About the Human Rights Foundation

The Human Rights Foundation (HRF) is a nonpartisan nonprofit organization that promotes and protects human rights globally, with a focus on closed societies. HRF unites people in the common cause of defending human rights and promoting liberal democracy. Our mission is to ensure that freedom is preserved and promoted worldwide. We seek, in particular, to sustain the struggle for liberty in those areas where it is most under threat.

HRF produces the Oslo Freedom Forum, an annual human rights conference in Norway. For more information on HRF and its work, please visit our website at www.hrf.org. To learn more about the Oslo Freedom Forum, please visit www.oslofreedomforum.com

Job Overview

The Media Relations Manager will lead efforts to generate consistent, high-impact media coverage for our programs, campaigns, and global initiatives. This role will be central in amplifying HRF’s voice in the public sphere, connecting our experts and activists with top-tier journalists and outlets, securing high-profile media placements, and fostering long-term relationships with media partners. The ideal candidate is a strong communicator with a passion for human rights, extensive experience in media relations, and a proven track record of securing press coverage in influential national and international media.

Responsibilities and Expectations

Specific duties include, but may not be limited to:

• Develop and execute strategy to generate media interest in and coverage of Human Rights Foundation’s work and expertise. Position HRF staff as key resources for journalists covering human rights, authoritarianism, and related issues.
• Proactively pitch stories, place op-eds, and secure interviews and features in leading media outlets across print, digital, TV, radio, and podcasts
• Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists, editors, and producers covering human rights, democracy, tech, authoritarianism, and international affairs. Maintain database of relationships and touch points with members of press.
• Serve as point of contact for media inquiries and coordinate responses with internal teams.
• Collaborate with HRF experts and spokespeople to identify compelling stories, craft messaging, and prepare for interviews.
• Manage media relations around the Oslo Freedom Forum, including outreach, press accreditation, on-site coordination, and post-event coverage.
• Develop and maintain media lists, tracking coverage and analyzing reach and impact.
• Identify and pursue strategic media partnerships and content collaborations.
• Provide training and support to individuals who will be interacting with the media.
• Track and report on media coverage and monitor news cycle to identify strategic communications opportunities and potential areas for risk management.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in media relations or public relations, preferably on behalf of an international nonprofit, major media organization, or thought leadership conference.
• Strong existing network with top-tier media outlets and journalists.
• Demonstrated success in placing op-eds, articles, and securing high-impact media coverage.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex issues into compelling stories.
• Deep understanding of the media landscape and current events related to human rights and global democracy.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
• Passion for human rights and a commitment to HRF’s mission.