Director, Technology Public Relations

199,500.00-266,000.00 Business Function: Public Relations Work Location: San Jose Great Oaks Headquarters--LOC_WDT_USCA23 Location (Secondary): Irvine Office--LOC_WDT_USCA01 Company Description WD is building the infrastructure behind the AI-driven data economy. As AI scales, so does data. Every interaction, every model, every system generates data that must be stored, managed, and made accessible over time. That’s where we come in. We combine deep engineering expertise with global-scale manufacturing to deliver the storage systems that make AI possible, powering hyperscale data centers, cloud platforms, and enterprise infrastructure worldwide. This isn’t theoretical work. It’s real systems, at real scale, people solving some of the hardest challenges in technology today. We’re looking for people who want to build, solve, and operate at that level. Join us and let’s shape the future of data.

In this role, you will join WD’s public relations function at a defining moment. With WD forming the storage foundation of the AI-driven data economy, how the company is covered — in the press, in trade publications, in podcast conversations, and across digital media — shapes perception with customers, partners, investors, and talent alike. This role is responsible for building and executing a proactive, narrative-driven technology PR program that cuts through the noise of a crowded enterprise tech landscape and establishes WD as an essential voice in the AI infrastructure conversation. You will serve as the primary interface between WD's executive team and the media ecosystem — from top-tier technology press to influential trade outlets and emerging digital voices — and will be responsible for both the strategy and the day-to-day execution that keeps WD's story in front of the right audiences at the right moments. ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: Develop and own WD's global tech PR strategy, including narrative architecture, message platform, and a proactive story calendar that aligns with product launches, executive thought leadership, industry events, and broader market moments in AI, cloud, and data infrastructure Serve as the primary relationship owner for WD's important media contacts — across top-tier technology press and trade publications — building trusted, ongoing relationships that go beyond reactive pitching to genuine editorial partnership Lead all aspects of media relations, including proactive story development and pitching, press release writing and distribution, embargo management, exclusive placements, and rapid response to breaking news or competitive developments Direct external PR agency relationships, including setting priorities, reviewing deliverables, and holding agency teams accountable to measurable outcomes Partner with executive communications to develop and place thought leadership content — op-eds, bylines, contributed articles, and speaking opportunities — that positions WD's senior leaders as credible, distinctive voices in the AI infrastructure conversation Develop and execute launch PR strategies for major product announcements, and partnerships— coordinating across Product Marketing, Product, Legal, and IR to ensure launches land with maximum impact and consistent messaging Build and manage a proactive executive visibility program, identifying and securing opportunities for WD leaders in podcasts, panels, keynotes, media roundtables, and industry awards programs that reinforce strategic positioning Monitor the media landscape continuously, tracking coverage broader industry narratives, synthesizing insights that inform executive decision-making and help the team stay ahead of emerging story angles Collaborate with Corporate and International PR teams, Analyst Relations, and content