Job Description

McDonald's Global Impact team is aligned around a vision to make McDonald’s famous for our positive impact on people and the planet. The North American Impact team includes Communications, Government Relations, Sustainability & ESG, and Philanthropy. Read more about McDonald’s Purpose & Impact here.

We’re looking for a Media Relations Manager to drive earned media strategy for the US market. This person will be critical in translating the US business narrative and strategic priorities in a clear, compelling way for media – ultimately driving brand affinity and trust.

This position will be based in Chicago and report directly to the Director, US Field Communications & PR. You will be a member of the broader North American Impact team.

Responsibilities:

In this role, you will:

• Lead national media relations strategy and execution across key US business/operations, marketing, community and people initiatives.
• Use data and knowledge of the earned media landscape to develop creative approaches to reach key audiences.
• Draft and review materials including critical communications plans, pitches, press releases, statements, Q&A and more.
• Drive high-impact thought leadership opportunities for McDonald’s US C-Suite, including pitching/securing interviews, developing narratives and briefing executives.
• Triage and handle media issues and crises impacting the US business.
• Partner with the Field Communications team to ensure McDonald’s national priorities and narrative are cascaded locally in all 10 Field Offices.
• In partnership with Global Media Relations, serve as a media relations subject matter expert for the Communications team and other functional partners.
• Build and strengthen reporter relationships on behalf of the brand.
• Constantly mine for potential news angles and data to support opportunistic storytelling.
• Work with the Measurement & Insights team to refine analytics and reporting for earned media coverage.

Qualifications

Must be fully vaccinated (i.e., at least 2 weeks after last dose) for COVID-19 and, if hired, present proof of vaccination by start date.

• BA/BS degree required
• Natural storyteller with excellent speaking, writing and editing skills
• Ability to navigate, orchestrate and work through sophisticated issues with a strategic lens
• Strong experience and knowledge of the earned media landscape
• Adept at navigating media issues and crises for large brands
• Strong business knowledge with a demonstrated ability to understand business strategy and how to use communications as a mechanism to drive that strategy
• Proven leadership and ability to influence and work with Sr. Leadership and multi-disciplined teams
• On the record media relations experience & experience managing agencies is a plus

Additional Information

McDonald’s is committed to providing qualified individuals with reasonable accommodations to perform the essential functions of their jobs. Additionally, if you (or another applicant of whom you are aware) require assistance accessing or reading this job posting or otherwise seek assistance in the application process, please contact recruiting.supportteam@us.mcd.com

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Nothing in this job posting or description should be construed as an offer or guarantee of employment.