Witt/Kieffer is hiring: Public Relations Director in Chicago

Public Relations Director - Celeste Group

Position Title: Public Relations Director

Location: Celeste Group, Chicago

Job Type: Full-Time

Reports to: Creative Director

Celeste Group, a premier hospitality collective in Chicago, is looking for an experienced and strategic Public Relations Director. This individual will lead the PR efforts for our portfolio of restaurant and nightlife concepts, driving brand visibility, cultivating media relationships, and managing all press communications. The ideal candidate has a strong background in PR, a deep understanding of the hospitality industry, and a proven track record of successful media placements and partnerships.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic PR Planning
   1. Develop and execute comprehensive public relations strategies for each concept within the group, aligning with brand goals and target audiences.
   2. Craft annual PR calendars, setting priorities for media outreach, influencer collaborations, and major events across the group’s venues.
   3. Identify new PR opportunities and industry trends to elevate brand visibility.
2. Media Relations
   1. Build and maintain relationships with local, regional, and national media, securing feature stories, interviews, press coverage, and listings.
   2. Serve as the primary point of contact for all press inquiries, ensuring consistent and positive messaging across channels.
   3. Organize and host media events, tastings, and venue tours to engage media and create buzz around new openings, seasonal changes, and high-profile events.
3. Influencer and Partnership Management
   1. Identify and cultivate relationships with key influencers and brand partners to expand the group’s reach and reputation.
   2. Develop partnership strategies with relevant brands to create mutually beneficial PR and marketing opportunities.
   3. Collaborate on influencer outreach, including the coordination of event invites and collaborations that align with the brand's image and goals.
4. Content Creation and Storytelling
   1. Collaborate with the marketing and creative teams to develop press materials, including press releases, media kits, fact sheets, and story pitches.
   2. Craft compelling narratives around new concepts, seasonal menus, unique events, and the group’s brand story to captivate target audiences.
   3. Manage crisis communications, providing clear and accurate messaging that maintains brand integrity.
5. Event Coordination and Execution
   1. Collaborate with the marketing team to plan and oversee high-profile events, media dinners, and product launches that drive brand awareness and press coverage.
   2. Manage guest lists and ensure the presence of high-impact media and influencers at major events.
6. Reporting and Analytics
   1. Track and analyze PR metrics to measure the success of media placements, partnerships, and campaigns.
   2. Provide regular reports to the leadership team on media impressions, sentiment, and the impact of PR efforts on brand perception and guest engagement.
   3. Use data insights to refine PR strategies and improve future campaign performance.

Qualifications:

1. Experience: 5-7 years of experience in public relations, preferably within the hospitality or lifestyle industry, with proven media relationships and a portfolio of successful placements.
2. Education: Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or a related field is preferred.
3. Skills: Strong writing and communication skills, media outreach experience, proficiency in PR software and analytics tools, and strong event planning abilities.
4. Attributes: Highly organized, strategic thinker, with the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment; a positive and collaborative attitude; strong media acumen and attention to detail.

Benefits:

• Full Insurance Benefits in 30 days
• Paid Time off
• Paid Leave
• Health, Dental & Vision
• Employee discounts
• Work Life Balance & more.

Location: 111 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, IL 60654

EEO Statement
Celeste Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

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