Communications Manager - Science Media Relations

About the role

Since our founding in 1924, we've cut cardiovascular disease deaths in half, but there is still so much more to do. To overcome today’s biggest health challenges and accelerate this progress, we need passionate individuals like you. This is a remote and flexible location position.

The American Heart Association offers many resources to help you maintain work-life harmonization through your changing needs and life situations. To help you be successful, you will have access to Heart U, our award-winning corporate university, as well as additional training and support.

Responsibilities

• Implement multi-year strategic communication plans supporting and promoting scientific manuscripts published in the American Heart Association’s 14 peer-reviewed scientific and medical journals and abstracts presented at the Association’s 7 annual scientific meetings to the media and the public.
• Develop appropriate resources and translate the science for the media and the public to reinforce the Association’s role as a leading science voice and impact goals.
• Secure media coverage, establish and cultivate relationships with journalists, and support leaders and research authors presenting at scientific meetings or publishing in journals.
• Review manuscripts accepted for publication in scientific journals and abstracts accepted for presentation at scientific meetings.
• Develop news releases, media pitches, and multi-media assets to promote scientific research featured in abstracts and manuscripts.
• Collaborate with team members to review and select abstracts to promote, provide peer edits for colleagues’ news releases, and develop talking points and key messages for research authors and experts.
• Lead development of news kits for scientific meetings, including review and selection of abstracts, detailed news releases with expert quotes, and related materials such as video interviews, talking points, FAQs, and infographics.
• Work with Senior Director and Vice President to implement and collaborate on multi-year strategic communication plans across traditional and social media, as well as Association-owned channels.
• Develop media opportunities and relationships to promote the Association’s science-related work.
• Monitor traditional and social media to ensure appropriate responses to breaking news related to heart and brain health, and protect the Association’s reputation and integrity.
• Lead or support other Communications initiatives as applicable.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Communications or equivalent experience.
• Three (3) years of excellent writing and editing skills and solid knowledge of AP Style (5 years preferred).
• Three (3) years of experience managing the submission of press, promotional, or related content.
• At least three (3) years of proficient computer skills, including all Microsoft Office programs, especially Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• At least two (2) years of project management experience, including managing multiple projects concurrently (preferred).
• At least two (2) years of demonstrated ability to work under tight deadlines while facing competing demands and priorities for multiple projects (preferred).

Preferred Qualifications

• Five (5) years of relevant experience.
• Proven ability to review and translate scientific abstracts and manuscripts, develop newsworthy ideas, pitch stories to media outlets, manage media interviews, and produce news conferences.
• Experience crafting talking points, key messages, and fostering collaborative relationships with reporters.
• Portfolio demonstrating successful expertise in developing and implementing multi-faceted media strategies that generate visibility for scientific publications, journals, and scientific meetings.

Pay

The expected pay range is $75,000 - $85,000. Pay is commensurate with experience; geographic differentials may apply.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary with regular market value reviews.
• Performance and recognition programs, including annual salary planning and incentive programs.
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Robust retirement program with employer match and automatic contribution.
• Employee assistance program, wellness program, and telemedicine services.
• Professional development opportunities through Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), mentoring programs, and Heart U, the Association’s online university with over 100,000 resources.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) starting at a minimum of 16 days per year for new employees, increasing with seniority, plus 12 paid holidays annually.
• Tuition assistance for career development related to current or potential future positions.