Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, or a related fieldMinimum of five years of professional experience working in crisis communications or publications, effectively managing and mitigating situations that may threaten the reputation of an organizationProven experience in managing communications during critical situations, preferably within a healthcare or the academic setting.
Job Summary:
The Senior Media Communications Strategist will play a pivotal role in effectively managing and mitigating situations that may threaten the reputation of the organization, particularly as it relates to interactions with the news media and external audiences. Expertise in strategic communications and the ability to navigate sensitive issues will be instrumental to maintaining the reputation and public image of UTMB and developing relationships with a variety of stakeholders, including C-suite executives at the university, officials within the University of Texas System and leadership in UTMB's patient care, research, and education mission areas.
Job Duties:
•Develop and implement comprehensive communication strategies to address critical situations, including adverse events, reputation management, and other sensitive incidents.
•Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, providing strategic guidance and counsel during critical situations and the ability to work closely with UTMB's legal advisors to address sensitive public information requests and related issues.
•Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including patient care personnel, legal, public relations, and marketing departments, to ensure a cohesive and consistent communication approach.
•Prepare accurate and timely communication materials, including press releases, statements, talking points, FAQs and other proactive messaging to effectively respond to critical situations.
•Monitor media coverage and social media channels to identify emerging issues and proactively address any potential reputational risks.
•Act as a spokesperson for the institution, representing the organization in media interviews and public appearances during critical situations, when appropriate.
•Establish and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including media contacts, community leaders, and patient advocacy groups.
•Conduct thorough research and analysis to understand the impact of critical situations on UTMB's reputation, identifying opportunities for improvement and growth.
•Coordinate media crisis simulation exercises to enhance organizational preparedness and response capabilities.
•Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in crisis communication management, adapting strategies as needed to ensure the university remains at the forefront of effective communication during critical situations.
•When not managing a crisis event or developing communication materials related to the overall strategic messaging of the institution, assist with other writing responsibilities of the Department of Strategic Communications and Branding.
•Participate in the "on-call" schedule for all media/communications personnel at UTMB.
Preferred Qualifications:
•Strong understanding of the healthcare industry
•Ability to work well in a high-pressure environment that involves numerous deadlines and requests for comment from the news media
Salary Range:
Actual salary commensurate with experience.
Work Schedule:
Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm and as needed on occasion.
Equal Employment Opportunity
UTMB Health strives to provide equal opportunity employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law. As a VEVRAA Federal Contractor, UTMB Health takes affirmative action to hire and advance women, minorities, protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.