Summary

To manage comprehensive public relations, media relations and social media programs to support strategic goals and system marketing and public relations plans for key clinical and ancillary areas. To provide public relations counsel, editorial services and crisis planning/response for key strategic initiatives, programs, special projects, events and/or breaking news or potential crises; ensure a positive and cohesive public image through various collateral materials and social media sites; communicate the system mission and vision to the media through an ongoing media relations and communications program, including the development and dissemination of news, feature and photo releases, proactive and reactive media contacts and crisis communications. This role also plays a critical role in ensuring Guthrie’s internal voice aligns with these external efforts and strategic priorities.

Directly accountable to the Sr. Director of Marketing and Communications while serving in an advisory role to the EVP, Chief Strategy Officer and senior management. 

Experience

Bachelor's degree in journalism, public relations, communications or equivalent knowledge, with a minimum of five to seven years of relevant experience. Must have health care experience. 

Proven results in developing and implementing active media relations programs. Demonstrated competence in written, oral and electronic communications.  Must possess excellent project management and problem-solving skills. Motivates staff to achieve high individual and team results.

Education

B.A or B.S. in Journalism, Communications, Marketing or related discipline required. 

Essential Functions

Manage two members of the Communications team.Develop and maintain an active crisis communications plan. Help identify and manage crisis communications to effectively coordinate media relations during emergency situations.Develop and implement strategic community relations programs designed to not only benefit the communities the system serves, but also to gain broad exposure for the health system and key services. Serve as a key department contact and resource for Vice President of Government and Community Affairs. Identify opportunities and develop recommendations to strategically position Guthrie with various audiences that emphasize its public image as a fair and caring employer, a compassionate leader of quality healthcare services, a valued community member and advocate for key health care issues. Develop social media strategy that ensures continual online presence and consistent messaging, including measures of impact. Provide after-hours media coverage for system events and supports regional public relations and marketing staff with after-hours media coverage as needed.Write and implement communications plans for health system issues, capital projects and major organizational endeavors. Collaborates with Marketing Manager to align communications and marketing efforts. Recommend proactive strategies to obtain media coverage and advance health system messages. Serve as the media strategist for the health system. Consult with product-line and regional managers/directors regarding media planning. Develop Strategic Plans for media/community relations/social media plan and corresponding budget.Collaborates with Communications Strategist to align external and internal messaging around key strategic initiatives.

 

Other Duties

Able to develop a clear vision for the Public Relations function and how it best supports The Guthrie Clinic and each Guthrie entity.Able to effectively complement the marketing strategies with media pitches and internal communications to build business for Guthrie entities. Able to develop and maintain strong and credible relationships with media.Demonstrates personal and professional integrity, including discretion and confidentiality.

update 12-27-24