Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI) is a leading oncology research organization focused on advancing cancer treatments. The Senior Manager, Communications & Media Relations will shape and execute a comprehensive communications strategy, enhancing brand reputation and supporting organizational priorities through effective media relations and stakeholder engagement.
Responsibilities
- Lead and execute proactive media relations strategies to elevate organizational visibility and credibility
- Identify and secure media opportunities through strategic pitching, relationship-building, and storytelling
- Manage inbound media inquiries and coordinate interviews with physicians, executives, and subject matter experts
- Develop and place thought leadership content, including bylines, interviews, and expert commentary
- Draft and manage all organizational press releases, ensuring alignment with brand voice and strategic priorities
- Review and approve external press materials where the organization is referenced or quoted to ensure accuracy and positioning
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external partners on announcements, messaging, and media strategy
- Partner closely with physicians to identify and elevate research, clinical expertise, and patient impact stories
- Advise executive leadership on communications strategy, positioning, and visibility opportunities
- Prepare spokespeople for media engagement, including talking points and briefing materials
- Oversee media monitoring and reporting, including tracking coverage, sentiment, and share of voice
- Translate insights into actionable recommendations to refine PR strategy and improve impact
- Maintain awareness of industry trends, media landscape shifts, and competitive positioning
- Oversee key communications deliverables such as business development newsletters and targeted stakeholder updates
- Partner with digital, marketing, and communications teams to ensure alignment across campaigns and channels
- Support integrated communications planning across owned, earned, and paid efforts
Skills
- Bachelor's Degree required
- 7+ years of experience in communications, public relations, or media relations
- Proven experience developing and executing successful media strategies and securing coverage
- Strong writing and editing skills with experience drafting press releases and executive-level content
- Experience working with senior leadership and subject matter experts
- Highly collaborative with strong organizational and project management skills
- Ability to develop and execute integrated communications strategies that align with organizational priorities and elevate brand reputation
- Proven ability to identify compelling narratives, pitch media effectively, and secure impactful earned coverage across national and trade outlets
- Advanced writing and editing skills, with experience crafting press releases, executive messaging, thought leadership, and media materials with precision and clarity
- Confidence and credibility to advise and partner with senior leaders and physicians on communications strategy, messaging, and media engagement
- Strong ability to work across marketing, digital, operations, and business development teams to deliver cohesive, integrated communications
- Experience evaluating media coverage, sentiment, and performance metrics to inform strategy, optimize messaging, and demonstrate impact
- Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and stakeholders in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to build trust with journalists, internal stakeholders, and external partners to drive successful communications outcomes
- Strong decision-making skills with the ability to navigate ambiguity, manage sensitive issues, and respond quickly to evolving circumstances
- Experience in healthcare or life sciences preferred
- Knowledge of healthcare, clinical research, or oncology communications strongly preferred
- Ability to translate complex clinical and research concepts into clear, compelling, and patient-centered communications (strongly preferred in oncology or clinical research environments)
Benefits
- Total Rewards package includes comprehensive benefits to support physical, mental, and financial well-being.
- For more information regarding benefits through parent company, McKesson, see Employee Benefits.
Company Overview