Senior Media and Public Relations Consultant

We are more than a health system. We are a belief system. We believe wellness and sickness are both part of a lifelong partnership, and that everyone could use an expert guide. We work hard, care deeply and reach further to help people uncover their own power to be healthy. We inspire hope. We learn, grow, and achieve more – in our careers and in our communities.

The senior consultant, media and public relations, is responsible for shaping the external reputation of Ohio Health through strategic media relations campaigns locally, regionally, nationally through traditional and emerging media outlets. This position manages ongoing, positive relationships with reporters, producers and editors to pitch and secure coverage in the media and works collaboratively with the Marketing Communications team to support overall marketing and communications efforts.

This position SUPPORTS Ohio Health Marion General, Hardin Memorial and Van Wert Hospitals.

The senior consultant also collaborates with peers in Marketing Communications and Community Relations to plan and execute integrated strategic public relations campaigns across multiple divisions including marketing, communications, media relations, social media and brand journalism and ensures collaboration with appropriate constituents across the system.

The senior consultant will establish and maintain relationships, gain the confidence of executives, physicians, clinical and administrative leaders and develop relationships with key stakeholders outside of the organization. This position requires strong professional presence, team building, and a results-oriented approach driven by integrity, flexibility and energy.

Public Relations Strategy 35%

Assists in the development and implementation of a process that informs, educates, and builds mutually beneficial relationships between Ohio Health and its stakeholders

Connect external communication and outreach activities including media relations, thought leadership, social media, blog, speaking opportunities and strategic partnerships to leverage and maximize reach and impact.

Work closely with community relations to support and promote Ohio Health’s contributions to the communities and populations it serves.

Media Relations Strategy 35%

Develop and coordinate media relations plans to increase the visibility and reputation of Ohio Health locally, regionally, and nationally. Develop and promote editorial positions to further Ohio Health initiatives.

Implement processes for identifying, developing, and pitching strategic and newsworthy stories in news media and social media channels.

Respond to opportunistic stories by maintaining strong relations with local media and strong relations with healthcare experts within the system.

Serve as internal partner with marketing, communications and Web teams to produce news content for digital and traditional media platforms.

Be familiar with and utilize the latest technology to develop and deliver audio and visual media through multiple channels including traditional media, web and mobile platforms.

Issues Management and Crisis Response 30%

Proactively anticipate issues and opportunities that affect Ohio Health and the communities it serves. Develop and maintain key messages about potentially controversial issues.

Direct media training and readiness of all individuals who speak with the media.

Manage crisis communications response as needed. Serve as spokesperson for Ohio Health when necessary.

Provide strategic counsel to senior management and physician leadership on issues involving the media.

Bachelor's Degree (Required)

• Degree in Journalism, Communications, or related field, six to eight years of experience.

• Demonstrated skills, knowledge and experience in creating and implementing strategic public relations campaigns, integrated media relations and communications plans, with a track record of successful results in a service industry, ideally healthcare, with multiple distribution channels.

• Superior planning, critical thinking and writing skills and the ability to lead and coordinate the activities of different teams by influence rather than reporting structure.

• Superb oral and written communication, interviewing, researching and presentation skills. Ability to take initiative to identify and act on opportunities. Ability to solve problems and achieve results. Ability and willingness to work under pressure, meet strict timelines and

• budgets, and to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

The successful candidate for this position will have demonstrated success in several areas, including:

• Working in matrixed organizations

• Developing and managing relationships with key leaders (e.g., C-suite executives, business/government leaders, community stakeholders)

• Experience in a healthcare environment and/or strong understanding of healthcare industry concepts, practices, and…