Assistant Director of Communications and Strategic Partnerships

About the role

The Assistant Director of Communications and Strategic Partnerships is responsible for leading the development and execution of an integrated communications strategy that advances the mission, visibility, and strategic priorities of the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center (HICCC). This position oversees editorial planning, digital and print communications, media relations, promotion, strategic partnerships, and high-profile events while ensuring consistent messaging across institutional, regional, and national audiences. Working closely with HICCC leadership and faculty, and partnering with Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), Columbia University, and NewYork-Presbyterian (NYP), the Assistant Director develops compelling content, promotes research and clinical excellence, supports institutional initiatives, and strengthens the center’s reputation through strategic communications and engagement. The Assistant Director of Communications and Strategic Partnerships reports directly to the HICCC’s Associate Director for Administration. The position works in close collaboration with HICCC executive leadership, faculty, development, community engagement, research administration, and institutional communications partners across Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Columbia University, and NewYork-Presbyterian.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy aligned with HICCC’s vision, mission and guiding priorities.
• Lead the development and maintenance of the editorial and communications calendar.
• Oversee production of high-quality written content, including feature articles, patient stories, investigator profiles, and leadership messaging.
• Oversee content strategy and management for the HICCC website, Newsroom and blogs ensuring timely, accurate, and engaging information.
• Coordinate content for HICCC digital signage and digital boards.
• Ensure consistent branding and messaging across all communication platforms.
• Manage production of internal newsletters that communicate organizational initiatives, faculty accomplishments, member resources and institutional updates.
• Lead development of external newsletters and magazines for patients, donors, community partners, and external stakeholders.
• Maintain editorial standards, quality assurance, and publication schedules across all communications products.
• Identify opportunities for earned media coverage and collaborate with institutional