Executive Director Strategic Comms and Public Relations

OverviewThe Executive Director of Strategic Communications and Public Relations is a transformational enterprise leadership role responsible for advancing UnityPoint Health's communications operations, executive communications, public relations, and organizational change strategy across a large, matrixed health system.This role places significant emphasis on maturing internal communications channels, editorial strategy, executive communications, message architecture, and communications governance across diverse stakeholder groups. The Executive Director will modernize how communications are planned, prioritized, developed, reviewed, and measured by leveraging generative AI, automation, and technology-forward process improvements to improve operational efficiency, executive messaging, content quality, and data-driven communications strategy.Partnering closely with executive leadership, Market Presidents, and leaders across the organization, this individual will serve as a trusted advisor while driving enterprise alignment, strengthening organizational change readiness, and creating a more connected communications ecosystem. Success in this role requires an executive leader who enjoys building structure in a complex environment, balancing strategic vision with hands-on execution, and shaping the future of communications at UnityPoint Health.Why UnityPoint Health?At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members. Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in.  Here are just a few:     Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program. Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members. Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family. With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.   And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience. Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.ResponsibilitiesAdvance and modernize communications operations through AI, automation, workflow optimization, and technology-enabled process improvements that improve efficiency, governance, and communication effectiveness.Lead the evolution of UnityPoint Health's internal communications ecosystem, including channel strategy, editorial governance, executive communications, message architecture, and communication standards.Partner with executive leadership to shape executive messaging, organizational storytelling, and enterprise communications strategy.Lead organizational change communications that improve stakeholder readiness, workforce engagement, and enterprise transformation.Establish enterprise governance, intake processes, editorial review, prioritization frameworks, and communication quality standards across the organization.Lead public relations, media relations, crisis communications, and issues management strategies that strengthen organizational reputation and organizational readiness.Utilize communications analytics, audience insights, and performance metrics to continuously improve communications effectiveness and operational performance.Foster collaboration across System and Market communications teams to build greater alignment and "systemness" across the organization.Develop and mentor communications leaders while championing innovation, continuous improvement, and adoption of emerging communications technologies.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field required; Master's degree preferred.Seven or more years of progressive leadership experience in enterprise communications, executive communications, internal communications, public relations, or related disciplines within a large, complex organization.Demonstrated experience modernizing communications operations through AI, automation, workflow design, communications governance, or digital transformation initiatives.Proven success leading executive communications, organizational change communications, and enterprise messaging strategies for senior leaders.Experience establishing communications governance, editorial standards, prioritization processes, and scalable communications operations.Demonstrated ability to influence executive stakeholders and lead cross-functional initiatives in a highly matrixed environment.Exceptional writing, editing, storytelling, and executive communications skills with meticulous attention to detail.Strong analytical mindset with experience using communications metrics, audience insights, and performance data to improve strategy and effectiveness.Healthcare experience preferred but not required.Job SummaryRequisition ID: 2026-184475Category: ManagementLocation: US-IA-West Des MoinesAddress: 1776 West Lakes PkwyAffiliate: 9010 System Services AdministrationCity: West Des MoinesDepartment: Creative ServicesState: IAFTE: 1.0FLSA: ExemptScheduled Hours/Shift: Monday - Friday, DaysWork Type (Portal Searching): Full Time Benefits