Location: Rapid City, SD

Strider is looking for someone to help tell our stories of adventure, success and two-wheeled fun to the world! Having a great attitude, being highly organized and energetic are a must. The ideal candidate will have a passion for what we do and the desire to communicate awesome riding experiences for 2-8 year-old children to their families and the public.

Strider Sports International, Inc, is the South Dakota-based company behind the industry-leading, Strider Balance Bikes for toddlers, children and adults. Headquartered in Rapid City, SD this global company is rapidly expanding and seeking candidates who want to live and work in the amazing Black Hills. Strider values a family-friendly workplace where the workdays fly by and the work itself feels like a grand adventure!

Job Summary: 

We are seeking a motivated and versatile Communications and PR Specialist to join our team. The Communications and PR Specialist will play a pivotal role in shaping the public perception of our organization through strategic communication initiatives. This individual will be responsible for cultivating relationships with media contacts, generating positive media coverage, and managing publicity campaigns. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of media relations, excellent communication skills, and the ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with our target audience. This role will be responsible for creating content so the right person must have exceptional writing skills, a strong understanding of digital communication platforms and a strong desire to achieve outstanding story telling objectives.

Responsibilities: 

• Develop and execute comprehensive PR strategies to enhance brand visibility and reputation.
• Coordinate all efforts of PR through support of a contracted 3rd party PR agency and assist with other outsourced marketing service providers.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with journalists, editors, bloggers, and influencers to secure media coverage across various platforms.
• Write and distribute press releases, media pitches, and other communication materials to targeted media contacts.
• Coordinate media interviews, press conferences, and editorial opportunities, serving as a spokesperson for the organization as needed.
• Monitor media coverage and industry trends, providing insights and recommendations to internal stakeholders.
• Plan and execute publicity campaigns, events, and promotional activities to raise brand awareness and engagement.
• Create engaging content for various communication channels, including press releases, blog posts, newsletters, social media updates, website content, and internal communications.
• Develop and execute comprehensive communication strategies to align with organizational goals and objectives.
• Generate strategic messaging and positioning to communicate key messages and brand values effectively.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Sales, and Product Development, to align PR efforts with overall business objectives.
• Serve as a brand ambassador for Strider.

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or equivalent experience in a related field.
• Proven experience in public relations, media relations, or corporate communications, preferably in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, concise, and persuasive messaging.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with media contacts and stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically, identify emerging trends, and adapt PR strategies accordingly.
• Proficiency in media monitoring tools, social media management platforms, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with event planning, project management, and budgeting is a plus.
• Creative thinking and a proactive mindset, with a passion for storytelling and driving impactful PR outcomes.
• Able to prioritize and complete projects under tight deadlines and work with several different departments.
• A knowledge of Strider and the market we serve.

Beneficial Qualifications: 

• Thriving in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.
• Being committed to an active lifestyle and exercise.
• Enthusiastic and positive attitude.

Physical Demands:  

• Must be able to lift, carry, and move items up to 30 lbs. 
• Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods of time using a phone, computer keyboard and monitor.

Location and hours:  

• This position is in Rapid City, SD.
• Regular office hours are Mon-Thurs 7:30 am to 5 pm and Fri 8am to noon.
• Hours will need to be flexed to achieve a 40 hour week.
• Some travel and occasional support of weekend events should be anticipated.

Pay:  

• $20.00 to $26.00 per hour (depending on experience) plus up to 20% annual bonus eligibility.
• This position reports to the Marketing Manager.
• This full time, non-exempt position qualifies for a full benefits package that includes paid time off, sick leave a 401K plan, health insurance and an extensive list of perks.
• Strider values passionate people who believe their efforts will change the world for the better.

Before taking action, re-read this ad and the job requirements to make sure it fits your skills and philosophy.  If you see yourself as a candidate, submit a detailed letter describing why you are interested in working at Strider and why you feel you are the perfect fit for this role. Oh, and attach a resume as well.