Communications specialist Jobs in Costa Mesa, CA

Director, PR & Integrated Communications Location:

• Costa Mesa, CA (Hybrid: in‑office Tue–Thu) Team: Integrated Communications About the Role Idea Hall is seeking a hands‑on Director of Public Relations and Integrated Communications to lead client programs and help grow our agency.
• You’ll guide integrated PR and communications work for a select portfolio—pairing strategic counsel with day‑to‑day execution—while mentoring a talented team across managers, associates and coordinators.
• You’ll also contribute to new business through prospecting, pitching and showing up at industry and client events.
• Where You’ll Make an Impact You’ll primarily partner with organizations in the AEC (architecture/engineering/construction), nonprofit and public agency spaces.
• This work calls for steady, proactive leadership, excellent storytelling and measurable results—plus the judgment and calm needed to manage issues and crises when they arise.
• What You’ll Do Client leadership & strategy Own the PR/integrated communications strategy and implementation for your accounts—setting clear objectives, building plans, and ensuring quality delivery across media relations, content, digital and stakeholder communications.
• Build trust with senior client partners by understanding their goals, surfacing insights, and proactively recommending new, strategically aligned program opportunities that drive results.
• Establish measurement frameworks, review performance regularly, and “re‑merchandise” wins to show ROI—optimizing throughout the year.

Crisis & issues management Lead readiness and response:

• risk scans, scenario planning, holding statements, media Q&As, escalation protocols and executive coaching.
• Serve as a steady counselor during fast‑moving moments; coordinate with legal/HR/operations as needed to align facts, messaging and channels.
• Team leadership Lead and develop a team of managers, associates and coordinators , providing clear direction, constructive feedback, and growth opportunities; model our One Team culture and coach with empathy.
• Maintain high standards for writing, client communications and deliverables (e.g., bylines, press materials, messaging, strategic plans, recap reports).
• Operations & growth Practice diligent financial stewardship —scoping smartly, forecasting accurately and managing budgets to plan.
• Help identify and pitch new business; nurture referrals; represent Idea Hall at networking and client events (some evenings).

Champion Idea Hall’s people‑centered culture and core values:

• One Team, Relationships, Leadership, Hustle & Grit, Growth Mindset, Make an Impact.
• What You’ll Bring Agency experience (required) leading PR/integrated communications programs and managing client relationships.
• Demonstrated crisis communications experience (issues planning, rapid response, executive counsel, media handling).
• Proven ability to develop integrated strategies and translate them into compelling work that earns coverage, moves stakeholders and meets KPIs.
• Excellent writing across formats—bylines, press materials, messaging, Q&As, op‑eds and recap decks—with sharp attention to detail.
• Strong collaborator who elevates cross‑disciplinary work with creative, digital and marketing partners; solutions‑oriented and calm under pressure.
• Comfort with proposals, budgets, scopes of work and presentations.

Nice to have:

• APR or other relevant certifications; familiarity with EOS.
• Work Style, Schedule & Travel We work together in our Costa Mesa office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays , with occasional local client visits and events (some evenings).
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