Senior Publicist
South By Southwest
Austin, TXThis is a Part Time Job
Job Purpose
SXSW is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Publicist to join our dynamic communications team. A chance to join one of the top media brands in the world, where our mission is to ''help creative people achieve their goals.'' The Senior Publicist will contribute to strategic communications efforts that strengthen and expand the visibility of SXSW across multiple industries. They will be responsible for contributing to and executing comprehensive media relations strategies that elevate the SXSW brand and its wide-ranging initiatives, including announcements, events, and programming. This role will work closely with both internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure consistent, impactful messaging, requiring excellent communication. It requires a proactive individual with a deep understanding of the media landscape, exceptional writing skills, and a proven track record of securing high-impact media coverage.
Duties & Responsibilities
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Develop and implement strategic public relations plans for SXSW events, programs, and announcements.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key media contacts across relevant industries (tech, film, music, business, lifestyle, etc.).
• Draft compelling press releases, media alerts, talking points, and other PR materials.
• Pitch stories and secure media coverage in top-tier local, national, and international outlets.
• Manage media inquiries and facilitate interviews with SXSW spokespeople and participants.
• Monitor media coverage and prepare comprehensive reports on PR campaign performance.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams, including marketing, programming, and partnerships, to ensure cohesive messaging.
• Identify and develop new media opportunities.
• Assist in crisis communications and issues management as needed.
• Liaise and support key talent, brand, and agency partners.
• Manage the work of a part-time junior employee, who will be responsible for coordinating press credentials for thousands of journalists.
Qualifications & Skills
Qualifications include
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in public relations, preferably within the entertainment, technology, or event sectors.
• Proven track record of securing significant media placements in diverse outlets.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong understanding of media relations best practices and the evolving media landscape.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with media monitoring tools and databases.
• Experience working with agencies is a plus.
• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, a related field, or equivalent experience.
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully:
• Prolonged periods of sitting or standing at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to lift up to 10 p ounds occasionally, as needed.
• Operation of standard office equipment, including computers, phones, and printers.
• May require occasional bending, reaching, kneeling, or climbing stairs.
• Ability to work outdoors, including exposure to varying temperatures or noise levels.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work Location & Schedule
The position is full-time and located in Austin, Texas. Our core business office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.mwith availability to work from the office four days a week. From January through March, you should expect to work additional hours, including evenings and weekends. You must also be available for the March event, which will have extended, on-site working hours.
