External Communications Senior Specialist

External Communications Senior Specialist

The External Communications Senior Specialist plays a critical role on the Mass General Brigham (MGB) team, effectively supporting the development and implementation of an organization-wide public relations and communications strategy. The Senior Specialist proactively seeks out newsworthy research findings, important system initiatives and engaging patient stories to pitch them to members of the national, regional and local media and support a positive image of the MGB healthcare system. The Senior Specialist communicates MGB clinical and institutional activities through an ongoing media relations and communications program, including the development and dissemination of newsworthy materials. Duties involve developing communication materials, including proactive media pitching, media advisories, press releases, reactive response and interview prep documents. Reporting to and working closely with the Director, the Senior Specialist will collaborate with the Program Manager and team members to promote key initiatives, efforts, research, patient stories, and thought leadership in different key areas. The Senior Specialist also must be capable of handling numerous responsibilities and media inquiries simultaneously. They must have strong, multi-faceted communication expertise with an emphasis on writing skills, digital media, organizational savvy / relationship skills, and the ability to meet deadlines. Excellent communication skills, including writing, a fresh and creative approach to engaging media, as well as strong organizational abilities are essential, as is the capacity to plan, coordinate and evaluate multiple projects and programs. The position requires strong professional skills, a collaborative spirit, and the ability to establish priorities and work well under pressure and tight deadlines. Also required are an understanding of and respect for sensitive issues related to patient care and confidentiality, as well as an understanding of and appreciation for embargoes associated with scientific publication in peer-reviewed journals. The Senior Specialist must be able to work as a team member as well as independently on projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in journalism, public relations, English, communications or related field. Minimum 4-5 years of public relations or communications experience.
• Must have experience in media relations and / or experience in or with news media. Must have strong verbal and written communication skills including a thorough understanding of correct grammar; experience in writing news releases, advisories, pitch letters, statements and talking points; and ability to create targeted messages for a variety of media outlets.
• Knowledge and proficiency in the use of communication-based technology platforms.
• A track record of consistently meeting performance measures and service standards.
• Knowledge of Mass General Brigham institutions, communication channels and processes a plus.
• Must understand the importance of balancing the information needs of the media while keeping the best interests and right to privacy of patients first and foremost.
• Must be an effective and accurate writer who understands the importance of and is committed to meeting deadlines. Ability to turn complicated clinical information into relatable communication a must.
• Must possess excellent interpersonal, public speaking and presentation skills.
• Science writing experience a plus.

Principal Duties And Responsibilities

Skills / Abilities / Competencies

Additional Job Details (if applicable)

Remote Type

Hybrid

Work Location

399 Revolution Drive

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Employee Type

Regular

Work Shift

Day (United States of America)

EEO Statement

Mass General Brigham Incorporated is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and / or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. To ensure reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Veteran's Readjustment Act of 1974, and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicants who require accommodation in the job application process may contact Human Resources at (857)-282-7642.

Mass General Brigham Competency Framework

At Mass General Brigham, our competency framework defines what effective leadership "looks like" by specifying which behaviors are most critical for successful performance at each job level. The framework is comprised of ten competencies (half People-Focused, half Performance-Focused) and are defined by observable and measurable skills and behaviors that contribute to workplace effectiveness and career success. These competencies are used to evaluate performance, make hiring decisions, identify development needs, mobilize employees across our system, and establish a strong talent pipeline.