Director, AONL Advocacy and External Communications

American Hospital Association•Chicago, IL

5d•$126,000 - $190,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Responsible for directing the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL) advocacy communications plans and external engagement efforts to advance policy priorities impacting nurse leaders and the nursing workforce. Develop and deliver strategic messaging to policymakers, media, members and stakeholders, while monitoring legislative and media landscapes. Serve as key communications liaison across AONL, the American Hospital Association (AHA) and national coalitions, including the Tri-Council for Nursing, to ensure alignment and maximize advocacy impact.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree Journalism, Communications, Political Science, Public Policy, Health Care Required
7+ years Advocacy and external communications professional work experience Required
Experience working in issue advocacy, grassroots mobilization or campaigns Required
Demonstrated expertise in creating, executing and evaluating public policy initiatives, advocacy, crisis management, stakeholder management and coalition building Required
Extensive experience in writing and editing a variety of materials, as well as the ability to break down complex issues in easy-to-understand language - Required
Experience managing and delivering top-notch communication materials - Required
Advanced knowledge of media relations/external communications best practices and strategies - Required
Intermediate computer and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) skills - Required
Knowledge of advocacy and communication platforms - Required
Ability to work with a diverse group of people, at all level of the organization and board, as well as external stakeholders - Preferred
Ability to work both independently and as a team player - Required
Proven ability to work in a fast-moving environment and can adapt to changing priorities and deadlines - Required
Ability to plan and manage complex problems - Required
Ability to grasp complex issues and create understandable and relevant materials for AONL members and the nursing field - Required
Ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues across departments of the AHA and AONL, with AONL leadership, outside stakeholders and vendors - Required
Ability to work under tight deadlines is necessary - Required
Proven ability to think creatively to solve problems - Required

Nice To Haves

Advanced knowledge of social media and the Web - Preferred

Responsibilities

Develop and implement communications plans to spotlight the good work led by nurse leaders, AONL’s advocacy efforts and policy strategies to elevate the AONL voice and increase the value of AONL membership.
Develop and articulate AONL’s position on policy issues affecting the nursing workforce, education and practice, leveraging professional expertise to influence policy development.
Direct various communications efforts and provide communications counsel and editorial assistance on numerous projects. Work with advocacy team to edit and review comment letters, regulatory advisories and other special member communications. Develop communication strategies to support various initiatives from AONL-related groups.
Monitor relevant legislative activity, regulatory developments and media coverage; develop reports and briefings for AONL senior leadership.
Identify and implement targeted public policy efforts to create impactful advocacy campaigns, utilizing independent judgment to navigate complex issues in the nursing field.
Develop and execute proactive and reactive media strategies, including press releases, statements, op-eds and media outreach in coordination with AHA communications.
Strengthen relationships with external stakeholders to support AONL strategic goals, acting as a key liaison for affiliate organizations and fostering partnerships on critical issues.
Identify and create resources to support nurse leaders in navigating the current healthcare landscape, utilizing digital platforms for effective communication.
Serve as the primary backup to Senior Director of AONL Advocacy and External Communications.
Perform other duties as assigned.