The mission of The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center is to eliminate cancer in Texas, the nation, and the world through outstanding programs that integrate patient care, research and prevention, and through education for undergraduate and graduate students, trainees, professionals, employees and the public. 

SUMMARY 

The Program Manager, Communications, reports to the Program Director, Communications, Public Relations, and is responsible for owning, developing and executing on the institution’s external awards strategy, including thought leadership platform work. The Program Manager will work closely with members of the Public Relations team, colleagues in Institutional Affairs and the President’s Office, as well as institutional leaders and faculty to develop top-rated, multi-channel awards submissions for a variety of institutional priorities. Leads PR agency relationship to facilitate thought leadership opportunities, awards process and completion of submissions. Also will assist PR team with support, as needed. 

The ideal candidate will have experience with writing or public relations in a health care environment. Additionally, experience with knowledge and understanding of developing materials and submissions for award nominations is also preferred.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES 
 

Writing, content development and submission of external awards

• With oversight from PD, own, develop and execute strategy to nominate leadership, faculty and staff for prioritized external awards driven by media outlets.
• Leads process to define awards for completion at start of the year followed by ongoing cultivation of opportunities based on strategy. Coordinates writing, content creation, review and approval for all awards submissions, with support from PR agency.
• Builds constructive relationships with colleagues across the institution to maximize opportunities and complete work efficiently and professionally. 

Expands quality of submissions

• Partners with IA teams (video, design, etc.) to build out multi-channel nomination packages.
• Thinks proactively about opportunities to create new assets and packages to elevate quality of submissions.

Thought leadership platform development

• Works with PD and PR agency to explore thought leadership platform opportunities (e.g., speaking opportunities, panels, etc.) that support improved awards submission packets and institutional priorities.
• Coordinate inclusion of MD Anderson experts in such opportunities and facilitate an efficient process to encourage participation in high-profile events. 

Awards database leadership and management

• Works closely with PD, PR agency and PR team colleagues to proactively research, prioritize and maintain awards database.
• Manages PR agency facilitation of database, ensure accurate and timely information available to those involved, including tracking of wins, losses and any relevant information.

Metrics and tracking

• Track, measure and report results for awards submissions and successes.
• Develop dashboard to track key metrics and provide monthly updates to leadership. 
• Assists with analyzing efforts on an ongoing basis to make informed decisions about next steps and success measurements. 

Budget management

• Review awards opportunities to define annual budget, including submission costs and any needed subscriptions. 

Other duties as assigned