MEDIA RELATIONS STRATEGIST (90100650)

FLSA Status

Job Role Summary

In collaboration with the Media & Public Affairs Manager and the Public Affairs & Communications team, the Media Relations Strategist assists with the development and coordination of public relations and communications activities for Eskenazi Health

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

•    Develops and coordinates media and public affairs activities for Eskenazi Health and supporting agencies working closely with the Director of Public Affairs & Communications, Media & Public Affairs Manager and departments in the consultation, planning and implementation of media programs and events to develop a positive public and community image of Eskenazi Health and increase patient referrals
•    Acts as a liaison between Eskenazi Health and the news media by responding to inquiries on a 24-hour basis regarding hospital activities, policies, issues and services
•    In conjunction with the Media & Public Affairs Manager, proactively initiates contact with news media to enhance awareness of strategic priorities, programs and services; including, but not limited to press releases and direct story pitches.
•    Maintains robust, accurate and up-to-date database of media contacts
•    Participates in the development and implementation of communication and outreach strategies to enhance positive image and brand of Eskenazi Health
•    Coordinates the development of communications tactics which may include newsletters, social media posts, direct-mail pieces, brochures, collateral, videos, print and radio advertising, annual reports and other projects identified through the outreach planning process
•    Help promote Eskenazi Health as experts in the field through local, statewide, regional and key national media relations.
•    Monitors quality and effectiveness of media relations programs, including benchmarking and monitoring media placements. Reports results to Director of Public Affairs and Communication and Media & Public Affairs Manager.
•    Coordinates media training activities for staff as appropriate and coordinates the weekend on-call schedule for the Public Affairs & Communications team
•    Participates in the development of communication strategies for Eskenazi Health
•    Coordinates various special projects related to Public Affairs & Communications activities including marketing, public relations, corporate communications, community relations and health promotions
•    Collaborates with Public Affairs & Communications staff to create and implement communication plans for various Eskenazi Health departments, projects and initiatives
•    Serves as staff writer and editor on appropriate internal and external publications and other communication tools in partnership with the content developer.
•    Helps with planning and execution of news conferences, briefings and other media-specific events
•    Provides or coordinates still photography and videography services as needed.
•    Responds to inquiries from the news media and coordinates the release of information on a 24-hour basis; helps plan and staff news conferences, briefings and other media/special events
 

Job Requirements

•    Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, business, public relations, journalism or related discipline
•    A minimum of two years progressive professional experience in health care communications preferred
•    Experience working with the Indianapolis news media preferred
•    Valid Indiana Driver’s license that meets Eskenazi Health’s driving policy requirements
 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

•    High levels of accuracy, productivity and good judgment required in developing and maintaining a positive image of Eskenazi Health
•    Flexibility and ability to work effectively with physicians, administrators, department heads, staff, etc. of Eskenazi Health and affiliated institutions and community leaders
•    Superior written and verbal communication skills
•    Able to handle multiple responsibilities and tasks, and meet tight deadlines
•    Experienced with Microsoft Word and Excel. Able to conduct Internet and other kinds of research
•    Detail oriented with solid organizational ability
•    Composed, articulate and comfortable in public speaking
•    Self-starter, able to work with minimal supervision
•    Creative, innovative; enjoys conceiving new ideas
•    Able to use age-appropriate communication skills
•    Willing to travel locally to meet with clients and work weekends and evenings for events and when on-call