Public Relations Specialist

About the Role

Payper is a fast-moving PR agency focused on transparency, and it is looking for an exceptional hire to help drive the next stage of growth. This is the company’s first hire, working directly with the two co-founders and playing a major role in shaping how the business develops. The team is looking for someone energetic, proactive, and ready to build something ambitious rather than simply fill a seat.

Key Responsibilities

• Secure media coverage for client accounts through strong pitching and follow-through.
• Manage client relationships and take ownership of key accounts.
• Create and shape written materials such as media releases, pitches, blog content, proposals, and reports.
• Guide teammates and contractors as needed to deliver work effectively.
• Represent the business confidently in client meetings and calls.
• Use AI, digital tools, and automations to improve speed, intelligence, and efficiency across the business.
• Build relationships through networking, conversation, and business development opportunities.

Minimum Requirements

• You approach media relations with a journalist’s mindset; ideally, you are currently working in journalism or have moved on from it. Prior PR experience is not essential.
• You already use AI extensively and thoughtfully as part of your day-to-day workflow.
• You communicate and present with confidence, whether in front of clients, on camera, or while pitching.
• You have a strong eye for detail and take quality seriously, checking for issues such as typos, broken links, and incorrect dates.
• You maintain strong relationships within the journalism world and are well connected with journalists who trust and value you.
• You prefer clarity over jargon, and you do not enjoy unnecessary bureaucracy or process-heavy environments.
• You are a reliable, pleasant person who will fit well with the team.
• You are based in Auckland and can work from the Ponsonby Road office four days each week.
• You focus on solving problems and offering solutions rather than only highlighting issues.
• You are always looking for smarter, better ways to get things done.
• You communicate well and bring a strong conversational style.

What Would Make You Stand Out

• You think like a founder rather than an employee.
• You are already comfortable using advanced AI tools, including building automations or creating lightweight apps.
• You have an eye for design and can produce polished decks or client reports.
• You bring an additional creative or commercial skill such as video production, photography, design, or social media management.
• You are an excellent communicator.

Role Details

• The expected salary range is $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience and what you bring to the role.
• The lower end of the range is aimed at a junior-to-mid-level journalist ready to transition out of the newsroom, while the higher end suits someone with substantial PR or journalism experience.
• Full-time is preferred, though part-time may be considered for the right candidate.
• The role is hybrid with four in-office days per week at Qb Studios on Ponsonby Road.

Application Process

For the first step, the company asks applicants not to use AI when preparing their submission.

Applicants should send only two items: a short video of up to 4 minutes introducing themselves and explaining how they meet the minimum and standout requirements, and one link to something they are proud of, such as a written piece, website, track, artwork, or film.

After that, shortlisted candidates will move through CV and reference checks, then a smaller shortlist, and finally in-person interviews before the role is filled.

A referral bonus of a $500 Airbnb voucher is available for anyone who refers a candidate who is eventually hired.