Director of Internal Communications

Job Description

The Director of Internal Communications leads UC Health's internal communications strategy to inform, engage, and unite employees across the academic health enterprise. Reporting to the VP of Marketing & Communications and serving on the MarCom Leadership Team, this leader oversees the internal communications team and partners with senior and executive leaders to deliver clear, coordinated, and compelling communications that build connection, alignment, and trust.

This role develops and executes a systemwide communications strategy that strengthens culture, deepens engagement, and brings the UC Health brand to life from the inside out while advancing the long-term strategic plan. The Director will elevate internal communications into a high-impact, data-driven function focused on strategic planning, storytelling excellence, and channel optimization to ensure the right messages reach the right audiences in the right way. Through thoughtful leadership and collaboration, this role will enhance enterprise coordination and foster a culture of creativity, accountability, and continuous growth.

Responsibilities

Lead Systemwide Communications Strategy

• Develop and execute an enterprise-wide internal communications strategy aligned with UC Health's long-term strategic plan.
• Partner with senior and executive leaders to deliver clear, consistent, and compelling communications that inform, engage, and unite employees.
• Establish an annual system communications plan and integrated calendar that aligns messaging across sites, functions, and the UC academic health system.
• Leverage insights, analytics, and feedback to continuously measure and improve communication reach, relevance, and impact.

Advance Communications Transformation and Channel Strategy

• Lead the transformation of internal communications into a high-performing, data-driven, and strategically aligned function.
• Design and optimize a modern, multi-channel ecosystem-including intranet, newsletters, leader messaging, digital platforms, and emerging tools-to enhance connection and access.
• Identify and implement new communication technologies and practices that improve efficiency, transparency, and engagement.
• Build organizational communication capability through training, toolkits, and resources that strengthen leader enablement, alignment, and message discipline.

Strengthen Strategic Partnership and Enterprise Alignment

• Serve as a trusted advisor to senior and executive leaders, supporting system priorities, strategic initiatives, and organizational change.
• Partner with HR, Operations, IS&T and UC College of Medicine partners to align messaging and engagement strategies that enhance the employee experience.
• Coordinate closely with the UC Health Foundation and the University of Cincinnati to advance shared storytelling and reputation goals.
• Partner with content manager to ensure all communications reinforce UC Health's values, purpose, and strategic direction.

Elevate Leadership and Clinician Communications

• Provide strategic counsel and message development for the President & CEO and senior leaders, ensuring clarity, authenticity, and alignment.
• Develop meeting approach and oversee leadership forums, including Senior Leader Meetings and systemwide town halls, to strengthen transparency and connection.
• Partner with clinical and operational leaders to design targeted communication and engagement strategies for physicians, nurses, and clinicians that foster collaboration and pride.
• Create structured opportunities for feedback and dialogue across all levels of the organization.

Lead Team Excellence, Storytelling, and Impact Measurement

• Lead, develop, and mentor the internal communications team to drive creativity, collaboration, and continuous growth.
• Elevate communications capability systemwide by developing tools, frameworks, and training that empower leaders and communicators to engage effectively.
• Champion data-driven storytelling that connects employees to UC Health's mission, vision, and strategic priorities while owning core internal content development and partnering closely with the Integrated Content Manager and Creative Team to ensure stories are coordinated, consistent, and impactful across all internal and external channels.
• Define and track success metrics to measure communication effectiveness and cultural impact.
• Foster a culture of inclusion, innovation, and accountability within the communications function and across the enterprise.

Qualifications

Required Skills and Knowledge:

• 6-10 years of relevant experience with at least 3 years of progressive management experience
• Experience and understanding of current communications techniques, including AP style
• Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, database skills, graphic presentation
• Skilled in project management methodologies, standards, and tools
• Excellent team, interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to build and maintain productive working relationships with internal stakeholders, including executives
• Ability to work under pressure in a dynamic environment

Work Environment:

While the position will work in a normal office environment, travel to the various hospitals and work locations will be necessary. Work hours will vary from time to time depending upon the needs of the business. Regular and predictable on-site attendance is required for this position.

About Us

At UC Health, we're proud to have the best and brightest teams and clinicians collaborating toward our common purpose: to advance healing and reduce suffering.

As the region's adult academic health system, we strive for innovation and provide work-class care for not only our community, but patients from all over the world. Join our team and you'll be able to develop your skills, grow your career , build relationships with your peers and patients, and help us be a source of hope for our friends and neighbors.

UC Health is committed to providing an inclusive, equitable and diverse place of employment.