Communications Specialist III

Responsibilities

• EMPLOYEE COMMUNICATIONS
• Build on UNOS’ recent efforts to use all available avenues to keep the workforce engaged and informed, delivering coordinated, timely and accessible employee communications.
• Partner with leadership, Human Resources and other departments to communicate organizational priorities related to the Strategic Plan, changes throughout the organization and employee news with clarity and consistency.
• Develop and coordinate content across employee communication channels and formats, including email, intranet content, leadership messages and employee meetings, as appropriate to audience needs.
• Create opportunities for two-way communication, gather employee questions and feedback, and use insights to improve communications and support engagement.
• MEDIA RELATIONS
• Develop and implement proactive media relations plans that support UNOS’ priorities and communicate its work clearly and accurately.
• Identify newsworthy stories, develop pitches and press materials, and build relationships with reporters and editors.
• Coordinate timely responses to media inquiries, working with leadership and subject matter experts to develop approved messaging, talking points and interview preparation materials.
• Monitor media coverage and relevant issues, share insights and recommend opportunities to strengthen outreach.

Requirements

• 5 years of relevant professional experience in communications, with experience in media relations, social media or employee communications and demonstrated ability to contribute across all three areas.
• Strong news judgment and ability to identify stories, develop media pitches and prepare clear press materials and talking points.
• Ability to build productive relationships with journalists, leaders, subject matter experts and internal partners.
• Ability to develop platform-appropriate social media content, manage a content calendar and support community engagement.
• Ability to translate complex information and organizational changes into clear, accessible employee communications.
• Excellent writing, editing, verbal and visual communication skills, with strong attention to accuracy and detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines, adapt as priorities change and set shared expectations with partners.
• Sound judgment and discretion when handling sensitive information, media inquiries and employee communications.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment.
• Ability to interpret media, social media and employee communication metrics and feedback to improve results.

Preferred

• Additional education/training/certification in project management or quality principles highly preferred.
• Experience developing integrated communications plans that connect media relations, social media and employee communications.