Senior Public Relations Specialist

About the Role:

At Baird, we believe in doing what’s right—always. As an employee‑owned, global financial services firm, we are committed to creating meaningful results for our clients, communities, and associates. We’re looking for a strategic, collaborative Public Relations leader to help elevate Baird’s brand and strengthen how we communicate our story both internally and externally. This is an exciting opportunity to work closely with business leaders, partners across Marketing & Communications, and outside PR firms to shape high‑impact communications that support Baird’s continued growth.

The Impact You’ll Make:

• Lead the development and execution of strategic public relations and communications plans that support business goals, brand visibility, and thought leadership initiatives.

• Direct and oversee the work of Baird’s external PR partners to ensure strong alignment and impactful results.

• Train, prepare, and guide Baird spokespersons for media engagement, including messaging, briefing, and pitching.

• Provide direction to PR Coordinators on handling media inquiries and recommending appropriate response strategies.

• Collaborate across the PR and Marketing & Communications teams to track project outcomes and amplify key media coverage internally and externally.

• Lead video production efforts for media outreach and business development initiatives.

What You’ll Bring to Baird:

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Journalism, Communications, Marketing, or a related field.

• 5+ years of public relations experience; financial services or related industry experience is a plus.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and thrive in a fast‑paced, team‑oriented environment.

• Strong writing, editing, communication, and organizational skills, with the ability to build consensus and advise senior leaders.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with social media, video project management, and other communications disciplines.

• A strategic mindset, strong customer service orientation, and the ability to quickly understand complex topics and translate them into clear messaging.

Compensation and Total Rewards Package: 

• $  79,800  - $120,000 annual salary range

• Bonus potential up to 20% of base salary

• Compensation and bonus are commensurate with experience, performance and/or firm profitability

• Check out our Total Rewards at Baird, which is a summary of our benefits and compensation

Baird is committed to diversity and provides employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, military service, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.