Job Description

Manager Of Earned Media

The Manager Of Earned Media is responsible for driving brand relevance, reputation, and reach through impactful storytelling and strategic communications. This role oversees all aspects of earned media including PR strategy, agency management, media and community relations, crisis communications, and CSR initiatives to generate meaningful brand impact and public perception.

Strategy & Planning

• Lead the development and execution of integrated earned media strategies to support brand, product, and purpose-driven initiatives.
• Maximize value from PR agency partnerships through proactive planning, briefing, and results-oriented execution.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Yum! Corporate Comms, Government Affairs, and Global Public Affairs to ensure aligned narratives and positioning.

Media & Reputation Management

• Serve as a media spokesperson for KFC U.S. when needed; provide media training and prep materials for executives.
• Build and maintain strong media relationships; proactively pitch stories and respond to inbound inquiries to secure high-impact coverage.
• Monitor brand sentiment and manage ongoing reputation efforts, including proactive and reactive communications tied to media and digital channels.

Crisis & Issues Management

• Lead issues management efforts: assess risks, coordinate with the Crisis Core Team, develop response strategies, and manage communications during crises.
• Develop playbooks and lead post-crisis reviews to continuously improve preparedness and response.

Community & CSR Leadership

• Manage KFC's Community Relations programs, including national partnerships such as the Giving Kitchen and internal volunteerism initiatives.
• Oversee CSR strategy and reporting: lead data collection, draft narratives, and submit to Yum!'s citizenship and sustainability platform (Recipe for Good).
• Benchmark industry CSR trends to recommend and evolve KFC's social impact programs.

Execution & Reporting

• Oversee project timelines and budgets to ensure earned media campaigns are delivered on time and within scope.
• Create campaign briefs, wrap reports, media coverage summaries, and leadership presentations to showcase progress and impact.
• Track KPIs and ensure ongoing performance and learning are applied across initiatives.

Cultural & Industry Fluency

• Stay ahead of media trends, consumer behaviors, and digital platforms to ensure KFC's earned storytelling remains culturally relevant and innovative.
• Champion integrated thinking - connecting narrative, brand voice, and business priorities into a unified communication architecture.

What You Bring To The Table

• Education/Certifications BA/BS in Public Relations, Journalism, Communications or related field
• Experience
• Years of Experience Minimum 7+ years of experience in public relations/external communications with a public relations firm, corporation or non-profit organization
• Knowledge of public relations strategies, tactics and writing formats (releases, statements, advisories, cutlines and speeches)
• Experience leading community relations and CSR initiatives
• Experience in QSR or franchised organization in a related field preferred
• Media relations experience required, and event planning experience a bonus
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills/presentation skills
• Existing relationships with media and special interest groups preferable
• Working knowledge and experience with print, broadcast and social media. Strong media relationships a plus
• Must have ability to build strong relationships and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

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