and stakeholders.

Develop content for varied and integrated communications products including newsletters, online communications and public relations.

Work with the Chief Engagement Officer and Senior Director of Communications & Public Relations to achieve organizational goals and objectives by administering local communications and public relations initiatives that support the organizational strategic plan.

Refine Visit Seattle’s core messages to ensure brand consistency.

Resolve public affairs issues in partnership with Chief Engagement Officer.

Serve as executive editor for the development, production, and maintenance of Visit Seattle’s internal and external communication vehicles.

Enhance meaningful relationships with targeted, high-level external audiences.

Maintain community contact database.

Prepare various reports, update position papers, articles, etc. as necessary to ensure that the Board, staff, and partners are kept informed of pertinent issues in a timely manner.

Role-model Visit Seattle’s core values: Inclusion, Impact, Commitment, and Excellence.

Promote and contribute to a positive, productive, safe, respectful, professional work environment and culture.

Performs other related duties and assignments as required.

Qualifications

Minimum two (2) years of professional experience in public affairs required.

Proven experience in writing articles, newsletters, speeches, speaking points and press releases required.

Experience working in Seattle/King County preferred.

Strong writing and excellent communications skills.

Strong comprehension and retention skills; and able to follow through with written and verbal instructions.

Detail oriented, capable of multi-tasking and handling high-stress situations.

Must be able to travel as directed.

Must have strong interpersonal skills to connect and build relationships with business contacts, elected officials and customers.

Consistently positive attitude, professional and collaborative demeanor.

Ability to be flexible, nimble and display incredible adaptability to changing needs.

What We Offer

Visit Seattle offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, along with a positive, purpose-driven workplace culture. Our culture is guided by our values of Inclusion, Impact, Commitment, and Excellence. We are passionate about championing our region as a world-class destination for travel and tourism and promoting the economic power of travel. 

Our benefits are always evolving, though here's a peek into your perks:

You'll have 15 days of Paid Time Off to start, with 12 paid office holidays and 1 Personal Holiday.

You'll have 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage paid for by Visit Seattle. In addition, Visit Seattle will cover 75% of premium for family coverage.

You'll receive an organization-paid ORCA card, and subsidized parking in the building's garage (restrictions apply).

You'll be reimbursed for monthly cell phone expenses.

You'll receive 401(k) with up to a 5% organization match.

Base salary range: $80,000 to $100,000 with an annual incentive up to 8%. Compensation decisions are based on experience and scope of responsibility. 

Our Commitment to Equity

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and deeply committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. We believe that diversity makes us stronger, more innovative, and better equipped to serve our communities. We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds and identities.

We do not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex, gender, gender identity, or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, military service or veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, age, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic makeup, marital status or military service. 

Visit Seattle strives to create a meaningful interview experience for candidates. If you need accommodation for a disability or for any other reason during the hiring process, please let us know.