Senior Communications Specialist

The Henry Ford Health + MSU Senior Communications Specialist develops creative public relations, communications, and storytelling strategies that support Henry Ford + MSU operations, with a focus on research innovation, clinical advancement, and mission-driven community narratives.

Role Overview

This position provides communications leadership and helps shape comprehensive supporting communication plans across strategic priorities. The role coordinates closely with communications, marketing, and team leaders, and reports to the Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications.

Responsibilities

• Deliver creative and innovative public relations, communications, and storytelling strategies for Henry Ford + MSU operations.
• Develop and implement comprehensive communication plans aligned to strategic priority areas, including research innovation and clinical advancements, as well as mission and community-based storytelling.
• Build strong, trusted relationships while guiding internal communications.
• Lead and advance strategic communications efforts across all audiences.
• Partner with communications, marketing, and other team members and leaders to coordinate and align messaging and efforts.

Requirements

• Minimum bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from a four-year college or university in Public Relations, Communications, or a related field.
• At least five (5) years of experience in public relations, communications, or a related field, with increasing responsibility.
• Experience in a medical research or academic medical center environment is preferred.
• Exceptional oral, written, and digital communication skills.
• Excellent people skills and the ability to work effectively with a broad cross-section of leaders.
• Strong critical thinking skills to distill and communicate complex medical and other concepts to broad audiences.
• A passion for storytelling, natural curiosity, and a collaborative client partner orientation.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, accounts, and complex issues with strategic focus, innovation, creativity, and attention to detail and accuracy.
• Knowledge of academic research enterprise concepts, including basic science research, clinical trials, grant funding, and NCI/NCI-designated programs.

Work Setting

This position can be performed in a hybrid work setting with a blended schedule of in-office and remote work, based on supervisor direction.

Work Location and Travel

The primary office location is Henry Ford Health, Detroit. The role requires occasional travel to MSU, East Lansing. On days worked at MSU, East Lansing will be considered the work location, and mileage is not reimbursable.

Reports To

The Senior Communications Specialist reports to the Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications.