The Integrated Communications Strategy Director is responsible for developing, managing and executing communications strategies that raise awareness and promote engagement around key AARP initiatives.
The three major components of the position are 1) Leading the development of a strategic approach to health communications 2) Oversee the execution of the strategy and 3) Measure and report results. This particular position focuses on AARP’s work and resources on health issues, such as Medicare, Medicaid, brain health, wellness and prevention. The Director has no direct reports, but manages a cross-enterprise team of content creators, channel managers, subject-matter experts and others who contribute to the strategy and execution.
- Develop proactive, multi-channel communications campaign plans to support AARP’s health-related initiatives.
- Maintain high credibility with colleagues on the Content and Marketing teams and clients throughout the association. Be adept at building teams across disciplines to achieve goals.
- Serve as a liaison between the Integrated Communications & Marketing (ICM) group and other AARP departments/initiatives across the enterprise, including Policy and Research.
- During annual planning, lead the development of communications and marketing plans for all health-related activities. Throughout the year, manage budgets related to health communications and marketing.
- Demonstrate a depth of knowledge about health issues of importance to AARP and its members, such as Medicare, Medicaid, brain health, wellness and prevention.
- Exhibit a breadth of knowledge of all aspects of Integrated Communications & Marketing, including social communications, story development, budgeting, project management and the collection and reporting of data to measure results.
- Maintain close relationships with the leaders of AARP’s various communications channels and integrate them into the planning processes as appropriate.
- Deliver seasoned judgment and insightful, intelligent and creative advice to senior-level leaders of AARP initiatives and departments.
- Monitor external groups in the health policy landscape and seek opportunities, as appropriate, to partner on key initiatives.
- Manage contracts with association vendors and other consultants, as appropriate.
- Demonstrate exemplary cultural attributes, collaboration and leadership behaviors in all interactions.
- 8-10 years of experience in developing communications/public relations strategies for a variety of clients.
- Demonstrate a strong knowledge of organizational priorities, goals, and projects (especially enterprise and communications priorities).
- Possess strong client service orientation, project management and account management skills.
- Demonstrate excellent understanding of, and ability to work within, organizational politics, networks and a matrix management system.
- Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills (e.g. listening, negotiating, facilitating, managing conflict, flexibility, etc.).
- Experience managing coalitions and partnerships a plus.
- Possess excellent writing and oral communication skills.
AARP offers competitive benefits with a 401K, 100% company funded pension plan, health, dental, vision and life insurance, STD/LTD, paid vacation and sick, and other benefits.