Tourism Public Relations Specialist

About the Role Are you passionate about storytelling, travel, and showcasing the beauty of North Carolina to the world? Visit North Carolina is seeking a dynamic Tourism Public Relations Specialist to support strategic media engagement, press outreach, and tourism promotion across the state. Key Responsibilities Coordinate media visits, assist in developing itineraries, support media outreach initiatives, and foster relationships with journalists, tourism partners, and industry stakeholders. Assist with planning media events, coordinating press trips and conference activities, tracking PR impact, and supporting content development that elevates North Carolina as a premier travel destination. Support media visit planning, event coordination, partner communication, and PR outreach under the direction of the Senior Public Relations Manager. Assist in developing and coordinating customized familiarization (FAM) itineraries and logistics for hosted travel writers, influencers, and media professionals in collaboration with partners. Assist with proactive media outreach and itinerary planning efforts. Assist with on-the-ground coordination and hosting during media visits, press trips, and tourism industry events. Follow up post-trip to support coverage tracking, reporting, and ongoing relationship management with media contacts. Maintain media coverage trackers, PR valuation reporting, and media metrics. Maintain media and partner databases, Salesforce entries, and reporting systems to ensure accurate tracking. Coordinate with PR agencies and tourism partners to gather research and materials for outreach initiatives. Share media coverage and success stories with partners to strengthen industry engagement. Provide operational and administrative support to senior PR staff and cover broader marketing and communications projects as needed. Serve as backup support for PR team initiatives, events, and media activities during peak periods or staff absences. Working Conditions Requires multi‑day statewide and domestic travel for familiarization tours, media missions, tradeshows, and other events. Some international travel may be included. Work hours include evenings, weekends, and overnight travel. Benefits Competitive compensation and performance incentives that reward impact and results. Hybrid work schedule that supports flexibility and balance. Generous time off, including 4 weeks of PTO, 9 paid holidays, 3 sick and wellness days, and 3 flex holidays. 401(k) with a 5% employer match after six months. Paid parental leave, including 8 weeks maternity leave and 4 weeks paternal leave. Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; HSA and FSA options. Company‑paid short‑ and long‑term disability coverage and $50K life insurance. Employee Assistance Program covering entire household wellbeing. Voluntary benefits such as critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity, life insurance, and pet insurance. Corporate amenities such as paid parking, gym access, and complimentary snacks. Family Forward Certified workplace practices. Requirements High school diploma or GED required; bachelor’s degree preferred. 3‑5 years public relations and/or marketing experience required; experience in a tourism‑related field preferred. Strong oral and written communication skills and ability to craft compelling stories. Ability to build and manage relationships with media and partners. Excellent time‑management and organization skills to prioritize multiple projects. Effective collaboration with colleagues and the ability to work independently. Adaptability and composure under pressure, maintaining professionalism. Judgment, discretion, and accountability in decision‑making and execution. Results‑driven self‑motivation and focus on high‑quality work that supports team success. #J-18808-Ljbffr Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC)