Communications Manager at Duluth Trading Company

The Manager of PR / Communications is responsible for developing and executing public relations and communication strategies that enhance the company’s brand reputation and visibility. This role involves managing media relations, crafting compelling narratives, and working closely with internal teams to ensure consistent and clear communication across all channels. The ideal candidate will have experience in PR, corporate communications, and media relations, with a proven ability to manage both proactive and reactive communication efforts.

Work Environment:

At Duluth Trading Company, we value face-to-face interactions that foster our culture of learning, creativity, and teamwork. The role is based at our headquarters near Madison, WI. You will work in the office Monday through Thursday, with the option to work remotely from home on Fridays if you prefer.

What You’ll Do: 

• PR Strategy & Execution: Develop and implement comprehensive public relations strategies that align with the company’s business goals, positioning the brand positively in the public eye.
• Media Relations: Build and maintain relationships with key media contacts, ensuring coverage in relevant outlets and managing press outreach for company announcements, product launches, and events.
• Crisis Communications: Serve as a key point of contact for crisis communication planning and execution, developing messaging and strategies to address issues and protect the company’s reputation.
• Press Materials: Work with our PR agency to write and distribute press releases, media kits, and other press materials to communicate the company’s initiatives, achievements, and product offerings effectively.
• Content Development: Collaborate with internal teams to create consistent, high-quality content for external communications, including blog posts, articles, speeches, and social media messaging.
• Internal Communications: Support internal communications efforts by working with leadership to develop messaging that keeps employees informed and engaged with company updates and initiatives.
• Events & Public Speaking: Manage media events and speaking engagements for company executives. Prepare briefing materials, talking points, and Q&As to ensure strong public presentations.
• Monitoring & Reporting: Track media coverage, monitor industry trends, and prepare reports on PR activities and outcomes. Analyze performance data to refine strategies and improve results.
• Brand Messaging: Ensure that all communications and PR efforts are consistent with the company’s brand voice and core messaging.
• Agency & Vendor Management: Oversee relationships with external PR agencies, contractors, and vendors, ensuring alignment on objectives and quality of deliverables.

What We’re Looking For:

• Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field. 5+ years of experience in PR or corporate communications.
• Media: Demonstrated success in building relationships with media and securing placements in top-tier outlets.
• Writing & Editing: Exceptional writing and editing skills, with experience crafting clear, engaging, and on-brand communications across various formats.
• Crisis Management: Proven experience managing crisis communications and navigating sensitive or challenging situations effectively.
• Strategic Thinker: Ability to develop strategic communications plans that align with business goals and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
• Collaboration: Experience working cross-functionally with internal teams (e.g., marketing, legal, HR) to align messaging and strategies.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with media monitoring tools, social media platforms, and communication management software.

Duluth Headquarters Benefits and Perks

As we continue to grow Duluth Trading Company and its house of brands, the perks have perked up, too. We’ve boosted an already impressive benefits package to include: 12-week full-pay parental leave, paid holiday time for the important observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth, and more! Why’d we go all out? Because our pursuit of a better way means that when it comes to great talent, better perks are a given.

Compensation Range: $85,000 to $100,000/year 

Compensation is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certifications, etc.

The responsibilities outlined in this position description are a guideline for the general duties of the position and are not exhaustive of all duties inherent in the job. Duluth Trading Company is an equal opportunity employer.

Started in 1989, Duluth Trading Company exists to enable hard-working individuals to take on life with their own two hands. Folks that revel in doing it the hard way and celebrate finding a better way. We seek talented individuals who share these beliefs and are excited to further the Duluth Trading legacy with a digital-first mindset, always moving forward and always innovating.

From ingenious Duluth workwear, to comfortably capable Buck Naked Underwear, to outside-embracing AKHG, it’s all about the innovative gear and gadgets that equip customers for a more hands-on way of life.

Top-notch quality, immersive storytelling, outstanding customer service, and the shared belief that the go-all-in-and-dig-deep spirit exists with everyone are what sets Duluth Trading Co. apart. We seek talented folks looking to be part of a can-do team that’s hellbent on helping the world to gear up, get its hands dirty, and do.