Chief Communications Officer

ASGCT is seeking an experienced Chief Communications Officer (CCO) to lead and execute comprehensive communications strategies that elevate its profile, amplify its mission, and engage key stakeholders.  The CCO will serve as a member of the executive leadership team, driving strategic communications initiatives to enhance ASGCT’s visibility, influence, and impact within the scientific and medical communities, biotech and pharma industry partners, policymakers, media outlets, and the public at large.  The CCO leads the communications, marketing, and media relations teams.

Responsibilities

Strategic Communications Leadership

• Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy aligned with ASGCT’s mission and vision, and meeting the demands of its new multi-faceted strategic plan.
• Provide strategic counsel to the CEO, Board of Directors, and other Society leaders on communications matters.
• Oversee all aspects of internal and external communications, ensuring consistency of messaging and brand identity across various platforms and media.

Media Relations and Public Affairs

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with media outlets, trade and scientific publications, journalists, and others to increase press coverage and strengthen ASGCT’s presence and relevance.
• Serve as a spokesperson, effectively communicating ASGCT’s positions, initiatives, and advancements to the media and the public.
• Support the President, CEO, and other members of ASGCT leadership who may serve as spokespersons.
• Monitor industry trends, news developments, and regulatory updates to guide proactive media engagement and rapid response strategies.

Marketing and Content Development

• Lead the creation and distribution of compelling content, including press releases, articles, blog posts, social media posts, and multimedia assets, to showcase ASGCT’s programs, events, advocacy, research, and thought leadership.
• Collaborate across teams to develop integrated marketing campaigns and promotional materials that drive member engagement, event attendance, revenue generation, and scientific journal author engagement.
• Oversee the management and optimization of ASGCT’s website and digital platforms to enhance user experience and drive traffic and engagement.

Member Communication

• Develop and implement strategies to effectively communicate with ASGCT’s diverse membership base, including researchers, clinicians, industry professionals, and students.
• Coordinate regular communication channels, such as newsletters, emails, and webinars, to provide members with updates on ASGCT activities, events, and opportunities.
• Solicit feedback from members to understand their needs, preferences, and concerns, and incorporate insights into communication strategies and initiatives, striving for continuous improvement.
• Cultivate a sense of community and engagement among ASGCT members by facilitating networking opportunities, promoting member achievements, and showcasing member contributions to the field.

Executive Leadership

• Lead a growing team of professional staff, providing leadership, managing workflow, mentoring for growth.
• Collaborate with all teams, including Policy & Advocacy, Education, Meetings & Events, Development, Scientific Affairs, and Journals to support marketing, communications, and media relations goals.
• Develop and monitor budgets as well as provide appropriate tracking and trending reports in areas of responsibility, including management of consultant relationships.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field.
• Ten or more years of progressively responsible experience in strategic communications, media relations, or public affairs, preferably within the healthcare, scientific, or nonprofit sectors.  Previous association management experience is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated track record of developing and executing successful communications strategies and campaigns that achieve measurable results and impact.
• Strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex scientific concepts into clear, compelling messages for diverse audiences.
• Experience managing media relations, crisis communications, and rapid response efforts in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven leadership abilities, with the capacity to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams and collaborate effectively with internal and external partners.
• Knowledge of gene and cell therapy, biotechnology, or related scientific disciplines is a plus.
• Proficiency in digital communications tools and platforms, including social media, web content management systems, and email marketing software.

Location

ASGCT is headquartered in suburban Milwaukee with a satellite office in Washington, DC.  Milwaukee candidates are strongly preferred, but DC-area candidates will be considered with consistent travel schedule to Milwaukee.  Relocation assistance to the Milwaukee area is available.