Account Manager, Public Relations (Health)

Highwire•San Francisco, CA

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

Account Managers on our Health team lead communications programs for organizations across the healthcare and health innovation landscape. They bring a strong understanding of the healthcare ecosystem — including areas such as digital health, healthcare technology, patient care innovation, health systems, and emerging health trends — and help translate complex topics into compelling, business-relevant narratives. In this role, Account Managers manage multiple client accounts, overseeing strategic communications planning, media relations, executive visibility, and issues management. They serve as trusted partners to their clients, guiding programs that build credibility, strengthen thought leadership, and foster trust in one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving industries. Account Managers also mentor junior team members, contribute to new business development, and help advance Highwire’s reputation as a leading healthcare communications agency.

Requirements

5+ years of PR, communications, or marketing experience in an agency environment (required)
Experience working with healthcare, health technology, digital health, or life sciences clients (required)
Strong understanding of the healthcare landscape and media ecosystem
Established relationships with healthcare, business, and technology media
Proven ability to develop and lead communications strategies that drive visibility and credibility for healthcare brands
Strong writing and storytelling skills, particularly for complex or data-driven topics
Experience managing multiple client accounts, budgets, and teams simultaneously
Track record of mentoring and developing junior team members
Calm and confident under pressure — able to guide clients through complex or sensitive communications situations
Strategic thinker with a proactive, collaborative, and solutions-oriented mindset

Responsibilities

Develop and lead proactive media and analyst relations programs for health clients — spanning topics like healthcare innovation, digital health, patient outcomes, health data, and industry trends.
Build and maintain relationships with key healthcare, technology, and business journalists as well as influential industry analysts.
Identify timely story opportunities tied to healthcare innovation, research developments, policy trends, and breaking news.
Craft compelling story angles and data-driven pitches that drive high-impact coverage in top-tier business, healthcare, and trade outlets.
Leverage digital and social media channels to enhance thought leadership and media amplification.
Measure and report ROI of media and influencer engagement efforts.
Identify opportunities for client executives to participate in thought leadership activities such as podcasts, conferences, and panels.
Serve as the day-to-day client lead, managing strategic communications programs from planning to results.
Develop PR and thought leadership strategies that strengthen brand reputation, support business goals, and differentiate clients in the competitive healthcare market.
Set measurable goals tied to coverage, awareness, and thought leadership outcomes.
Provide strategic counsel on communications challenges, product launches, healthcare initiatives, and reputation management.
Oversee budgets, team priorities, and deliverables, ensuring quality and efficiency across all programs.
Proactively identify new opportunities to expand client relationships and program impact.
Lead client media training sessions and prepare executive spokespeople for interviews and events.
Draft and edit health-focused communications materials, including press releases, bylined articles, briefing documents, and award submissions.
Create compelling content that translates complex healthcare topics into clear, accessible narratives for business and industry audiences.
Develop and refine pitches that highlight client insights around healthcare trends, research, and industry innovation.
Review and edit team materials to ensure accuracy, clarity, and adherence to Highwire’s high standards.
Communicate professionally, clearly, and proactively with clients and colleagues.
Manage 2+ direct reports, establishing goals, providing feedback, and conducting performance reviews.
Foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment where creativity and accountability thrive.
Support new business initiatives by researching prospects, contributing to pitch strategy, and presenting to potential clients.
Represent Highwire at healthcare conferences, media events, and networking opportunities.
Model professionalism, enthusiasm, and respect in all interactions with clients and colleagues.
Contribute to Highwire’s own thought leadership, including writing for our blog or engaging through social channels.
Partner with senior leadership to establish and track quarterly development goals.
Demonstrate initiative in expanding industry knowledge and leadership capabilities.
Stay current on healthcare news, policy developments, and industry trends to inform client strategy.
Actively seek learning opportunities through industry events, webinars, and certifications.
Manage workload effectively, meet deadlines consistently, and communicate progress proactively.
Participate in Highwire professional development and mentorship programs to continue career growth.