We are seeking a strategic and experienced communications professional to lead the development and execution of crisis communication plans that safeguard and strengthen the institution’s reputation during critical incidents, emerging concerns, or high-stakes issues.
This role requires close collaboration with leaders across Strategic Communication, Education and Outreach (SCEO), the Business Continuity team, institutional leadership, and Incident Command teams to ensure timely, transparent, and effective communication during crises.

Job Responsibilities:

• Engage stakeholders and program users in innovative and effective ways to continuously improve the internal communication experience.
• Create interest and enthusiasm around ongoing programs, projects and initiatives.
• Work with external communication teams to support strategic program campaigns.
• Develop and deliver crisis communication training for leadership, Incident Command Teams, and other stakeholders.
• Conduct simulations and tabletop exercises to test and refine crisis communication protocols.
• Provide ongoing education on best practices for crisis management and communication.
• Conduct post-crisis debriefs to evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies and identify areas for improvement.
• Monitor media, social media, and other communication channels for emerging issues or potential crises.
• Provide regular updates and reports to leadership on crisis communication activities and outcomes.
• Update and refine crisis communication plans based on lessons learned and emerging trends.
• Ensure adherence to St. Jude's brand standards and timeliness of content, meeting production schedules and deadlines.
• Provide guidance, assistance, and mentoring support to less experienced colleagues on complex matters related to internal communications strategy, creation, quality, accuracy etc.
• Perform other duties as assigned to meet the goals and objectives of the department and institution.
• Maintain regular and predictable attendance.

Minimum Education and/or Training:

• Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, English or related field required.
• Master's degree OR PhD preferred.

Minimum Experience:

• 8+ years of relevant experience in communications, public relations, journalism, English, or related field.
• Demonstrated experience in business communications, journalism, PR, and communications in life sciences or healthcare environment.
• Proficiency in software programs such as Captivate, Photoshop, Illustrator, and other tools used to create communication materials.
• Proven ability to navigate sensitive or high-stakes situations with discretion, sound judgment, and professionalism highly required.
• Proven performance in earlier role.
• Extensive crisis communications experience with a strong preference for candidates with a background in healthcare.
• Prior experience in developing and executing crisis communication strategies in complex, high-pressure environments strongly desired
• Proven ability to build and maintain effective relationships with both internal and external stakeholders is essential.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex information into clear, concise messaging

Certification:

• Certified Crisis Management Professional (CCMP), S-CME Certification or Certification in Emergency Crisis Response preferred.

Compensation

In recognition of certain U.S. state and municipal pay transparency laws, St. Jude is including a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This is an estimate offered in good faith and a specific salary offer takes into account factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the salary range and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current salary range is $86,320 - $154,960 per year for the role of Principal, Crisis Communication.

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St. Jude Children's Research Hospital does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. Please do not call or email. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee or other representative at St. Jude via email, the internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place and approved by HR will result in no fee being paid in the event the candidate is hired by St. Jude.