Summary:
This position is
responsible for the development and implementation of strategic
communications campaigns and programs that advance Blue Cross’ statewide
community-based prevention initiatives. This position ensures that
campaigns are integrated across multiple communications channels and
will be responsible for leading the Center for Prevention’s ongoing work
in one or more of the following communications disciplines: public
relations, social marketing, content management and digital/interactive
communications. This role may also provide technical assistance and
training – focused on using communications to support policy, systems
and environmental changes – to organizations that receive funding
through the Center for Prevention.
Accountabilities:
1.
Provides strategic communications counsel; develops and implements
communications plans for defined Center for Prevention focus areas,
initiatives and projects. Responsible for ensuring communications plans
have clear goals, objectives and measurable outcomes, are fully
integrated and adhere to budget guidelines.
2. Leads the Center’s
ongoing work in one or more of the following communications disciplines:
public/media relations, social marketing, content management and
digital/interactive communications. While working in this capacity, the
Communications Principal may direct and provide feedback on the work of
other staff and outside consultants, at the discretion and under the
general supervision of the Communications Manager.
3. Directs the
work of external agencies and vendors. Participates in selection
process, provides regular feedback and manages associated budgets.
4.
Writes and edits a variety materials including: press releases,
promotional copy, commentaries, speeches, online content and internal
communications. May also review, provide feedback and approve
communications materials created by others when appropriate.
5.
Researches prevention communications and policy approaches being pursued
in other cities and states; employs strategies that have been proven
effective in other campaigns.
6. Actively identifies and implements
communications strategies and tactics that raise awareness of the
organization’s prevention initiatives externally and internally; uses
these opportunities to educate stakeholders on public health trends and
appropriate actions.
7. Builds and maintains strong relationships
with Blue Cross staff, community partners, statewide media and other key
stakeholders. May represent the Center for Prevention in coalitions
that support its policy goals, and serve as a spokesperson to media and
the community-at-large.
8. Serves as a liaison between the Center for
Prevention, corporate Blue Cross and the Blue Cross Foundation to
ensure communications adhere to corporate brand standards and are
well-aligned, while also meeting the Center’s communications needs and
objectives.
9. As assigned, provides technical assistance, training
and consulting to funded communities. Provides guidance on how to use
strategic communications to further agreed upon policy, systems and
environmental changes. Sources and/or develops appropriate training
materials, templates and other resources to support communications
technical assistance.
10. Serving as a member of the Center for
Prevention’s communications leadership team; represents communications
as primary member of cross-functional teams; acts as a counselor and
mentor to other professionals.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
-
Bachelors degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations,
Public Affairs, Business or related degree and 7 years of related work
experience; or 11 years of related work experience in lieu of a degree.
-
Demonstrated experience developing and implementing integrated
communications programs that include earned, paid, owned and social
media elements.
- Direct experience working on both public/media relations and advertising campaigns desirable.
-
Excellent writing, editing, and publication skills with demonstrated
ability to develop accurate and appropriate communications in a variety
of forms.
- Excellent oral and interpersonal communications skills;
ability to work and negotiate with key contacts, both internally and
externally.
- Demonstrated project management skills for coordinating the planning and implementation of major campaigns.
-
Excellent research, problem-solving and analytical skills with the
ability to work under tight time frames; adapts easily to change and
shifting priorities.
- Financial management and budgeting skills.
- Exceptional judgment, integrity and poise under pressure.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Advanced degree in business, public affairs, public relations, or communications is desirable.
- Demonstrated leadership experience; formal or informal leadership of people and projects.
- Experience or demonstrated interest in public policy; health-related is desirable.
- Experience working across the public, private and nonprofit sectors.
Blue
Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota is an Equal Opportunity and
Affirmative Action Employer, M/F/D/V. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of
Minnesota is a drug free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a
background check and drug test before beginning employment.
Apply online now.