Responsibilities

• Provide strategic counsel to biotech, life sciences, nonprofit and philanthropic clients on communications positioning, media strategy, narrative development, and crisis communications
• Cultivate and expand relationships with key journalists covering advances in biotech—including mainstream and non-traditional outlets and influencers (e.g. podcasts, Substack authors, etc.)
• Advise on proactive and reactive media, messaging, and crisis mitigation strategies
• Shape proactive media strategies and contribute ‘outside the box’ opportunities that elevate client narratives
• Pitch stories proactively; secure high value earned media placements
• Translate complex scientific and technical topics into compelling narratives that resonate with policymakers, media, and the public
• Develop and execute integrated communications strategies
• Project manage complex initiatives with tight deadlines and multiple stakeholders
• Manage to client budgets efficiently and effectively
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture
• Lead and mentor account teams; provide coaching and professional development for junior staff
• Help shape account team structure and workflows to support high-quality client delivery

Requirements

• 8+ years in life sciences or biotech communications (agency, in-house, or consulting)
• Strong media relationships in scientific, trade, and/or mainstream and non-traditional media (demonstrable track record of placements)
• Background working with foundations, nonprofits, research institutions, and/or mission-driven organizations
• Understanding of the players, issues and trends in biotech and emerging technologies
• Excellent written and oral communications skills (all formats: pitches, op-eds, talking points, presentations)
• Ability to translate complex science into compelling narratives for diverse audiences
• Client-facing experience—comfortable consulting with C-suite executives
• Experience managing multiple client accounts
• Ability to work West Coast hours and be available for client needs after hours as needed
• Bachelor\'s degree in communications, journalism, life sciences, or related field

Preferred

• Scientific background and/or science writing experience — in biology, chemistry, medicine, or related field
• Integrated agency experience — demonstrated success coordinating across multiple teams (creative, digital, production, paid media, etc.)
• Experience supporting new business pitches and/or expanding work within existing client relationships