Job Description

Join to apply for the Senior Director, Network Communications role at Westchester Medical Center Health Network

Job Summary: The Senior Director of Network Communications is the strategic communications leader overseeing external and internal communications for our nine-hospital, eight-campus academic health system, which spans approximately 6,200 square miles. This individual will design and lead an integrated communications program that strengthens the health system's brand, amplifies its achievements, and engages audiences across our region and beyond. Reporting to the SVP of Marketing and Strategic Communications, the Senior Director oversees all aspects of external communications, including public relations, media relations, owned media (newsroom, blog, publications), social media, and content strategy, ensuring a cohesive narrative that reflects our mission and values. This role serves as the editor-in-chief of our health system's story, driving brand journalism efforts to highlight clinical excellence, research innovation, and community impact. The Senior Director of Network Communications will play an important role in implementing a new internal communications platform, including a new Intranet and email software system. This person will work across campuses and departments to unify messaging, elevate our thought leadership, and build a trusted reputation for the organization.

Responsibilities:

1. Integrated Communications Strategy: Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy that aligns with the health system's mission, vision, and strategic priorities. Ensure messaging consistency across all channels and support organizational goals. Refine the strategy based on organizational needs and audience feedback.
2. Public and Media Relations: Oversee all public relations and media outreach efforts. Build relationships with media outlets and journalists. Develop press materials and serve as a primary spokesperson. Prepare leaders for media interactions.
3. Crisis Communications: Lead communication responses during crises or sensitive issues, ensuring transparency and authority. Collaborate with leadership to craft timely messages.
4. Owned Media & Brand Journalism: Manage the health system's owned media platforms. Create authentic content showcasing patient stories, research, and clinical expertise. Position the organization as a thought leader.
5. Social Media & Digital Engagement: Oversee social media strategies and daily operations. Plan campaigns, approve posts, monitor online conversations, and leverage digital formats to broaden reach.
6. Cross-Campus Coordination: Coordinate communication efforts across campuses. Establish regular touchpoints and develop system-wide narratives to unify messaging.
7. Thought Leadership & Executive Visibility: Collaborate with leadership to promote thought leadership opportunities, media appearances, and awards.
8. Marketing & Communication Initiatives: Ensure integration of communications with marketing campaigns. Support community and legislative communication needs.
9. Reputation Management: Monitor public image and media mentions. Manage response to misinformation and address high-profile concerns.
10. Team Leadership & Development: Lead the communications team, set goals, and foster a culture of creativity and accountability. Manage external vendors as needed.
11. Metrics & Evaluation: Define KPIs, analyze campaign effectiveness, and report to leadership. Use data to improve strategies.
12. Internal Communications: Lead internal communication strategies, including the launch of new platforms and employee engagement initiatives.

Qualifications/Requirements:

• Minimum of 10 years in communications or public relations, with at least 5 years in senior management. Experience in large health systems preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field. Master’s preferred.
• Strong knowledge of media relations, crisis management, project management, and strategic planning.
• Experience with SharePoint CMS is highly desirable.

Additional Attributes:

Strategic, creative, organized, proactive, resilient, and passionate about storytelling and organizational values.

Job Tags

Similar Jobs