Director, External Communications

About the Role

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The Director

AGING? Of External Communications at Dana‑Farber Cancer Institute plays a crucial role in enhancing the visibility and reputation of the Institute, boosting awareness and support for its mission to conquer cancer. Reporting to the Associate Deputy Chief of Communications, this position involves leading a team to execute proactive media outreach, responding to inquiries, and participating in rapid response and crisis mitigation.

The director collaborates with both traditional and digital media platforms, requiring expertise in modern communication channels. Additionally, the role demands strong project, account management,)]); mark and leadership skills and involves significant interaction with senior clinical, research, and administrative personnel. This role supports the Communications and Marketing Department's goal of positioning Dana‑Farber as the premier cancer provider in the region and globally, as well as the partner and employer of choice.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana‑Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life‑changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS, and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environmentprijzen where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high‑risk and underserved populations.

We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School‑affiliated hospitals.

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with media professionals, including reporters, editors, and producers, both locally and nationally. Understand media landscapes and effectively engage with media personnel to enhance the Institute’s visibility and reputation.
• Proactively pitch stories and lead the development of annual media relations planning and editorial calendars, ensuring alignment with Dana‑Farber’s strategic goals. This includes creating executive briefing documents and ensuring consistency with the Institute’s strategic objectives to maximize media exposure.
• Actively participate in crisis communications and issues‑management efforts, preparing for and responding to potential risks and ensuring consistent, effective messaging during challenging situations.
• Train and prepare faculty and staff to communicate effectively with the media and represent the Institute, developing communication skills and strategies for accurate, impactful representation of the Institute’s mission and achievements.
• Knowledge of healthcare and biomedical research, with the ability to comprehend complex scientific information and translate it into accessible language for diverse audiences.
• Lead the creation and dissemination of communications assets for scientific and patient‑care activities. Collaborate with clinicians and researchers to produce compelling materials that highlight the Institute’s work and initiatives.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including affiliated institutions and industry partners, to enhance the Institute’s visibility and communication efforts. Build networks and partnerships that support institutional goals and initiatives.
• Hire and develop team members to achieve organizational goals. Define and communicate clear expectations, provide constructive feedback, evaluate performance, oversee compliance with policies, monitor work efficiency and quality, mentor and coach staff, facilitate training opportunities, support career growth, and work with senior management and Human Resources to address performance issues. Promote a healthy and productive work environment within the team and across the Institute.

• Media Relations pillar, comprising two Associate Directors, a Manager and a Senior Specialist, with anticipation of additional staff in the future.