Job Overview
Are you a strategic storyteller and proven leader with strong media relations skills and a deep understanding of social media strategy and platforms? Can you help clients navigate the intersecting worlds of PR and social media while mentoring a high-performing team? Can you balance big-picture vision with hands-on execution, and excel in a fast-paced, collaborative environment? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you.
We’re looking for a dynamic, strategic and relationship-driven Director of Strategic Engagement to lead a talented team across PR, social media and influencer marketing. You’ll oversee a cross-functional team focused on delivering high-impact communications and content strategies that elevate our clients’ brands, build trust and drive measurable results. If you’re a supportive leader, have a knack for connecting storytelling with strategy and are comfortable using analytics to guide recommendations, we encourage you to apply. We offer a collaborative culture, flexible work options and the benefits you need to feel supported in and out of the office.
Why Odney?
Odney was founded in 1985, and we’ve spent the past 40 years creating high-impact marketing and communications that deliver real results to help our clients grow and prosper. Our approach is simple: we gather the best minds, the most committed people and the ones who want to change the world, and give them the freedom, support and tools to flourish. Our team of highly skilled, highly motivated and highly dedicated individuals offers clients the creative and strategic firepower to reach new levels of success.
Our commitment to excellence pushes each of us to dig deep for our clients while respecting that we all have invigorating and important lives outside of our careers. We cultivate and encourage a strong work-life balance because we believe we all deserve time, attention and quality benefits. We’re all at our best when we feel well-rounded and supported. If you want to work for a dynamic company that values your talent and well-being, join us!
Job Location
Bismarck, ND, or Remote (with travel as needed)
Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Lead the Strategic Engagement team encompassing public relations, social media and influencer marketing
- Develop and execute comprehensive communication strategies that align with client goals and KPIs
- Provide high-level strategic counsel to clients, internal teams and agency leadership
Client & Campaign Oversight
- Serve as lead strategist for key accounts, guiding campaign development, messaging and reporting
- Maintain and grow strong client relationships, identifying opportunities for innovation and added value
- Oversee multi-channel campaign execution that combines paid, earned, shared and owned media
Team Development & Operations
- Manage and mentor a talented team of communication professionals
- Set clear expectations, develop processes and support team growth and performance
- Collaborate with other department leaders to align workflows and ensure campaign integration
Measurement & Optimization
- Guide performance measurement using tools like Meltwater, LookerStudio, etc.
- Analyze campaign data to inform optimization and reporting
- Present results and strategic insights to clients in a clear, actionable way
Qualifications
- 7+ years of experience in strategic communications, PR, social media or integrated marketing (agency experience strongly preferred)
- 3+ years in a leadership or management role
- Exceptional writing, editing and message-development skills
- Strong understanding of social platforms, analytics, digital trends and media relations
- Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects with competing deadlines
- Skilled in managing client relationships, delivering presentations and collaborating cross-functionally
- Experience in public sector, tourism, energy, agriculture or transportation sectors a plus
Benefits
- Health Insurance
- Dental, Vision, and Voluntary Supplemental Insurance
- Medical and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
- Life and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- 401(k)
- PTO and Sick Leave
- Maternity/Paternity Leave
- Infant-at-Work Program
- Paid Holidays
- Flexible Scheduling
- Free snacks in the Bismarck office (And not lame snacks—we’re talking the really good name-brand snacks)
Contact
Please send your resume to Michael Pierce, VP of Media Strategy, at
mpierce@odney.com
Essential Strengths & Skillsets
Strategic
I am a strategic thinker who sees the big picture and knows how to connect the dots across platforms, audiences and messaging to drive results. I am driven by outcomes and understand how to align tactics with business goals and campaign KPIs. I am data-informed and comfortable using analytics to guide planning, measure performance and optimize campaigns across PR and social media.
Creative
I am a storyteller who crafts narratives that resonate, inspire and move people to act. I am a creative collaborator who brings bold ideas to the table but also knows how to refine and shape them into smart, effective campaigns. I am agile and inventive, constantly scanning for trends, formats and cultural moments to integrate into brand communication.
Solution-Focused
I am a problem solver, not just a planner. Someone who thrives in fast-moving environments and keeps calm in crisis. I am proactive, not reactive, anticipating challenges and addressing them head-on before they become issues. I am resourceful and results-oriented, willing to roll up my sleeves and do what’s needed to keep things moving forward.
Trustworthy
I am a trusted client partner who builds confidence through communication, consistency and clarity.
I am dependable under pressure and thrive when managing complex, high-stakes campaigns with multiple stakeholders. I am a leader who empowers others, mentoring with transparency, empathy and accountability.
Public Relations Strategy & Media Relations
I am an experienced PR strategist with strong media instincts and a proven track record of securing impactful coverage and navigating sensitive issues with professionalism.
Social Media Strategy & Management
I am skilled in paid and organic social strategy across platforms, leveraging insights to drive engagement, conversions and brand affinity.
Content Planning & Creation
I am organized and detail-oriented, with a strong editorial mindset and the ability to lead cross-channel content calendars that align with overarching goals.
Team Leadership & Development
I am a supportive leader who builds high-performing teams by fostering clarity, creativity and ownership, and by giving credit where it’s due.
Client Communication & Relationship Building
I am client-first in my approach, providing strategic guidance, timely updates and a collaborative spirit that builds long-term trust.