Director Of Communications-Stand Up To Cancer
SUMMARY
Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C), a California non-profit public benefit corporation, is seeking a Communications Director. The Communications Director has a key role in the execution of communication strategies that increase the awareness and relevance of Stand Up To Cancer among key audiences and the general public. The Communications Director’s core responsibilities include writing, editing, materials development, media relations, and supporting the VP and SVP Communications in ongoing media relations efforts. This position requires exceptionally strong writing and editing skills and a willingness to learn about the healthcare industry and translate cancer research information into lay-friendly materials.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
To be successful, an individual must perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and ability required.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
SU2C reserves the right to modify the job responsibilities listed below.
- Participate in the development and execution of public relations strategies designed to convey mission and messages to its various constituencies, including, but not limited to the donors, and the general public.
- Identify and vet impact stories of researchers, patients, survivors, and donors to bring SU2C’s story to life.
- Develop high-quality written materials, including press releases, media strategies, talking points, key messaging, internal communications materials, etc.
- Interpret and translate cancer research-related content into lay-friendly written materials.
- Direct proactive press relations: identify, establish, & maintain personal relationships w/ key in health/science and philanthropic “trade” press and relevant national and regional and print outlets.
- Actively participate in the development, production, and execution of press conferences and events, as required.
- Work directly with the SVP Communications and VP Communications to support assigned including driving media coverage for PSAs, cause-related marketing spots, grassroots awareness months, events, key science developments, and other key initiatives.
- Support crisis communications, as required.
- Collaborate with other departments and administrative staff as needed.
- Attend departmental and other meetings as required.
- Perform all other job-related duties as assigned.
CORE COMPETENCIES
- Demonstrate strong organizational and time management skills with the capacity to be highly task-oriented.
- Demonstrate personal compatibility with and commitment to SU2C’s philosophies and mission while maintaining a high degree of professionalism.
- Demonstrate the ability to work independently, creatively, efficiently, and cooperatively in a fast-paced environment.
- Professional demeanor exhibiting the ability to listen actively and to communicate effectively (both orally and in writing), persuasively, and with confidence.
- Personable, approachable, and able to build relationships and trust with employees and management.
- Proactive problem-solving skills.
- Exceptional attention to detail.
- The ability to multi-task, work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while maintaining extreme attention to detail and refocus as the job and situations demand.
- The ability to work within a team and establish strong working relationships with individuals of diverse backgrounds and abilities.
EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE
- A bachelor’s degree in public relations, English, journalism, or relevant field from an accredited institution of higher education required.
- A minimum of 7-10 years in a communications/public relations function required.
- Communications experience in the healthcare industry or a related field is required. PR agency experience is preferred.
- Demonstrated experience in media relations with strong media contacts (health, general consumer) at national, regional and trade media outlets.
- Proven, excellent written and verbal communication skills required. Strong interpersonal skills required. Strong copy editing skills required. Attention to detail is a must.
- Highly collaborative style; positive attitude and strong work ethic.
- Business acumen with working knowledge of Cision, Muck Rack, Microsoft Office, Word, Excel and PowerPoint required. Strong skills in Excel and PowerPoint desired.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Some travel may be required.
- Ability to sit for extended periods
- Frequent alpha/numeric keyboarding
- Ability to view a computer monitor
- Operate standard office equipment
- Lift and carry boxes up to ten pounds
- File and retrieve documents
SALARY RANGE: $85,000 -$95,000
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
SU2C is an equal opportunity employer. It considers applicants for all positions without regard to age (40 or older), ancestry, color, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), disability (either mental or physical, including HIV and AIDS), cancer, genetic characteristics, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, national origin (including language use restrictions), race, sex (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.