Dir, Community Relations

Erlanger Health System•Chattanooga, TN

20h

About The Position

The Community Relations Director is responsible for developing and nurturing relationships between Erlanger Health System and the broader community deepening the organizations visibility, relevance, and reputation among key external constituencies. This role works at the intersection of engagement and advocacy, overseeing a portfolio of partnerships with schools, churches, nonprofits, civic groups, athletic organizations, entrepreneurs, and local businesses. The Community Relations Director also plays a critical role in supporting the Erlanger Health Foundation, building relationships with business leaders and community stakeholders that lead to increased sponsorship, participation, and philanthropic partnership. This position oversees a small but strategic team focused on community giving, events, and external visibility. Erlanger Health System is deeply embedded in the fabric of Chattanooga and its surrounding region serving not only as a provider of clinical care but as a vital community partner. As part of the systems growing, mission-aligned Marketing & Communications team, the Community Relations Director plays a pivotal role in strengthening the organizations visibility, relationships, and reputation across a wide array of community sectors. Reporting to the Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, the Community Relations Director serves as Erlanger's bridge to community and advocacy groups, schools, churches, sports teams, civic organizations, and the business community. This position is a key member of the Director Leadership Team, working in partnership with the Development Director, Marketing Director, Communications Director, Creative Director, and Digital & Web Strategy Director to ensure Erlanger's public engagement strategy is collaborative, community-centered, and brand-aligned.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in public relations, Community Engagement, Business, Nonprofit Management, or a related field
5-7 years of experience in community relations, external affairs, business development, or public engagement
Proven ability to build strategic partnerships with community organizations and business leaders
Excellent interpersonal communication skills and a public-service mindset

Nice To Haves

Experience in healthcare, nonprofit, or philanthropic environments
Familiarity with fundraising events, sponsorship development, or CRM systems
Background in multicultural engagement or grassroots organizing

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a comprehensive community engagement plan that aligns with Erlanger's brand values and strategic objectives.
Cultivate partnerships with the community at large, including local schools, sports leagues, churches, advocacy organizations, and nonprofits to increase Erlanger's visibility and trust in the community.
Represent Erlanger at key civic events, community meetings, and local gatherings to build relationships and advocate for the systems role as a health and wellness leader.
Partner with the Development Director and Foundation team to cultivate relationships with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and CEOs for the purpose of event sponsorships and philanthropic support.
Identify and steward corporate and small business partners whose missions align with Erlanger's values.
Actively participate in event planning, campaign coordination, and sponsorship fulfillment to ensure meaningful participation from the business community.
Oversee the planning and execution of high-impact community facing events both signature Erlanger-led efforts and externally sponsored initiatives.
Supervise the Event Specialist and Sporting Event Specialist, ensuring the successful delivery of programs that engage the community and enhance Erlanger's public presence.
Coordinate closely with the Foundations Events Partner and the Marketing/Creative teams to ensure brand consistency and logistical excellence.
Collaborate with members of the Director Leadership Team to ensure alignment between marketing campaigns, public relations efforts, development initiatives, and community partnerships.
Share insights and opportunities with peers to inform outreach, sponsorship strategy, and storytelling.
Contribute to quarterly leadership meetings, cross-functional planning sessions, and systemwide engagement strategy development.
Manage a team that includes: - Children's Miracle Network & Community Giving Manager - Event Specialist - Sporting Event Specialist
Provide coaching, performance management, and strategic direction to direct reports to ensure outcomes aligned with organizational and community goals.
Foster a culture of visibility, authenticity, responsiveness, and professional integrity.