VP for Strategic Marketing and External Affairs

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Position Summary:

The Vice President for Strategic Marketing and External Affairs is a visionary executive leader responsible for the strategic oversight of the health center's brand, marketing, communications, government relations, and community engagement. This position plays a critical role in shaping public perception, advancing the organization's mission, and driving strategic initiatives that enhance visibility, trust, and market position across all service areas.

Core Responsibilities:

Strategic Marketing & Brand Management

• Lead development and implementation of an enterprise-wide strategic marketing plan that supports business growth, patient acquisition, and service line promotion.
• Ensure consistent, patient-centered messaging and brand alignment across all platforms and outreach efforts.
• Utilize data analytics, market research, and competitive intelligence to inform marketing decisions and measure return on investment (ROI).

External Affairs & Government Relations

• Under the guidance of the CAO, direct the organization's external affairs strategy, including relationships with local, state, and federal government entities.
• Advocate for policies that support healthcare access, funding, and innovation in collaboration with legal and policy teams.
• Represent the organization in legislative and regulatory matters, coalitions, and community forums, as designated by Senior Leadership.

Public & Media Relations

• Along with the CEO and Senior Leadership, serve as a strategic voice for the health center in media and public communications, including during crises or high-visibility situations, as designated.
• Build and maintain strong media relationships to proactively shape narratives that align with the organization's values, services, and innovations.
• Oversee the development of press releases, executive communications, and talking points for leadership.

Community Engagement & Partnerships

• Design and oversee community outreach strategies that build trust and strengthen relationships with diverse populations and key stakeholders.
• Collaborate with clinical and operational leaders to support health equity, education, and wellness initiatives in underserved communities.
• Foster strategic partnerships with other health organizations, nonprofits, schools, and public agencies.

Digital Strategy & Patient Engagement

• Oversee digital marketing, social media, and online reputation management efforts to enhance patient engagement and brand reach.
• Collaborate with IT and patient experience teams to optimize digital front doors, patient portals, and telehealth communications.
• Ensure HIPAA-compliant messaging and marketing practices.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and mentor teams across marketing, communications, government affairs, and community relations functions.
• Develop budgets, key performance indicators, and professional development plans for department staff.
• Promote a culture of innovation, inclusion, transparency, and accountability.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Affairs, Writing or related field required.
• Master's degree in a related field preferred.

Experience:

• At least 10-15 years of progressive experience in health-related marketing, strategic communications, or public affairs.
• 5+ years in an executive leadership role within a healthcare organization or association.
• Experience with managing cross-functional teams and significant marketing budgets.

Skills & Competencies:

• Deep understanding of healthcare industry dynamics, patient engagement trends, and regulatory frameworks.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven success in media strategy, brand transformation, and stakeholder relations.
• Politically astute with strong negotiation and advocacy capabilities.

Preferred Attributes:

• Strong relationships with external healthcare stakeholders at the state and national level.
• Robust background in strategic marketing and communications to shape healthcare conversations on a regional and statewide scale.
• Experience positioning organization(s) as a thought leader and policy advocate in healthcare.
• Familiarity with value-based care models, population health, and social determinants of health.

Experience engaging with diverse and underserved communities.

Physical Requirements: Must be able to lift 30 pounds. Vision and hearing corrected to within normal limits is required. Must have manual dexterity to key in data; utilize computer, grab, grip, hold, tear, cut, sort, and reach.