Public Relations Manager, Partnerships
About this role
Managing public perception and driving adoption of autonomous driving technology requires coordinated messaging around commercial expansions and strategic partnerships. Waymo needs a Public Relations Manager to shape its corporate reputation, address misinformation, and collaborate with media influencers and internal teams. Operating within the Communications team in Mountain View or San Francisco, the person who takes on this position will craft narratives that increase public trust in the Waymo Driver. Candidates who succeed here possess deep expertise in media relations and corporate storytelling, enabling them to navigate complex multi-partner announcements in a fast-paced environment.
Working closely with business development, legal, and product groups, the incoming manager will translate technical milestones into clear public messaging. Daily responsibilities include drafting high-impact press releases, executing strategic communications plans, and managing partner alignment. Professionals who thrive in this hybrid role are adept at balancing rapid tactical execution with long-term reputation management while maintaining a high standard of quality.
What you will do
- Drive communications planning, strategy development, and tactical execution for corporate communications efforts, including strategic partnership announcements and commercial expansions.
- Lead on communications activities with partners, coordinating closely with partner PR teams on announcements and other activities to ensure message alignment and proactive reputation management.
- Partner with internal teams such as Business Development, Partnerships, Marketing, Legal, Policy, and Product to align on business objectives, develop unified narratives, and secure cross-functional approvals.
- Draft high-impact press releases, messaging playbooks, reactive FAQs, executive talking points, and briefing documents for high-profile external engagements.
- Oversee day-to-day engagement with business and tech press, proactively cultivating relationships and handling reactive media inquiries.
What you need
- Bring at least 7 years of experience in corporate communications and public relations, ideally at a high-growth or technology company.
- Demonstrate proven experience managing corporate communications, including strategic corporate partnerships, joint announcements, and commercial expansions.
- Showcase strong media relations experience with a proven track record of pitching, working with reporters, and managing tight deadlines.
- Possess outstanding writing, editing, and storytelling skills paired with a sharp eye for detail and tone.
- Thrive in a rapid, always-on environment by managing multiple complex projects independently while maintaining a high bar for quality.
- Exhibit excellent interpersonal skills with experience coordinating communications across multiple external PR partners, agencies, and vendors.
Nice to have
- Experience working within the autonomous vehicle, ride-hailing, automotive, or transportation technology sectors
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field
- An established network of relevant media contacts, including new media, and fluency in the current media and social landscape
Benefits
- Discretionary annual bonus program
- Equity incentive plan
- Generous Company benefits program
Questions candidates ask
What is the work schedule for this role?
This role follows a hybrid work schedule. The position is based in Mountain View, California or San Francisco, California.
What is the expected salary range for this position?
The expected base salary range for this full-time position across US locations is $168,000 to $207,000 USD. Actual starting pay is based on job-related factors including exact work location, experience, relevant training and education, and skill level.
What additional compensation and benefits are offered?
Waymo employees are eligible to participate in the discretionary annual bonus program and equity incentive plan. Additionally, workers may participate in a generous company benefits program subject to eligibility requirements.
Who does this position report to?
This role reports to the Corporate Communications Lead. You will sit as a member of the Communications team.