PR Specialist - U.S. Media Relations

PR Specialist - U.S. Media Relations

Expedia Group is one of the world’s largest travel platforms. At Expedia Group, we believe travel is a force for good, so our mission is to power global travel for everyone, everywhere.

As the PR Specialist for our internal U.S. Media Relations team, you will talk with media daily to build positive relationships and drive relevant, high-quality outcomes for our brands - Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo. The mission of the PR team is to boost awareness, trust, and loyalty for the Expedia Brands portfolio. The U.S. Media Relations team sits within the PR org and talks to the media every day about what’s trending in travel - from top destinations to useful travel tips. This position will be instrumental in generating quality coverage for the organization.

You will work closely with team members to shape the narrative in the market and to drive the three distinct Expedia Brands to new heights. You will act as an invaluable consultant for the wider team on PR campaigns, areas of sensitivity, and local cultural nuances.

The dream candidate is someone who has a deep interest and understanding of traditional media relations and PR strategies, can think outside of the box, introduces us to new outlets and media channels, and comes up with new ideas to test and try and secure compelling media placements. This person is a collaborative teammate with a strong attention to detail and project management skills. They also believe building and cultivating media relationships are the keys to success. They will possess a strong network of media contacts and a keen eye for developing stories and initiatives, which will gain the attention of both the media and the public. You are a proactive individual who will constantly be growing and building relationships with media through unique and engaging ways.

The position will be based in Los Angeles, reporting to the Head of U.S. Media Relations and work closely with the wider global Brand PR and Social Media teams.

What you’ll do:

• Assist in the development and execution of PR plans such as writing press releases and pitches to support Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo in the U.S

• Regularly interact with media, including online, print, radio, and television outlets, to secure standout coverage for the Expedia Brands

• Ensure the Expedia, Hotels, and Vrbo brands are regularly mentioned in media outlets by using your creative storytelling and data-mining skills to develop trends and stories

• Respond to reactive media requests in a timely manner

• Help to develop PR editorial/activity calendars for market/brand, and assist in leading press trips and media events

• Responsible for monitoring all industry and competitor media coverage, including managing coverage reports, drafting status reports, and providing business event progress and reports as they occur

• Build and update media lists to ensure the team has accurate contact information for national and regional editors

• Create briefing documents to ensure internal spokespeople are prepared for media interviews

Who you are:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field; or equivalent related professional experience

• 2+ years of experience in agency or in-house public relations, and/or a strong news background; consumer, travel, or lifestyle experience a plus

• Proven results working with top-tier U.S. media outlets, including broadcast

• Strong travel and lifestyle contacts, particularly with New York-based media

• Experience working in a fast-paced environment a plus

• Experience in large, highly matrixed organizations a plus

• Excellent writing, communication, and interpersonal skills
  

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The total cash range for this position in West Hollywood is $65,500.00 to $92,000.00. Employees in this role have the potential to increase their pay up to $105,000.00, which is the top of the range, based on ongoing, demonstrated, and sustained performance in the role.

Starting pay for this role will vary based on multiple factors, including location, available budget, and an individual’s knowledge, skills, and experience. Pay ranges may be modified in the future.

Expedia Group is proud to offer a wide range of benefits to support employees and their families, including medical/dental/vision, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program. To fuel each employee’s passion for travel, we offer a wellness & travel reimbursement, travel discounts, and an International Airlines Travel Agent (IATAN) membership.View our full list of benefits.

Expedia is committed to creating an inclusive work environment with a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. This employer participates in E-Verify. The employer will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee's I-9 to confirm work authorization.