Director of Communications

Position Summary

The Director of Communications supports the execution of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership’s (PDP) marketing and communications strategy, with a strong focus on media relations, public relations, and external messaging.

Reporting to the Vice President of Marketing & Communications, this role serves as the organization’s primary day-to-day media contact, responsible for implementing proactive media outreach, securing earned media coverage, and ensuring consistent, high-quality communications across all external channels.

This position plays a critical role in shaping PDP’s public presence through effective storytelling, strong media relationships, and the development of compelling written content that supports the organization’s programs, events, and initiatives. This is a fast-paced, event-driven communications environment requiring agility, responsiveness, and strong execution across multiple priorities.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Media Relations & Public Relations Execution
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for day-to-day media inquiries
  • Execute a proactive media outreach strategy to secure coverage for PDP initiatives, events, and partnerships
  • Identify and pitch media opportunities that align with PDP priorities
  • Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, talking points, and press materials
  • Coordinate media logistics including interview scheduling, on-site media support, and follow-up
  • Prepare internal spokespeople for media engagements as needed; occasionally serve as a spokesperson when appropriate
  • Monitor media coverage, track earned media results, and provide regular reporting on performance
• Communications & Messaging Support
  • Ensure consistent application of PDP’s voice and messaging across all communications
  • Support the execution of integrated communications campaigns in alignment with organizational priorities
  • Assist in the development of messaging for announcements, initiatives, and public-facing efforts
  • Provide support for issues management and time-sensitive communications as needed
• Content Development & Channel Execution
  • Write, edit, and proofread content across PDP channels, including newsletters, website copy, reports, and promotional materials
  • Support the development and distribution of e-newsletters and e-blasts; monitor engagement and recommend optimizations
  • Collaborate with the Digital Media Manager to maintain accurate, up-to-date, and engaging website content
  • Contribute to key publications such as the Annual Report, seasonal guides, and campaign materials
• Event & Program Communications
  • Support communications and media outreach tied to PDP’s robust calendar of events and activations
  • Assist with on-site media coordination and real-time communications execution during events as needed
• Project Coordination & Team Support
  • Manage multiple communications projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines and quality standards are met
  • Coordinate and oversee intern support for communications tasks including content development and distribution

Desired Qualifications & Characteristics

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 5–7 years of experience in public relations, media relations, or communications
• Proven ability to pitch and secure earned media coverage
• Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills across multiple formats
• Experience executing communications plans and managing multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Familiarity with media monitoring tools and performance tracking
• Working knowledge of digital platforms including social media, SEO basics, and Google Analytics
• Experience with WordPress, Microsoft Office Suite, and Adobe Creative Suite (or similar tools)
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to work under pressure
• Collaborative, responsive, and proactive in identifying opportunities
• Willingness to work evenings/weekends and support outdoor events as needed
• Knowledge of Downtown Pittsburgh and its business/cultural landscape is a plus

Compensation:

Salary Range: $70,000 – $80,000

The PDP offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, 401k, life insurance, short and long-term disability, cell phone stipend, discounted parking, and transit pass.

About the Organization:

Downtown Pittsburgh is essential to the region–the metropolitan heartbeat where business, culture, and entertainment intersect. Formed by Downtown businesses, professionals, civic organizations, foundations, and residents, the PDP develops and implements innovative programs and initiatives to enhance the Downtown neighborhood. We also promote and market this great urban center to millions of people as the region’s premier destination to do business, to call home, or to visit for the best in shopping, dining, and entertainment. The PDP also stands as staunch advocates for all those who make Downtown part of their lives—from businesses to workers to residents.

The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership is an Equal Opportunity Employer
and 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.