Public Relations Consultant (Freelance)
Location: Charlotte, NC (Onsite)
Employment Type: Freelance / Contract
Our client is seeking a seasoned Public Relations Consultant on a freelance basis to help elevate our brand story, strengthen our media presence, and support strategic communications initiatives for our pool business based in Charlotte, NC. This is a contract role with potential for extended or additional engagements based on performance and business needs.
Role Overview
The Public Relations Consultant will serve as a strategic partner to marketing and executive leadership, responsible for developing and executing PR programs that enhance Pentair’s reputation, visibility, and thought leadership across key audiences. You will craft compelling narratives, manage media relations, and provide counsel on communication strategies that support product, sustainability, and innovation priorities.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement integrated PR plans that align with brand, product, and corporate objectives.
- Craft clear, engaging messages, press materials, and storylines that articulate the value proposition and differentiators.
- Proactively build and maintain relationships with relevant trade, business, and local media to secure high-quality coverage.
- Identify and pursue opportunities for thought leadership, including speaking engagements, bylines, awards, and panel participation for key executives.
- Draft and edit press releases, media pitches, Q&As, talking points, briefing books, and contributed content.
- Monitor industry trends, competitor activity, and news cycles to surface timely PR opportunities and issues.
- Support preparation and coaching of spokespersons for interviews and public appearances.
- Partner with internal marketing and corporate communications teams to ensure message alignment across channels (digital, social, web, events).
- Track and report on PR performance metrics, providing insights and recommendations for optimization.
- Provide crisis and issues management support as needed, including reactive media statements and guidance.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
- 5+ years of progressive experience in public relations, corporate communications, or agency account work.
- Proven success in developing and executing PR strategies that generate meaningful media coverage.
- Demonstrated ability to translate complex technical or data-driven topics into accessible, compelling stories.
- Strong media relations background, with established contacts preferred in relevant trade and/or business outlets.
- Experience supporting executive visibility and thought leadership programs.
- Solid understanding of how PR integrates with digital, content, and social strategies.
- Experience in B2B, industrial, or technology-driven environments preferred; familiarity with dealer or channel marketing a plus.
Skills & Competencies
- Exceptional writing and editing skills, with an executive-ready communication style.
- Strategic thinker able to connect business goals to communications plans and outcomes.
- Comfort working independently in a fast-moving environment with multiple stakeholders.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
- Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret PR metrics and make data-informed recommendations.
- Professional presence and confidence in advising senior leaders on communications approaches.
Engagement Details
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Type: Freelance / Contract engagement with Pentair, Inc.
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Location: Onsite in Charlotte, NC; limited travel may be required for events, media opportunities, or internal meetings.
Candidates should include recent examples of PR campaigns, media placements, or writing samples that demonstrate relevant experience and results.
