Director of Media & Communications

The Society for Neuroscience is the world’s largest organization of scientists and physicians devoted to understanding the brain and nervous system.The nonprofit organization, founded in 1969, now has nearly 40,000 members in more than 90 countries and 130 chapters worldwide.

The Director, Media & Communications leads and implements a cross-organizational effort to maintain and improve the effectiveness of SfN's communication strategies to the scientific field and, through media and public content, to the public. She/he develops and executes integrated, dynamic and message-driven strategies that build awareness of SfN and its value to key audiences; enhance understanding of the value of SfN's programs and services; and convey, through the media and public science content, the impact of neuroscience on society.

* Serve as liaison for the volunteer-led Public Education and Communications Committee (PECC), working in coordination with other colleagues. PECC is responsible for public communications strategies and training activity of the Society, as well as media relations. * Lead department budgeting and forecasting, working closely with SfN's finance department and senior staff to ensure programming is undertaken with attention to good financial stewardship. * Collaborate collegially and successfully with technology and digital strategy staff to develop and deploy multi-media strategies and content developed by multiple departments. * Partner effectively with Marketing & Sales department to build awareness of key SfN priorities utilizing social media channels, the web site and email to deliver strong messages. * Supervise, hire and retain approximately 10 talented Media & Communications staff through strategic leadership, clear communication of expectations, assignments and timelines. Provide strong leadership during times of change in the communications landscape, and support for professional development opportunities.

Education and Experience: * Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, PR, Marketing, or other field relevant to the Society's core activities * 8 to 10 years' experience working in media and/or communications within an association, PR agency, scientific or health-oriented agency/nonprofit, or similar environment. PREFFERED QUALIFICATIONS: * Exceptional writing, editing and verbal communication skills * Experience communicating about complex scientific or health issues a strong plus * Ability to digest and present complex materials, and to identify gaps and weaknesses in written materials that need to be remediated * Demonstrated experience and familiarity with evolving digital and online communication strategies, tools and approaches * A strong sense of urgency, with the ability to manage multiple demands under deadlines * Well organized with a strong work ethic * Previous experience promoting events * Ability to work across departments * Can quickly adapt to changing situations * Good judgment and listening skills, particularly in sensitive situations