Public Relations Coach

About the role

Leland is actively seeking seasoned public relations professionals to join their coaching roster and shape the next generation of communications talent. The hired individual will own the instructional design and delivery of curriculum focused on public relations strategy and execution. They will guide learners through the practical application of media outreach tactics, crisis management protocols, and brand narrative development. This position requires a deep commitment to hands-on skill building where theory is immediately translated into practice. The role centers on facilitating experiential learning that builds confidence and competence in real-world scenarios. Coaches will act as mentors, translating complex communications concepts into actionable steps for ambitious professionals. They will own the responsibility of creating a structured pathway for students to refine their expertise and portfolio. This position is ideal for someone who thrives on sharing expertise and seeing tangible professional growth in others.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design and deliver instructional modules that deconstruct public relations strategy into practical, learner-focused exercises.
• Facilitate live coaching sessions that simulate media relations scenarios and provide immediate, actionable feedback.
• Guide students through the construction of a comprehensive brand narrative, aligning messaging across traditional and digital channels.
• Lead workshops on crisis communications, helping learners map out response protocols and messaging trees under pressure.
• Mentor individuals on structuring and executing virtual and in-person event planning initiatives from concept to post-event analysis.
• Conduct in-depth resume review sessions that target positioning, keyword optimization, and narrative coherence for communications roles.
• Provide tailored interview preparation, including mock interviews focused on pitching ideas, handling tough questions, and demonstrating strategic thinking.
• Coach learners on effective salary negotiation techniques, using market data and personal value articulation to secure competitive compensation.
• Support students who are pursuing freelance public relations consulting by building go-to-market strategies and client acquisition frameworks.
• Teach networking strategy tactics, including how to leverage LinkedIn, industry events, and warm introductions to expand professional influence.
• Develop assessment tools and progress trackers that measure skill acquisition and confidence levels throughout the coaching engagement.
• Curate resource libraries that include templates for press releases, media lists, crisis playbooks, and campaign scorecards.
• Maintain strict adherence to the virtual delivery model, ensuring that all coaching interactions are optimized for remote engagement.
• Collaborate with the Leland team to iterate on course content based on learner outcomes and evolving industry trends.

Requirements

• You must have prior professional experience working in public relations across agency, corporate, or nonprofit environments.
• You must possess experience in coaching, mentoring, or teaching others in a structured or informal capacity.
• You must demonstrate the ability to present strategic communications topics in a clear, organized, and accessible manner.
• You must be proficient in at least one major communications platform or media monitoring tool used in professional practice.
• You must have a proven track record of managing media inquiries and journalist relationships in a fast-paced setting.
• You must understand the fundamentals of brand management and how messaging is shaped across different audiences.
• You must be comfortable working with students from diverse professional backgrounds and varying levels of experience.
• You must commit to maintaining confidentiality and professional integrity in all coaching interactions and materials.

Nice to have

• Experience in event planning for public relations campaigns, including logistics, vendor management, and on-site coordination.
• Background in freelance consulting, with examples of client work, scope definition, and proposal development.
• Familiarity with adult learning principles and how to adapt coaching for different learning styles and goals.
• Knowledge of current trends in digital media, influencer partnerships, and earned media measurement.

Practical notes

• Coaches conduct sessions virtually.
• Engagement is structured as a contract with flexible hours.
• Professionals based in the United States are eligible to apply.
• There are no specific deadlines for application submission, but early interest is encouraged.
• This role is classified under the Coaches team and reports to the appropriate program leadership.
• Compensation is entirely up to the individual coach, who sets their own hourly or session-based rates.
• The position does not include benefits, as it is a contractor role.
• All instructional content must align with Leland's educational standards and learner outcomes.
• Coaches are expected to maintain a professional virtual presence and reliable connectivity for all sessions.
• Travel is not required for this position due to the fully remote nature of the work.
• No visa sponsorship is available, and candidates must ensure their own eligibility to work in the United States.