Director, External Communications

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute•Boston, MA

About The Position

The Director of External Communications at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute plays a crucial role in enhancing the visibility and reputation of the Institute, boosting awareness and support for its mission to conquer cancer. Reporting to the Associate Deputy Chief of Communications, this position involves leading a team to execute proactive media outreach and responding to inquiries, while also assisting participating in rapid response and crisis mitigation. The director collaborates with both traditional and digital media platforms, requiring expertise in modern communication channels. Additionally, the role demands strong proactive project, account management and leadership skills and involves significant interaction with senior clinical, research, and administrative personnel. This role supports the Communications and Marketing Department's goal of positioning Dana-Farber as the premier cancer provider in the region and globally, as well as the partner, and employer of choice. Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS, and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

Requirements

Knowledge of healthcare and biomedical research, with the ability to comprehend complex scientific information and translate it into accessible language for diverse audiences.
In-depth understanding of media landscapes, including traditional and digital platforms, and the ability to cultivate and maintain strong relationships with reporters, editors, and producers globally.
Proficiency in supporting issues management and crisis communication, with the ability to lead efforts in mitigating potential risks and handling sensitive situations.
Ability to develop and implement comprehensive media relations strategies, including annual planning and budget management, to enhance the Institute's visibility and reputation.
Capability to lead and mentor a media relations team, fostering staff development and performance aligned with organizational goals.
Strong interpersonal skills to work closely with internal stakeholders, including senior leadership and faculty, as well as external partners from affiliated institutions and industry.
Exceptional verbal and written communication abilities, with expertise in training faculty and staff for media engagements, crafting persuasive promotional materials, and delivering impactful presentations to diverse audiences, including research faculty and administrators, to effectively convey the Institute's mission and accomplishments.
Ability to analyze media coverage and metrics.
Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism or related field required.
10 years of experience in media relations, public relations, or communications, proactively pitching stories to local and national media, managing crisis communications, and demonstrated proficiency in Associated Press style required.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree preferred.
Experience working in a healthcare or scientific research institution. Agency experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with media professionals, including reporters, editors, and producers, both locally and nationally. This involves understanding media landscapes and effectively engaging with media personnel to enhance the Institute's visibility and reputation.
Proactively pitch stories and lead the development of annual media relations planning and editorial calendars, ensuring alignment with Dana-Farber’s strategic goals. This includes creating executive briefing documents and ensuring alignment with the Institute's strategic goals to maximize media exposure.
Actively participate in crisis communications and issues management efforts. This involves preparing for and responding to potential risks, ensuring that the Institute's messaging is consistent and effective during challenging situations.
Train and prepare faculty and staff to effectively communicate with the media and represent the Institute. This includes developing communication skills and strategies to ensure accurate and impactful representation of the Institute's mission and achievements.
Lead the creation and dissemination of communications assets for scientific and patient care activities. Collaborate with clinicians and researchers to produce compelling materials that highlight the Institute's work and initiatives.
Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including affiliated institutions and industry partners, to enhance the Institute's visibility and communication efforts. This involves building networks and partnerships that support the Institute's goals and initiatives.
Hires and develops team members with the capabilities to achieve organizational goals. Defines and communicates clear expectations, provides regular constructive feedback, and evaluates performance against objectives. Oversees team’s compliance with organizational policies and procedures. Monitors work for efficiency, effectiveness, and quality. Mentors and coaches staff, facilitating training opportunities and supporting career growth. Works with senior management and Human Resources to address performance issues, as appropriate. Promotes and fosters a healthy and productive work environment within the team and with groups across the Institute.

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