Director, Public Relations and Internal Communications

About the Job

The Director of Public Relations and Internal Communications develops and executes MU Health Care’s public relations and internal communications strategy in support of the organization’s mission, vision, and goals. Responsible for overseeing and executing plans that inform and engage team members related to the organization’s strategic priorities, organizational changes and direction, important events, and operational issues and updates. The Director works collaboratively with the Marketing Department to position the system’s brand and reputation nationally and locally.

Shift: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Department: Strategic Planning
Salary Range: $126,796 – $206,960

About Us

MU Health Care is a growing academic health system in mid-Missouri comprised of multiple hospitals — including the region’s only Level 1 Trauma Center and Children’s Hospital — and over 50 specialty clinics located throughout the region.

As an MU Health Care employee, you will be part of an exceptional team committed to our mission of saving and improving lives and supporting our team members to achieve their personal and professional goals. Our core values of inclusion, respect, service, discovery, responsibility, and excellence foster a collaborative work environment where you can grow your career.

Learn more about MU Health Care.
Learn more about living in Columbia, MO.

Employee Benefits

• Health, vision, and dental insurance coverage starting day one
• Generous paid leave and paid time off, including 9 paid holidays
• Multiple retirement options, including 100% match up to 8% and full vesting in three years
• Tuition assistance for employees (75%) and immediate family members (50%)
• Discounts on cell phone plans, rental cars, gyms, hotels, and more

Essential Functions

Media Relations

• Develop and implement corporate public relations strategies that elevate the MU Health Care and School of Medicine brands as the premier and transformational academic health system for Missouri.
• Build and maintain relationships with media outlets, press members, and industry influencers to increase local, regional, and national media coverage for MU Health.
• Direct regional crisis communication efforts in coordination with the University of Missouri (UM) System and MU Joint Office of Strategic Communications.
• Lead the development of media training sessions for executive leadership in preparation for interviews with local and national news media.
• Oversee the development of public relations plans around major media events such as groundbreakings, grand openings, and announcements.

Corporate/Internal Communications

• Direct the development and implementation of a comprehensive and integrated internal communications plan aligned with the health system’s strategic priorities.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Human Resources to strengthen the employer brand strategy and inspire a highly engaged workforce.
• Ensure all internal communications maintain consistent messaging, tone of voice, and visual identity.
• Oversee the ongoing renewal of internal communication tools such as intranet websites, newsletters, and other channels.
• Lead communications for employee forums, appreciation events, and change management initiatives.

Executive Communications

• Direct executive leadership communications, including speeches, presentations, interviews, op-eds, and internal videos.
• Collaborate with executives to develop impactful thought leadership content such as articles, white papers, and blog posts.
• Provide training and guidance to refine executives’ messaging and storytelling capabilities.

Performance Measurement

• Establish metrics for PR and internal communications objectives, using data to make informed decisions.
• Monitor media coverage and internal communications to continuously refine strategies.
• Present performance results to stakeholders and oversee daily staffing schedules for coverage and continuity.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong ability to work within a complex organizational structure involving faculty, administration, and staff.
• Proven skill in building relationships with reporters, advocacy organizations, and editors.
• Excellent communication skills for influencing and engaging at all organizational levels.
• Proficiency in crafting and editing various forms of communication, including print, online, and video content.
• Familiarity with new media technologies and their applications in communication strategies.
• Strategic thinker with business analytics, project management, and change management expertise.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, public relations, communications, or a related field.
• Eight (8) years of experience in public relations and corporate communications.
• Three (3) years of leadership experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in marketing, public relations, communications, or a related field.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The University of Missouri System is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Equal opportunity is provided for all employees and applicants based on ability and competence without unlawful discrimination.

For more information, visit University of Missouri Equal Opportunity Policies.

Learn more here