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Associate Director, Media Relations

FHI 360 is a global development organization with a rigorous, evidence-based approach. Our professional staff includes experts in health, nutrition, education, economic development, civil society, environment and research. FHI 360 operates from 60 offices with 4,400 staff in the U.S. and around the world. We have worked with 1,400 partners in 125 countries, forging strong relationships with governments, diverse organizations, the private sector and communities. Our commitment to partnerships at every level and our multidisciplinary approach enable us to have a lasting impact on the individuals, communities and countries we serve–improving lives for millions. We seek qualified candidates for the position of Associate Director, Media Relations in Washington, DC or Research Triangle Park, NC.
Position Responsibilities:
Has primary responsibility for directing media relations and issues management. Working with FHI 360 leaders, develops strategies and manages media relations to position FHI 360 as a leading global health and development organization. Develops strategies, liaises with key staff throughout the organization to proactively address and manage issues that may pose risk to the organization. Develops and implements a strategy for proactively achieving media coverage for FHI 360.Works with FHI 360 Leadership to proactively manage the reputation of the organization through coordination and comprehensive media outreach. Keeps FHI 360 Leadership abreast of FHI 360-related news in the mass media, flagging any potential issues. Acts in capacity of communications professional to establish a global media relations and issues management infrastructure at FHI 360. Proactively identifies, develops, positions and directs relevant stories about FHI 360’s work to the appropriate media outlets to position FHI 360 as a leading global health and development organization. Proactively manages media relationships, including U.S. and international press, particularly in developing countries. Develops and maintains a network of relationships with media and represents FHI 360 with media. Establishes a benchmarking system that allows for continued improvement of FHI 360’s media relations operations. Creates media materials, including press releases, advisories, Q&As, and other materials as needed. Develops the capacity of staff worldwide in media relations and issues management. Regularly communicates with global staff in exchanging information and service, and routinely coordinates with other FHI 360 employees, consultants, and external individuals. Serves as account manager with internal clients on communications. Interacts with peers at partner organizations as communications liaison. Leads and participates in cross organizational teams. Requires extensive experience working with U.S. and international press, especially in developing countries. Requires excellent interpersonal skills which are needed in order to: interact effectively with the public, media, global health and development community; work with global staff in providing or exchanging information and obtaining or providing service. Strategic thinker with excellent written and verbal communications skills. Understands the political and ethical issues addressed by FHI 360, and is able to work with sensitivity, discretion, judgment, tact and poise. Evidence of highly evolved project management skills, meeting deadlines, and consistent and steady performance in a fast-paced and high profile environment. Excellent partnering skills across the organization; ability to work in a direct and matrixed reporting relationships. Capable of coaching and mentoring junior staff and interns. Working knowledge of relevant software, including Microsoft Office Suite. Health and/or science communications background and French language skills are a plus. Manage staff (full, part-time, and temporary), consultants, and contractors.Office working environment; ability to travel domestically and internationally.
Minimum Requirements:
Education/Experience: MS/MA/MPH and 5-7 years of relevant experience; or BS/BA with 7-9 years relevant work experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
FHI 360 has a competitive compensation package. Interested candidates may register online through FHI 360’s Career Center at www.fhi360.org/en/workingwithus/index.htm through the Employment section at www.fhi360.org. Please submit CV/resume and cover letter including salary requirements. Please specify source in your application.
AA/EOE/M/F/V/D