New

Media Relations Director

Blue Cross Blue Shield Association
vision insurance, 401(k)
United States, D.C., Washington
Jun 28, 2025
The hiring range for this role is: $140,560.00 - $216,595.00 This is the lowest to highest salary we, in good faith, believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the hiring range and this hiring range may also be modified in the future. A candidate's position within the hiring range may be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, relevant experience, skills, seniority, performance, shift, travel requirements, and business or organizational needs.This job is also eligible for annual bonus incentive pay. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off, 11 holidays, medical/dental/vision insurance, generous 401(k) matching, lifestyle spending account and many other benefits to eligible employees. Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission, or any other form of compensation that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Company's sole discretion, consistent with the law. This role is responsible for developing the media relations strategy for the Association and leading its execution. This position will work closely with the entire communications team and across business functions to develop and implement media relations strategies that advance the Association's mission, vision, and values and position BCBSA as a leader in health care. This media strategist and communicator will manage proactive and reactive media relations; partners on public affairs campaigns; and regularly interacts on the behalf of the Association with a range of critical influencers and stakeholders. The position must understand and navigate the rapidly changing policy and media environment surrounding health care reform and other industry issues and be able to translate complex health care business and policy issues and regulatory information into simple and compelling messages. Essential Functions Develop an earned media relations strategy that ensures BCBSA shapes the Beltway narrative on strategic priorities and ensures BCBSA leaders are sought-out experts Lead, manage and coach members of the media relations team, ensuring they advance the media relations strategy, stay engaged, and produce high quality products. Work with senior leadership on issues management and crisis communications strategy, infrastructure, and capabilities. Establish and grow relationships with key journalists and news organization leaders. Partners with different departments to position BCBSA and the Blues on policy and regulatory issues - including work with outside Coalitions. Oversee the development of media materials including talking points, key messages, Media briefing documents, press releases, op-eds, and copy for digital/social platforms. Work with and manage outside agencies to successfully position BCBSA executives in the media. Performs other duties as assigned Complies with all policies and standards To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Educational: Preferred - Bachelor's Degree or equivalent work experience Experience: Required - 10+ Years communication experience Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Advanced ability to counsel senior leadership Advanced ability to creatively and proactively advance business and advocacy goals Advanced ability to multi-task and thrive in challenging situations that require creativity, drive and commitment Advanced ability to translate technical and complex information Advanced ability to work well under pressure, with demonstrated success at working under deadlines with tight time frames Advanced experience managing people and teams Advanced knowledge of health care industry issues and a clear understanding of the health care policy environment at the federal and state levels Advanced oral and written skills Advanced problem-solving skills Advanced proofreading skills and use of AP Style with an acute eye for detail and quality Advanced relationship building skills and ability to work in a collaborative environment Experience managing outside agencies Experience with data-driven approach to communications Experience with issues management and/or crisis communications Preferred experience working in a large, matrixed organization Previous public relations agency, trade association, political campaign, government or journalism experience Project management skills Deep understanding of newsroom culture and operations and how story pitches turn into positive coverage Existing relationships with health care and/or policy reporters Physical Demands/Working Environment The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions Physical Demands: Sedentary work (exerting up to 10 lbs. of force occasionally and involving sitting most of the time with occasional standing and walking) Working Environment: Work is generally performed in an office or remote setting Travel Requirements:: Travel requirements for this position may vary based on project needs and client locations. Employees should be prepared for an estimated travel of up to 10%.