Account Director, Public Relations (Business of Health)

Associate Directors on Highwire’s Health team lead integrated communications programs for organizations shaping the Business of Health. They bring strong experience across the healthcare business landscape — including managed care and benefits, care delivery and talent, value-based care and care management, hospitals and health systems, and mental health and wellness — helping clients translate complex healthcare business, operational, and industry topics into compelling narratives that resonate with business, healthcare, clinical, and consumer audiences.

Responsibilities

Lead Business of Health clients across sectors including managed care and benefits, care delivery and talent, value-based care and care management, hospitals and health systems, and mental health and wellness; Develop integrated communications strategies that build brand credibility, visibility, and measurable business impact; Provide strategic counsel on messaging, positioning, industry trends, competitive dynamics, and media engagement strategies; Translate complex healthcare business, operational, and industry topics into compelling, accessible narratives; Serve as a senior client contact, ensuring programs are delivered on time and exceed expectations; Identify opportunities to expand client programs and deepen partnerships; Partner with clients on executive visibility, thought leadership, and storytelling initiatives; Manage budgets, forecast hours, and ensure efficient resource allocation across teams; Build and maintain strong relationships with top-tier healthcare, business, benefits, managed care, hospital and health system, workforce, mental health, and technology media; Lead proactive media relations strategies that secure high-impact coverage; Guide teams in developing creative story angles; Oversee strategic pitching efforts; Leverage digital and social channels to amplify earned media and thought leadership; Stay informed on healthcare business trends, policy and regulatory developments; Manage 3–4 direct reports, providing mentorship, guidance, and performance feedback; Support new business initiatives; Contribute to agency marketing initiatives; Champion Highwire’s culture of inclusion, empowerment, and collaboration; Represent Highwire at healthcare business, policy, industry, and innovation events; Mentor account teams; Foster a collaborative and supportive environment; Lead by example

Requirements

7+ years of PR, communications, or marketing experience in an agency environment; Experience working with healthcare, health services, managed care, health plans, benefits, care delivery, hospitals and health systems, value-based care, mental health, or related organizations; Proven ability to develop and execute integrated communications programs that drive measurable results; Strong understanding of the healthcare business and media landscape; Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills; Experience managing multiple client accounts and cross-functional teams; Demonstrated ability to mentor and support junior team members; Strong project management and organizational skills; Strategic, proactive, and collaborative mindset; Passion for the Business of Health and the ability to communicate complex healthcare business, industry, and operational topics in clear, compelling ways

Benefits

Competitive salary with merit-based opportunities for growth; Flexible hybrid work model; Generous vacation policy, including extended summer and winter breaks; Early log-off on Fridays through Empower Hours program; 401(k) plan with employer matching; Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus FSA options; Paid parental leave benefits; Commuter benefits; Annual Growth Mindset stipend for books, events, or learning experiences; Monthly technology reimbursement; Wellness benefit program for mental and physical health; 501c3 donation matching program; Mentorship and ongoing professional development opportunities; Monthly recognition and team celebrations; Employee referral and new business referral bonuses; Quarterly Highwire events and team gatherings; Dog-friendly office environment; Supportive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace