Communications Manager - Public Affairs

Job Summary:

Under the direction of the Director of Media, the Communications Manager will develop, implement and evaluate communications and public relations plans. The incumbent is responsible for activities for the Cook County Health & Hospitals System (CCHHS), including, but not limited to, internal and external collateral, talking points, speeches, news releases, web and social media content, events promotion, media relations, management and staff development.

Typical Duties:

• Works collaboratively with system public relations and marketing staff to develop and implement innovative programs and strategies that support organization's goals and objectives 
• Writes, edits and produces copy for a variety of purposes, including news releases, system collateral, and digital content 
• Collaborates with internal and external vendors, e.g., agencies, printers, and CCHHS staff to develop communications materials and strategies as necessary 
• Generates and coordinates stories and content for internal and external promotion 
• Acts as a resource for media representatives, providing accurate, timely and appropriate information 
• Manages the system’s social media activities and engages and builds audiences 
• Effectively counsels clinical and administrative leaders on communications matters and represents the communications department within the system and community 
• Keeps accurate documentation of activities and projects, including budgets for each activity 
• Works effectively and communicates clearly with staff, stakeholders and external contacts 
• Monitors productivity and quality standards as well as staff adherence to departmental and organizational guidelines 
• Performs other tasks as assigned in support of the department and health system as a whole 
• Travels to various locations within Cook County Health & Hospitals System

Reporting Relationships:

• Reports to the Director of Media, or their designee

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Journalism, or Marketing from an accredited institutionis required. (Must provide official transcripts at time of interview) 
• Minimum six (6) years of communications and marketing experience (including digital expertise) is required. 
• Minimum two (2) years managing communication programs in a professional services, non-for-profit and/or healthcare environmentis required. 
• Minimum two (2) years experience successfully managing and leading others is required. 
• Duties may involve local travel; possession of a valid driver’s license and an insured vehicleis required.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics:

• Working knowledge of personal computers, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Excellent oral and writing skills, with the ability to adapt communications to different audiences and management levels
• Demonstrated competence in project management with strong communications, design, conceptual, organizational skills
• Demonstrated ability to work with health system governing body, community organizations, the media, and various political entities
• Keeps abreast of emerging health care trends and legislative changes, as well as any other factors which may impact CCHHS’ positioning by participating in educational activities such as reading professional journals/articles and participating in seminars, webcasts and applicable committees
• Ability to exhibit innovation, creativity, and strong technical aptitude
• Ability to work cooperatively and efficiently with a variety of people throughout the Hospital system, including physicians, researchers, and administrators with respect for their expertise or field of interest
• Ability to provide leadership and effective supervision for staff
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Ability to represent CCHHS with tact and diplomacy