BASIC FUNCTION

The Director of Communications will develop long-term communications and outreach strategy for the Engelberg Center for Health Care Reform (ECHCR), and then direct its implementation. This includes mapping out a strategic plan for external engagement (press, live and virtual events, online communications, partnership development, messaging); finding innovative ways to amplify ECHCR’s considerable body of research and expertise; and ensuring the Center’s brand – including its signature research — is executed at the highest level of rigor and quality that one would expect from the leading edge of healthcare innovation. A successful program will reach and influence the press, policymakers, business leaders, research partners/grant makers, healthcare practitioners, and eventually, the American public.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

A college degree is required; preferably in liberal arts or social sciences, and training in the field of journalism or public relations. At least eight years experience in strategic communications required. Ability to speak knowledgeably about health policy and present information to both the media and a broad general audience required. Experience working for a CEO, agency administrator, or other high profile public figure required.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS

The ideal candidate must have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills across all dimensions (written, verbal) with a track record of successful organizational communication leadership and solid relationships with members of the media. Candidate should have deep strategic communications and brand building expertise and diplomatic problem-solving skills, and a track record of successful team management. Flexibility within organizational structures and strong substantive expertise in healthcare policy is strongly preferred.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

40% Direct Strategic Communications

• Lead critical assessment of current external relations activities.
• Develop strategic communications plan, in collaboration with ECHCR and Brookings communications leadership in the central office of communications (COMM) and the Economic Studies program.
• Lead organizational message development efforts.
• Working with COMM, create strong branding platform inclusive of collateral materials design, web-based presence, and any other tools that are used by ECHCR to engage external audiences.

40% Lead External Engagement Activities

• Supervise and execute dynamic media relations program, and manage press resources (finding press opportunities, press release and other materials development, main point of contact for press, editorial boards, news assessments, media partnerships, collaboration with the Office of Communications).
• Provide direction/input on events strategy to ensure connectedness to overall external goals.
• Actively engage with partners, donors, potential funders, and other important stakeholders; includes on-site meeting participation, relationship cultivation and stewardship.
• Provide spokesperson training and message development.
• Offer strong support for research endeavor, by providing editorial support and writing guidance to research directors; focus on consistent and persuasive editorial composition and overall product quality.

20% Grant Support and Fundraising

• Provide strategic communication support for ECHCR grants and contribute to fundraising activity.
• Contribute to the development and execution of an ECHCR fundraising plan in collaboration with Center leadership, the Economic Studies Program’s Director of Strategic Development and External Affairs, and the Brookings Central Development office.
• Provide leadership, strategic guidance and support in identifying prospective donors, shaping grant applications, donor reports, and other fundraising materials.
• Collaborate with granting organizations and associated communications vendors in the leadership and execution of ECHCR’s communications efforts for specific Center projects.

Only applicants meeting minimum qualifications for the position will be considered. Successful completion of a background investigation is required for employment in this position. No phone calls please. Brookings welcomes resumes from all qualified applicants, particularly women and minorities.