Manager, Public Outreach

Job Type Full-time Description

Southwest Strategies Group is seeking a full-time Manager to join our San Jose team. The Manager provides in-depth support to SWS Group clients by regularly working at a client location and immersing themselves in the client’s company culture, vision, and project. We are seeking an individual who is ready to support unique communications needs by developing tailored strategies and tactics that get results. We want strong writers and researchers – those who enjoy jumping in and learning everything they can about a client or project.

About Southwest Strategies Group

Southwest Strategies Group is focused on building leaders in our industry and community. With more than 130 professionals from diverse backgrounds and experience, our team is uniquely positioned to communicate with stakeholders where they are in a way they understand. We approach every project as a trusted partner, leveraging decades of expertise to provide custom strategies that help our clients get results.

Location and Travel:

This position is primarily based at a client site in San Jose, with an expected on-site presence of approximately 4 days per week, subject to change based on client needs and availability. The role may also involve early mornings, evenings, and weekend hours, as needed.

Compensation:

The annual base amount for this position is dependent on several factors, including the candidate’s geographic location, experience, and qualifications. The annual base amount may be adjusted based on market conditions in the location where the employee resides.

A typical annual base range for this role is: $80,000– $115,000 (actual compensation may vary by location and will follow local regulations).

Responsibilities:

• Oversee assigned client accounts as a point of contact, providing strategic support and representing SWS at meetings, tours, and events
• Act as a client representative to deliver presentations, facilitate community briefings, and lead project tours
• Maintain a deep understanding of client goals, priorities, and project activities to ensure proactive, informed communication support
• Develop and oversee comprehensive communications plans that integrate media, digital, stakeholder, and community engagement strategies
• Participate in and often lead internal strategy sessions, providing guidance and recommendations to align client direction with agency best practices
• Identify opportunities to enhance visibility and public understanding of client initiatives
• Partner with clients and creative teams to develop compelling, on-brand content across platforms—social media, web, advertising, video, and collateral
• Oversee creation and approval of key materials such as press releases, newsletters, presentations, and fact sheets
• Ensure all content aligns with client messaging, tone, and communication objectives
• Lead the planning and execution of public meetings, tours, and community events, ensuring seamless coordination, vendor management, and stakeholder outreach
• Provide on-site leadership during major events, serving as an agency representative
• Guide junior team members in logistics, research, and event documentation
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, community partners, and media contacts
• Direct field outreach and community engagement efforts, ensuring clear tracking and reporting of results
• Prepare and present reports summarizing outreach metrics, media performance, and social media analytics
• Mentor and guide junior staff, fostering professional growth and high-quality work output
• Identify and pursue opportunities to expand client services and contribute to business development initiatives
• Additional responsibilities as required

Requirements

• 5+ years of previous Public Affairs or Community Relations experience required
• Experience managing project team of 2-3 employees
• Previous public relations agency experience preferred
• Experience with transportation clients or projects preferred

Why You’ll Love Working Here:

• Competitive salary with clear paths for growth
• Hybrid work model to support flexibility and work-life balance
• Comprehensive benefits, including a no-cost medical plan, dental, vision, FSA, 3 weeks PTO, 14 paid holidays, and 401(k) profit sharing
• Professional development stipend and internal training programs to boost your skills and career
• Company wellness stipend for ClassPass to support your health and well-being
• Mentorship