Director, External Communications

City of Hope•Zion, IL

About The Position

City of Hope's mission is to make hope a reality for all touched by cancer and diabetes. Founded in 1913, City of Hope has grown into one of the largest and most advanced cancer research and treatment organizations in the U.S., and one of the leading research centers for diabetes and other life-threatening illnesses. City of Hope research has been the basis for numerous breakthrough cancer medicines, as well as human synthetic insulin and monoclonal antibodies. With an independent, National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center that is ranked top 5 in the nation for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report at its core, City of Hope’s uniquely integrated model spans cancer care, research and development, academics and training, and a broad philanthropy program that powers its work. City of Hope’s growing national system includes its Los Angeles campus, a network of clinical care locations across Southern California, a new cancer center in Orange County, California, and cancer treatment centers and outpatient facilities in the Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix areas.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field. Relevant experience may be considered in lieu of education requirements.
Minimum of five (5) years of experience in marketing, communications, public relations, or a related field.
Minimum of two (2) years of leadership or people management experience.
At least one (1) year of healthcare marketing and communications experience.
Demonstrated experience in media relations, social media management, digital marketing, and strategic communications.
Strong project management, organizational, and stakeholder management skills.
Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication abilities.

Responsibilities

Leads the strategy, planning, and execution of all external communications initiatives for City of Hope Chicago.
Develops and maintains a coordinated, consistent communications approach across media relations, executive communications, social media, influencer engagement, and community outreach.
Oversees the development and execution of the monthly public relations plan, ensuring alignment across internal teams, agency partners, and cross-functional stakeholders.
Ensures that City of Hope's voice, messaging, and brand standards are consistently reflected across all communications channels.
Works closely with internal teams and agency partners to develop content, advance strategic initiatives, and maintain quality and consistency across platforms.
Leads internal communications related to public relations initiatives, ensuring clinical and non-clinical stakeholders are informed, aligned, and equipped to support organizational priorities.
Monitors, measures, and reports communication performance.
Maintains an active presence in the market through press conferences, community events, media opportunities, and brand activations.