Strategic Communications Specialist

TITLE: Strategic Communications Specialist REPORTING RELATIONSHIP: Vice President, Strategic Communications BASIC FUNCTIONS: Support Vice President, Strategic Communications in the development and implementation of comprehensive internal and external communications for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) initiatives, including member, media, and crisis communication plans and promoting and supporting public policy and advocacy positions. Collaborate with relevant staff to align overall AAP messaging. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Assist with developing and implementing proactive and reactive crisis communication plans to effectively respond to various events or circumstances that may affect the organization. Assist in crisis response efforts, including triaging and responding to inquiries, drafting statements, coordinating internal and external messaging, and ensuring timely and accurate information dissemination. Utilize tools and data analytics to track and assess impact of efforts to make recommendations for any needed adjustments. Collaborate with Advocacy, Public Affairs, and other relevant staff on the development of compelling communications to ensure consistent, informative, and inspiring messaging promote AAP initiatives and positions to diverse audiences. Assist the VP, Strategic Communications in preparing outreach and stewardship with current and potential funders to secure support for AAP initiatives, in collaboration with Development staff. Assist with drafting funding proposals and reports. Employ appropriate communication strategies and creative writing to draft and edit messages and materials to support AAP communications initiatives, such as media messages and interview prep, member communications, internal/staff communications, persuasive essays, and external-facing materials. Build relationships with internal staff across different work streams and collaborate on the development of innovative approaches that improve communication and the advancement of strategic priorities. Collaborate with AAP staff and member leaders to ensure diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences are reflected in AAP strategic communications activities. Perform all other duties as assigned. EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or related discipline or an equivalent combination of relevant education and work experience required. EXPERIENCE: At least three years' related experience in communications required, including writing for various audiences. Experience in the healthcare sector preferred. ESSENTIAL SKILLS: Must be a creative thinker and strong writer with the ability to develop content for diverse audiences, including digital platforms. Must be able to manage multiple priorities simultaneously, work both independently and as part of a team, exercise good judgment, collaborate with various internal and external constituents, respond quickly to time-sensitive matters, take initiative, and promote and maintain a positive and cooperative team-oriented work environment, with a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Excellent verbal/written communication, interpersonal, diplomacy, project management, organization, analytical, and critical thinking skills required. Strong technical acumen essential with proficiency in MS Office, knowledge of social media platforms, and the ability to learn and apply new technologies; experience with virtual meeting platforms (eg, WebEx, Teams) and document collaboration platforms (eg, SharePoint) preferred. Some travel and evening/work required. COMPENSATION: A reasonable estimate of the current base pay range for this position is $79,866.53 - $84,303.70. Compensation decisions take into account a wide range of factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, skills, certifications, geographic location, business needs, and organizational policies. In addition to those factors, we believe in the importance of pay equity and consider internal equity of our current team members as a part of any final offer. Hiring at the maximum of the range would not be typical. We also offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes healthcare and retirement savings plans. WORK ENVIRONMENT: Hybrid work environment of 40% of work time in the office per month. APPLICATION PROCESS: To learn more about the organization, see a full job description, and/or apply for the position, please visit https://www.aap.org/employment . The AAP offers an excellent work environment, competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package. As a reaffirmation to our employee-focused culture, since 2005 the AAP has been named one of the 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work for in the Chicagoland area. Additionally, we are an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Females, Individuals with Disabilities, and Veterans that values the strength diversity brings to our workplace. REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION: Individuals with a disability in need of a reasonable accommodation regarding the job application process may call 630-626-6297. Please note, only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will receive a response. J-18808-Ljbffr