Job Description

Location: Nashville, TN (On-Site)

Seeking a Senior Director of External Communications to lead and execute strategic communications for a leading health and hospital system. This role will be responsible for shaping the organization's public image, strengthening media relationships, and enhancing stakeholder engagement. The ideal candidate will have deep experience in healthcare communications , including media relations, crisis management, and executive visibility.

• Develop and implement a comprehensive external communications strategy to enhance the organization's reputation across media, industry stakeholders, and the public.
• Serve as the primary media contact , fostering strong relationships with healthcare, business, and national press.
• Lead crisis communications efforts, ensuring rapid, strategic, and effective responses to emerging issues.
• Oversee executive visibility and thought leadership programs, including speechwriting, op-eds, and media training.
• Collaborate with government affairs, marketing, and internal communications teams to align messaging and public positioning.
• Manage media monitoring and analytics to track coverage, sentiment, and effectiveness of communications strategies.
• Supervise and mentor a high-performing communications team , providing guidance on messaging, storytelling, and media outreach.
• Ensure all external communications adhere to compliance and regulatory guidelines specific to the healthcare industry.

• 9+ years of experience in healthcare communications, media relations, or public affairs , preferably within a hospital system, health provider network, or healthcare PR agency.
• Proven ability to develop and execute high-impact media strategies , including proactive and reactive outreach.
• Expertise in crisis and issues management , with a track record of effectively handling reputational risks.
• Strong relationships with healthcare and business media outlets at local, national, and trade levels.
• Experience advising C-suite executives on public positioning, messaging, and media opportunities.
• Excellent writing, editing, and presentation skills , with the ability to translate complex healthcare topics into compelling narratives.
• Deep knowledge of health policy, regulatory environments, and hospital operations .
• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field (Master's preferred).

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