Head of PR & Advocacy - #445955

Who we are

Vessi is a category-defining footwear and apparel brand with roots in Vancouver, Canada. At Vessi we know that water is a magical ingredient for happiness and peace, and since 2018, we've been on a mission to welcome the water and share it with the world. That’s why we create 100% waterproof products that make experiencing the magic of water easier and more accessible for all. We also believe in protecting water supply and replenishing fresh water for people who need it most through meaningful charity partnerships.

Our community and team are out in the world spreading kindness, cleaning up coasts, and #makingwaves. And more recently with our expansion into omni-channel, we're enabling even more people to experience the magic of water through our products and brand experiences. We've got big plans ahead with more innovative products and expansion into the US market, and we're on the lookout for passionate and driven individuals to join us on this journey.

Overview

As Head of PR & Advocacy, you'll be the driving force behind our brand's voice, creating PR strategies that spark growth and dominate the conversation. You'll build game-changing media relationships, craft compelling brand narratives that tap into the cultural moment, and elevate our brand at every turn. You'll also forge strong partnerships and lead impactful campaigns that push us forward. If you're a creative, strategic thinker who knows how to make a brand part of culture, this role is for you.

Key Responsibilities:

• Shape & Drive PR Strategy: Lead the creation and execution of PR strategies that not only amplify our brand's message but also drive growth. Your ability to build compelling media narratives and manage targeted outreach will ensure our brand consistently lands in the right places, telling the right story, to the right audience.
• Lead Brand & Influencer Partnerships: Leverage your established relationships with top-tier media outlets, influencers, and industry leaders to secure high-impact partnerships that elevate our visibility, strengthen our brand reputation, and unlock new growth opportunities. You will play a key role in cultivating long-lasting relationships with top-tier media outlets, influencers, and brand collaborators who can amplify our message.
• Relentless drumbeat of press for Vessi: Secure consistent placements in top-tier national media outlets, ensuring the brand remains front-and-center in the minds of consumers. By positioning Vessi alongside trusted lifestyle brands in both digital and print, you will reinforce its credibility and elevate its visibility across key publications.
• Campaign Leadership: Take charge of creative brand activations, influencer campaigns, and media events that resonate with audiences and generate measurable results. Your leadership will ensure each campaign is seamlessly integrated with our broader marketing strategy, driving both awareness and engagement.
• Cross-Department Collaboration: Work hand-in-hand with marketing, creative, and product teams to integrate PR efforts across all brand initiatives. Your ability to align messaging and tone ensures that our brand communicates consistently and authentically at every touchpoint.
• Master Media Relations: Build and nurture strong relationships with journalists, editors, and influencers to secure earned media coverage that reinforces our brand's vision. Craft compelling press materials, including press releases and media kits, that position our brand as a leader in the space.
• Measure Success & Optimize Impact: Use your experience with PR measurement and data analytics to track success of PR campaigns, analyzing key metrics like media coverage and ROI. Your insights will be critical in refining strategies, ensuring that our PR efforts continue to drive impactful growth and align with long-term business goals.
• Lead & Inspire Your Team: Mentor and lead a small, talented PR & Advocacy team, fostering a culture of creativity, innovation, and continuous growth. You'll inspire your team to think big, push boundaries, and deliver results that move the brand forward.
  
  

Qualifications & Skills:

• Experience: 6-8 years of experience in PR, advocacy, and brand communications, preferably within apparel or lifestyle category.
• Media & Advocacy Expertise: Proven track record in securing media coverage across national and local outlets and building strong influencer and brand partner relationships.
• Strategic Thinker: Ability to think strategically and creatively while executing tactical plans and drive measurable outcomes.
• Communication Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
• Project Management: Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to prioritize and handle multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Collaborative Leader: Proven ability to work cross-functionally and lead teams towards common goals, with experience managing both internal teams and external partners/agencies.
• Digital Savvy: Solid understanding of digital PR, social media trends, and the evolving media landscape.
  
  

Bonus Points:

• Agency Background: Strong experience working in a fast-paced PR agency environment or handling external agency partners with a deep understanding of brand experience and activations.
  
  

What You'll Get:

• Opportunity to help build an ever-evolving brand
• Competitive salary
• 3 weeks paid vacation
• Professional development opportunities
• Extended health benefits package including an EAP and a $500 annual Health & Wellness Spending Account
• $1000 per year Education Reimbursement
• 40% Family & Friends Discount
• Free Vessi product and 50% Employee Discount
• Dog-friendly office
  
  

At Vessi, we are committed to creating an environment where all team members feel welcome and have the opportunity to succeed. We believe that a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion allows us to truly fulfill our mission and live out our core values. We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and skill sets to apply.