Director, Communications in Des Moines, Iowa at IOWA HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION

Position Summary

Leads the development and execution of communication strategies that translate IHA’s strategic priorities into clear, timely and purpose-focused messaging for members, stakeholders and internal audiences. Oversees newsletters, member communications, education communications, content development, media support and organizational storytelling to strengthen member value, advocacy awareness, brand consistency and public understanding of IHA’s work. Exercises decision-making authority in setting communication priorities, determining key messages, approving content standards, evaluating communication effectiveness and recommending improvements that increase reach, clarity, engagement and organizational impact. This role embodies IHA’s culture of innovation, collaboration, and service excellence.

Responsibilities

• Leads the development and execution of communication strategies that support IHA's purpose, strategic initiatives, advocacy initiatives, educational programs and member engagement goals; determines key audiences, messaging, timing and communication approaches and is accountable for improving communication effectiveness and stakeholder engagement
• Directs the planning, production and distribution of member-facing communications; establishes editorial priorities and monitors engagement metrics, audience feedback and communication outcomes to continuously improve effectiveness
• Serves as the primary communications partner for Education Services, developing communication plans and an editorial calendar that support awareness, registration, participation and attendee engagement for educational programs and events; evaluates results and recommends adjustments to improve performance and participant experience
• Leads content strategy and organizational storytelling efforts, determining content priorities and overseeing the development of written materials that strengthen member value, promote advocacy priorities, highlight organizational impact and reinforce IHA's brand and purpose
• Provides communications support for media relations activities; serves as a backup media contact as assigned and exercises judgment in coordinating responses and escalating sensitive issues
• Supports and enforces communication standards for quality, consistency, accessibility and brand alignment; reviews and approves assigned communications, determines appropriate messaging approaches and ensures deliverables meet organizational objectives and stakeholder needs
• Collaborates with internal stakeholders to develop integrated campaigns and communication initiatives; provides strategic messaging direction and content priorities to ensure alignment with organizational goals and audience needs
• Monitors communication performance, media coverage, audience engagement and stakeholder feedback, using data and insights to evaluate effectiveness, identify opportunities for improvement, allocate resources and recommend communication strategies that increase reach, relevance and organizational impact
• Models and promotes safe work practices, including proper workstation ergonomics, to support employee well-being and injury prevention
• Performs other related duties as assigned to support departmental and organizational goals

Internal Relationships

• Collaborates with the Senior Vice President, Marketing & Communications to align communication strategies, messaging and priorities with organizational goals
• Partners with the Marketing & Communications team and staff across IHA to support communication initiatives and organizational objectives

External Relationships

• Maintains relationships with member hospital communications and public relations professionals, external vendors, media representatives, business partners and other stakeholders to support organizational communications and engagement efforts

Knowledge and Skills

• Excellent writing, editing, proofreading and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messages for different audiences, platforms and purposes
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, CRM platforms, website content management tools and social media platforms
• Excellent interpersonal communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines and work independently or as part of a team
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management skills

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, marketing, communications, English or a related field preferred
• Experience in healthcare, hospital systems or association environments preferred
• Minimum 5 years of experience in strategic communications leadership needed
• An equivalent combination of education, training and experience may be considered

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds at times and on occasion, up to 50 pounds
• Ability to support organizational events, which may occasionally require extended periods of standing, light lifting or schedule flexibility

Equal Opportunity Employer

Qualified applicants will be considered despite race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability or any other protected class.