Manager, Public Relations

Company Description

Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than 30,000 team members and over 750 retail and fueling locations in 44 states and six Canadian provinces. Our energy and logistics division serves as a top supplier of fuel, employing one of the largest tanker fleets and providing critical services to oil operations in our nation’s busiest basins. Pilot Company supports a growing portfolio of brands with expertise in supply chain and retail operations, logistics and transportation, technology and digital innovation, construction, maintenance, human resources, finance, sales, and marketing.

Founded in 1958 by Jim A. Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture, and commitment to giving back remain true to us today. Whether we are serving guests, a fellow team member, or a trucking company, we are dedicated to fueling people and keeping North America moving.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Job Description

This role will report in-person to our Knoxville, TN headquarters.

The purpose of this job is to develop and implement external communications strategies while supervising two external communications team members. The role, in collaboration with the Sr. Manager of External Communications, will lead the planning, creation, and execution of external communications and written content to ensure a regular, timely, and relevant flow of information across external communications channels.

• Lead development of external communications strategies and plans in partnership with brand marketing and in direct support of key internal clients to support the company’s goals and objectives
• Define and develop messaging tone and key messages for integrated communication campaigns as well as broader company initiatives
• Draft, edit and align written communications materials; Identify and develop communications content for external audiences
• Manage two members of the External Communications team with responsibility for performance reviews and team member growth and development. Would also provide recommendations for HR-related issues.
• Oversee and lead external communications calendar and channel plan; Work with internal and external communications to ensure execution and publication according to plans
• Build relationships and serve as primary point of contact for select Internal and External stakeholders
• Plan and execute Company and PR activities as needed
• Lead media relations for HR and Store Operations clients, among others
• Prep company spokespersons and develop media materials
• Serve as Company representative at industry and media events
• Respond and advise on incoming communication and media requests
• Report campaign results and develop recommendations
• Research and monitor new communications tactics, trending media, company media, and communications content ideas
• Model behaviors that support the company’s common purpose; ensure guests and team members are supported at the highest level
• Ensure all activities are in compliance with rules, regulations, policies, and procedures

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required
• 5+ years’ experience with external/public relations experience,
• Experience working within a large, matrixed organization preferred

Specialized Knowledge

• Advanced Microsoft Office skills

Competencies

• Strong relationship building and influencing skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to take initiative, work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information ethically and responsibly

Additional Information

Travel:
Travel required up to 15%

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions:

• General office work requiring sitting or standing for long periods of time
• Able to work evenings and odd hours as needed
• Able to lift 20 lbs.

Application Instructions:
Please click on the link to apply for this position. A new window will open and direct you to apply at our corporate careers page. We look forward to hearing from you!