Crisis Public Relations Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s fast-paced world, the role of a Crisis Public Relations Manager has become more crucial than ever before.

As information travels at lightning speed, the need for professionals who can adeptly navigate, manage, and mitigate crises in the public sphere becomes more pressing.

But what exactly does a Crisis Public Relations Manager do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the profile of an ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of crisis public relations management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Crisis Public Relations Manager job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Crisis Public Relations Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Crisis Public Relations Managers handle communications during time-sensitive crises that could potentially damage the public image and profitability of a company.

They must craft and deliver clear, effective corporate responses to mitigate any negative impacts.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Developing crisis communication strategies and plans to safeguard the company’s reputation
• Monitoring public opinion and media coverage to assess potential crises
• Coordinating and communicating with media outlets during crisis situations
• Providing advice on possible public relations implications of company decisions and actions
• Writing and editing press releases, speeches, and public statements to address the crisis
• Collaborating with other departments to ensure a unified and timely response to crises
• Organizing and conducting media training for company spokespersons
• Conducting post-crisis analysis to evaluate response effectiveness and make necessary adjustments
• Keeping up-to-date with current events and trends that may impact the company

 

Crisis Public Relations Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a Crisis Public Relations Manager who can effectively manage and mitigate crises that may impact our organization’s reputation.

The role involves planning, developing, and implementing PR strategies, as well as liaising with and answering enquiries from media, individuals, and other organizations.

Our ideal candidate has excellent judgement in high-pressure situations, strong media relationships, and a track record of successful crisis management.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement crisis PR strategies to protect the organization’s reputation.
• Liaise with media and handle enquiries during crisis situations.
• Plan, develop and implement public relations strategies.
• Manage communication budgets, deadlines, objectives, and schedules.
• Prepare and manage press releases, speeches, presentations and PR campaigns.
• Analyze public opinion and adapt strategies accordingly.
• Train staff on crisis communication best practices.
• Monitor, analyze and communicate PR results regularly.
• Coordinate with other departments (marketing, legal, etc.) to ensure consistent messaging.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Public Relations Manager or similar role.
• Experience managing media relations (online, broadcast and print).
• Strong experience in crisis management.
• Background in researching, writing and editing publications.
• Proficient in MS Office and social media.
• Strong communication ability (oral and written).
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to work well under pressure.
• BSc/BA in Public Relations, Journalism, Communications or a related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Crisis Public Relations Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional travel. Availability after hours for crisis management may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Communications or Public Relations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $130,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Crisis Public Relations Manager Do?

A Crisis Public Relations Manager is a specialized PR professional who handles situations that could damage the public image or reputation of a company or individual.

They work in a variety of sectors including corporations, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.

In times of crisis, they act as the main point of contact for the media and the public.

These professionals develop strategies and responses to mitigate the impact of a crisis on their client’s image.

This could include drafting press releases, managing social media responses, coordinating interviews, and other actions aimed at controlling the narrative around the crisis.

A Crisis Public Relations Manager often works with other members of a company’s leadership team, including legal counsel, to ensure all communications align with the company’s legal responsibilities and overall strategy.

Their role also involves proactively identifying potential threats to the client’s reputation and creating contingency plans to address these issues should they arise.

During a crisis, they ensure that accurate information is disseminated in a timely manner to prevent the spread of rumors or misinformation.

They also assess the effectiveness of their crisis communication strategies, making adjustments as necessary.

In addition to their crisis management duties, Crisis Public Relations Managers may also handle other PR tasks, such as managing relationships with the media, influencers, and other key stakeholders.

They can also be involved in training company spokespeople to handle media interviews and public appearances.

 

Crisis Public Relations Manager Qualifications and Skills

A Crisis Public Relations Manager should possess a range of skills and qualifications to efficiently manage the company’s reputation during crisis situations, including:

• Outstanding communication skills to disseminate messages to various stakeholders, including the media, customers and employees, during a crisis situation.
• Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills to evaluate the potential impact of a crisis and develop suitable strategies to mitigate damage.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to identify the root cause of the crisis and devise effective solutions to manage it.
• Strong leadership and decision-making abilities to lead the crisis management team and make strategic decisions in high-pressure situations.
• Good understanding of media landscape and social media platforms to manage the company’s public image and control the narrative during a crisis.
• Ability to work well under pressure and remain calm during crisis situations to ensure the effective handling of the crisis.
• Experience in crisis management or public relations, along with a degree in communication, public relations or a related field.

 

Crisis Public Relations Manager Experience Requirements

Crisis Public Relations Managers typically need a minimum of 5 to 7 years of public relations experience, with a specific focus on crisis management.

This experience could be garnered through roles such as Public Relations Specialist, Communications Manager, or Media Relations Coordinator.

Candidates should have a demonstrated history of managing and responding to crises or emergencies in a public relations context.

They should have experience in developing and implementing crisis communications strategies and managing communications during a crisis.

Those with more than 7 years of experience often have substantial expertise in crisis management, media relations, and strategic communications.

They may have experience leading a team and coordinating with other departments during crises.

Potential Crisis Public Relations Managers with over 10 years of experience may have held senior leadership roles within the public relations field, and have a proven track record of effectively managing multiple high-stakes crises.

They would be well-suited to take on the role of overseeing and guiding a company’s crisis communications strategy.

 

Crisis Public Relations Manager Education and Training Requirements

Crisis Public Relations Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or a related field.

It’s crucial for them to have a strong understanding of public affairs, media relations, and crisis management.

They must be able to think critically and strategize effectively during high-pressure situations.

Some positions may require Crisis Public Relations Managers to have a master’s degree in public relations, communications, business administration or a relevant field.

Experience in the industry is highly valued, and internships during college can provide practical understanding of how to manage a public relations crisis.

Additionally, some professionals in this role may choose to become certified through organizations such as the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) which offers a certification in crisis management.

This certification can demonstrate a high level of competency and commitment to the field.

Continuing education is important in this role, as trends in media and communications continue to evolve.

Therefore, ongoing training courses and seminars can keep Crisis Public Relations Managers up-to-date and ready to handle any situation.

 

Crisis Public Relations Manager Salary Expectations

A Crisis Public Relations Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $64,960 (USD) per year.

The actual income can vary depending on factors such as experience, qualifications, the size of the organization, and location.

 

Crisis Public Relations Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Crisis Public Relations Manager need?

A Crisis Public Relations Manager should possess excellent communication and decision-making skills.

They should be able to act swiftly and efficiently during crisis situations to ensure that the organization’s reputation remains intact.

This role also requires strong problem-solving abilities, strategic thinking, and the ability to work under pressure.

Moreover, they should have strong media relations skills to communicate effectively with journalists and other media personnel during a crisis.

 

Do Crisis Public Relations Managers need a degree?

While there isn’t a specific degree required for a Crisis Public Relations Manager, most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or a related field.

Some also prefer candidates with an advanced degree in crisis management or public relations.

Moreover, relevant work experience in public relations or crisis management is often crucial.

 

What should you look for in a Crisis Public Relations Manager resume?

Look for a degree in a relevant field and experience in managing public relations, particularly in crisis situations.

The candidate should have experience in creating and implementing crisis communication plans, handling media relations, and making quick decisions under pressure.

Demonstrated knowledge of various public relations tools and platforms, as well as a solid understanding of the industry in which your organization operates, can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Crisis Public Relations Manager?

A good Crisis Public Relations Manager is calm under pressure, strategic, and quick-thinking.

They should have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to manage the message during a crisis.

They also need to be persuasive and able to negotiate with media and other stakeholders.

Good problem-solving skills, resilience, and the ability to work well in a fast-paced environment are also key.

 

How does a Crisis Public Relations Manager handle a crisis?

A Crisis Public Relations Manager’s main responsibility during a crisis is to protect the organization’s reputation.

This involves creating a crisis communication plan, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, and managing the organization’s message to the public.

They provide guidance to the organization’s leadership, handle media relations, and monitor public reaction to ensure the crisis is being managed effectively.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true responsibilities of a Crisis Public Relations Manager.

Surprise, surprise, it’s not just about managing crises.

It’s about shaping the public image, one crisis at a time.

With our ready-to-use Crisis Public Relations Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re primed to make your next move.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating precise job listings or tweaking your resume to absolute perfection.

Remember:

Every crisis managed is a step towards a better brand image.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become a Crisis Public Relations Manager (Complete Guide)

The Modern Workforce: Trending Jobs That Are Changing the Game

Unusual Work Wonders: Jobs That Break the Mundane Mold

Satisfying Success: Careers That Feel Good Every Day

Dream Big: The Most Prestigious Careers to Aspire For