The Alzheimer's Association is looking for an experienced, dynamic communications professional to create, plan, execute and manage proactive research/science media relations efforts with consumer, science and health media targets. This includes research and proactive pitch development, active engagement with reporters for traditional and new media, and fulfilling reactive media needs.
Responsibilities include driving media relations strategies and leading integration across all marketing communications channels; following and capitalizing on news media trends; and working effectively with internal and external constituents to extend the reach and leadership position of the Alzheimer's Association. Key to these efforts is a thorough knowledge of the evolving news media environment with the goal of expanding the media targets and tactics used to communicate the Association's leadership.
This person is expected to contribute to supporting and coaching the Association's local Chapters in their media relations/communications efforts, and to building their capacity to communicate effectively about the Association's research and science initiatives.
- Create, maintain and execute against a 6-12 month calendar of proactive research/science story pitches.
- Follow through on reactive news opportunities, develop strategy and media target(s), create appropriate news materials and talking points, identify and prepare spokespeople, pitch and develop stories with media, report and share results.
- Maintain regular contact with staff scientists to uncover news opportunities, including through the Alzheimer's Association's grantmaking, peer-reviewed journals, and other science-related initiatives, both established and emerging.
- Establish and maintain additional needed relationships (for example: journal editor(s), funded scientists, grant reviewers, chapter-based communicators, other staff and volunteers).
- Participate in reactive news media response. Will include communicating with reporters; reviewing scientific material; drafting talking points, position statements, Q&A and quotes; arranging interviews; and coaching spokespeople.
- Assist with implementation of the Alzheimer's Association International Conference, as needed.
- 5-7 years professional public relations/communications experience.
- Public relations agency and/or health- or science-related organization experience preferred.
- Excellent interpersonal skills.
- Experience managing detailed and scientific information.
- Outstanding – and audience-appropriate – written and verbal communication skills in high volume environments and with multiple audiences.
- Ability to effectively set and meet deadlines; ability to manage multiple projects in a deadline-driven environment with changing priorities.
- Ability to travel as needed. Some evening and weekend hours required.