Manager, External Communications

External Communications Manager

Looking for a way to make an impact and help people? Join PacificSource and help our members access quality, affordable care! PacificSource is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to status as a protected veteran or a qualified individual with a disability, or other protected status, such as race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information or age. PacificSource values the diversity of our community, including those we hire and serve. We are committed to creating and fostering a work environment in which individual differences and diversity are appreciated, respected and responded to in ways that fully develop and utilize each person's talents and strengths.

The External Communications Manager is responsible for the strategic execution of external communications to elevate the organization's brand, reputation, and thought leadership. This role is responsible for media relations, public messaging, social media strategy, and crisis communication. The manager works in close partnership with the Internal Communications Manager and Marketing team to ensure message consistency, brand alignment, and coordinated outreach across all external channels. This role serves as a key voice of the organization to brokers, employers, providers, members, and the broader community.

Essential Responsibilities :

• Develop and execute robust communication plans that outline clear protocols that support business goals, enhance brand reputation, and promote thought leadership.
• Position the organization as an industry leader by developing and promoting valuable content, identifying and supporting leaders at key industry events, fostering relationships with influential stakeholders. Drive innovative communication strategies that highlight the organization's expertise and forward-thinking approach.
• Craft effective content for various external channels including press releases, social media, website, blog posts, newsletters, etc. ensuring consistency in message and tone for all relevant audiences including brokers, employers, providers, members, and the community.
• Oversee and monitor public perception, proactively address any issues or concerns, and reinforce positive brand messaging through strategic communication initiatives. Collaborate with internal teams to ensure continuity of approach.
• Monitor media coverage, social media conversations, and other relevant channels to stay ahead of potential issues and understand public sentiment.
• Oversee social media strategy and execution, ensuring alignment with brand voice and strategic priorities.
• Serve as a spokesperson or media liaison when appropriate, ensuring timely and accurate responses to inquiries.
• Collaborate with the Community Engagement Manager oversee and strengthen our community engagement approach. This includes building trust and strong relationships throughout the community and engaging employees in community initiatives.
• Develop and implement crisis communication plans to effectively manage any potential issues.
• Analyze data and feedback to inform communication strategies, identify emerging trends, and adjust tactics as needed.
• Partner with the Internal Communications Manager to ensure cohesive messaging across internal and external audiences. Coordinate with Marketing to align communication efforts.
• Coordinate business activities by maintaining collaborative partnerships with key departments.
• Actively participate in various strategic and internal committees in order to disseminate information within the organization and represent company philosophy.
• Maintain consistency in tone, voice, and messaging with the corporate brand identity to align with and reinforce the organization's brand and reputation.
• Responsible for hiring, staff development, coaching, performance reviews, corrective actions, and termination of employees. Provide feedback, including regular one-on-ones and performance evaluations, for direct reports.
• Develop annual department budgets. Monitor spending versus the planned budgeted throughout the year and take corrective action where needed.
• Actively participate as a key team member in Manager / Supervisor meetings.

Supporting Responsibilities :

Success Profile :

Work Experience : Minimum of 5 years of experience in a relevant communications or public relations role. Supervisory experience preferred.

Education, Certificates, Licenses : Bachelor's degree required. Candidates with an Associate's degree and 2 years of relevant experience, or a high school diploma and 4 years of relevant experience, in addition to the required minimum years of Work Experience will also be considered. Preferred area of focus : Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.

Knowledge : Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with expertise in storytelling. Proficiency in external and internal communications and social media strategy. Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously. Strong analytical skills and the ability to use data to inform communications strategies. Demonstrated ability to develop and implement successful communications strategies. Strong media relations skills and a network of media contacts.

Competencies : Building Trust

Building a Successful Team

Aligning Performance for Success

Building Partnerships

Customer Focus

Continuous Improvement

Decision Making

Facilitating Change

Leveraging Diversity

Driving for Results

Environment : Work inside in a general office setting with ergonomically configured equipment. Travel is required approximately 10% of the time.

Skills : Accountable leadership, Collaboration, Data-driven & Analytical, Delegation, Effective communication, Listening (active), Situational Leadership, Strategic Thinking

Our Values :

Physical Requirements : Stoop and bend. Sit and / or stand for extended periods of time while performing core job functions. Repetitive motions to include typing, sorting and filing. Light lifting and carrying of files and business materials. Ability to read and comprehend both written and spoken English. Communicate clearly and effectively.

Disclaimer : This job description indicates the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this position and is subject to change. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this position. Employment remains AT-WILL at all times.