The American Heart Association has an excellent opportunity for a Director, Science Media Relations in our Public and Media Relations department based out of our National Centeroffice located in Dallas, TX ! This individual will be responsible for the development and implementation of multi-year strategic communication plans supporting and promoting AHA scientific statements/guidelines/advisories and scientific advances published in AHA’s signature medical journals and presented at AHA meetings/conferences through traditional media, social media and on other AHA owned channels. Responsible for developing appropriate resources to advance understanding and promotion of AHA as a leading science voice and AHA’s impact goal. Responsible for oversight, reviews, goal development and mentoring of the science media relations.
- Responsible for the development and implementation of multi-year strategic communication plans supporting and promoting AHA scientific statements/guidelines/advisories, positions, products (statistical update, Top 10 Research Advances) and scientific advances published in AHA’s signature medical journals and presented at AHA meetings/conferences through traditional and social media, as well as AHA owned channels
- Drive consumer and trade media engagement by developing strategies that will garner coverage in targeted media outlets and amplify the department’s impact on AHA’s life-saving mission among volunteers, internal stakeholders and external partners. Develops media opportunities and relationships for advancement of AHA’s goals. Identifies and capitalizes on opportunities to strengthening relationships with strategic alliances and external partners (ACC, ESC, etc.). Monitors and translates science, health and industry news related to assigned initiatives or programs to provide ongoing and innovative pitches/communications tools to optimize communications reach
- Directs and manages communications team to collaborate with internal departments and program leads. Guides team to encourage creativity and growth in implementation of communications plan
- Prepares and presents plans, reports and messaging to senior leadership to engage staff and volunteer support
- Oversees and manages resources to maximize coverage while remaining fiscally responsible
- Monitors the media landscape to ensure AHA can respond appropriately to breaking news related to heart and brain health and mitigate risk
- At least eight (8) years of relevant experience
- Extensive and diverse communications experience including developing strategic plans
- Experience leading, supervising, and coaching staff
- Budget development and oversight experience
- Ability to communicate complex concepts to consumer audiences
- Extensive media relations experience
- Prior experience in Public Relations; agency or national corporation
- Prior experience communicating health/medical information or scientific concepts
- Accredited in Public Relations (APR) or Certified PR Counselor (CPRC) preferred
- Ability to travel up to 20% local and overnight stay