Internal Communications Strategist

Erlanger Health System•Chattanooga, TN

13d

About The Position

The Internal Communications Strategist is responsible for designing, implementing, and continuously improving the system of internal communications at Erlanger Health System. This individual manages internal content channels, supports executive and departmental messaging, and creates communications campaigns that inform, unify, and motivate Erlanger's employees. While the role supports aspects of system-wide initiatives that may overlap with external communications (e.g., reputation management, announcements, or public health campaigns), its core focus is building a transparent and strategic communications infrastructure inside the organization. The ideal candidate will bring a mix of writing ability, systems thinking, and staff engagement skills capable of translating complex information into actionable, human-centered messages across internal channels and diverse employee groups. As a large, multi-facility health system serving a diverse and mission-driven workforce, Erlanger Health System recognizes that internal communication is not only about information sharing it's about building trust, reinforcing culture, and enabling operational excellence at every level. The Internal Communications Manager plays a central role in strengthening organizational alignment, engagement, and morale across all levels of the system. Reporting to the Communications Director, the Internal Communications Manager ensures that staff, clinicians, and leadership across Erlanger's departments and facilities remain informed, connected, and empowered. This role helps translate high-level initiatives, announcements, and campaigns into clear, timely, and relevant communication for internal audiences from front-line nurses to department managers to system executives.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Organizational Development, or related field
5+ years of experience in internal or employee communications, preferably in large, complex organizations
Demonstrated ability to write and edit for clarity, tone, and engagement across diverse staff groups
Proficiency with communications platforms such as SharePoint, Mailchimp, or similar intranet/email tools

Nice To Haves

Healthcare, higher education, or nonprofit communications experience
Experience managing internal communications during crisis or change
Background in employee engagement, HR communications, or organizational culture initiatives

Responsibilities

Develop and maintain an internal communications calendar aligned with system priorities, major announcements, executive messages, and cultural campaigns.
Craft clear, relevant internal communications that reflect Erlanger's voice and values across email, intranet, internal newsletters, digital signage, and other platforms.
Partner with HR, department heads, and hospital operations to cascade timely, key updates across clinical and administrative environments.
Support the Communications Director and system executives in preparing leadership updates, town halls, strategic announcements, and other internal-facing communications.
Collaborate with marketing, operations, and service line leadership to ensure communications consistency and effectiveness across departments.
Provide editorial guidance and message development support for department-led initiatives or internal campaigns.
Manage internal communication platforms (e.g., intranet, employee newsletters, Teams posts, digital displays), ensuring content is current, engaging, and accessible.
Evaluate communication effectiveness through feedback loops, surveys, and metrics; adjust strategies based on employee needs and outcomes.
Coordinate with IT and other stakeholders on tools that support more effective internal communications delivery.
Contribute to crisis or urgent communications plans in partnership with the Communications Director and external partners, ensuring consistent internal messaging.
Provide communications support for organizational change efforts, policy shifts, new programs, or leadership transitions helping teams stay aligned through periods of transformation.
Establish and maintain trusted relationships across departments to serve as a go-to communications resource.
Identify key internal contacts (e.g., service line leaders, clinical directors, Foundation leadership) to streamline message development and campaign collaboration.
Stay attuned to internal developments that may require proactive messaging or communications support.