Director Communications and Community Engagement

Director, Communications & Community Engagement - Join Our Big-Hearted Team

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact in a vibrant, premier Life Plan Community? Join our exceptional team Hybrid/Remote 2/3 from our Administration Offices in Surprise, AZ!

Your Mission: The Director of Communications & Community Engagement leads Sun Health's communications strategy and community partnerships to advance Sun Health's mission, strategic priorities, and positive public image. This role owns internal and external communications and community relations while developing strategic partnerships that support organizational growth and alignment, community presence, stakeholder engagement, and philanthropic initiatives.

Why Choose Us?

• Great Place to Work: Sun Health has been certified as a Great Place to Work in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
• National Recognition: We secured a top 10 spot on the Fortune Best Workplaces for Aging Services™ list in 2020 and 2021.
• Platinum Award Winner: Our dedication to health and safety earned us Platinum awards from the Healthy Arizona Worksites Program in 2019, 2020, and 2021.

Key Responsibilities:

Communications Strategy & Messaging (estimated 50% of role)

• Define and manage organizational voice, messaging, and positioning
• Develop messaging frameworks for brand awareness, marketing initiatives, and philanthropic goals
• Support executive communications, anticipate organizational needs, and lead planning, independently
• Coordinate and execute internal communications to various stakeholders including boards of directors, team members, and Sun Health community residents
• Set editorial direction and priorities, inclusive of Sun Health's bimonthly magazine, LiveWell
• Lead media relations and external communications efforts
• Develop and execute crisis communication strategies
• Partner with division leaders and community partners to elevate impact-driven stories

Strategic Partnerships & External Relations (estimated 50% of role)

• Identify, build and manage relationships with key community partners, specifically in the SW Valley, to advance Sun Health's mission and foster long-term engagement
• Collaborate with senior and executive leadership to advance partnerships and external engagement
• Develop partnership strategies and lead programmatic collaborations
• Serve as the Southwest Valley's community-facing Sun Health champion, serving on boards and committees, attending meetings and special events, and leading grassroots relationships to advance Sun Health's mission. Maintain flexible schedule to participate in activities that may occur in the early morning, evening, and weekends.
• Track and evaluate partnership effectiveness and impact and prepare regular executive updates on community relations initiatives

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience:

• Strong expertise in communications strategy, PR, and messaging
• Excellent writing, editing, and verbal communication skills
• Ability to clearly articulate Sun Health's value proposition and negotiate terms with partners
• Strong relationship-building and partnership-development skills
• Experience in media relations and reputation management
• Strong strategic thinking and stakeholder influence skills
• Ability to manage complex and sensitive communications
• High degree of professionalism and excellent external representation and presentation skills
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and effectively manage employees and community stakeholders

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, or related field, required
• 7 years of experience in communications, public relations, journalism or corporate communications
• 5 years of leadership experience managing communications initiatives, teams, or cross-functional programs
• 5 years of experience managing external partnerships or community engagement initiatives
• Prior experience with healthcare, senior living, nonprofit, or community-based organizations
• Possess current or ability to obtain a Level 1 Fingerprint Clearance Card is required
• Requires reliable transportation in employee provided vehicle, current Driver's license and auto insurance

Employee Benefits:

• Comprehensive health benefits (Medical, Dental & Vision).
• 401k with immediate vesting and up to 4% employer match.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Exclusive discounts through The Employee Network.
• Access to the Employee Association, supporting team members in need.

Equal Employment Opportunity: At Sun Health, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. We do not tolerate discrimination or harassment and are dedicated to promoting equal employment opportunities for all.

Join us and be a part of a community that cares for its residents and team members alike.

Apply today!