The Senior Media Relations Specialist is responsible for coordinating, developing and implementing proactive and reactive media relations efforts to promote the Institute as a top national comprehensive cancer center and is an integral part of the External Communications team.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Responding in a time-sensitive manner to reporters' requests, e.g., expert opinion on published studies, medical information, times and locations of Dana-Farber/Jimmy Fund events, etc.
• Researching, writing and distributing news releases to publicize journal-based clinical and basic science studies, arranging and overseeing interviews and photo shoots, and contacting reporters and interview subjects to determine if there are any follow-up issues. 
• Developing and managing strong relationships with key local and national reporters, editors, producers and photographers.
• Developing and implementing strategies to highlight new programs and services, e.g., Mammography Van, HealthCare Dimensions Hospice, etc.
• Assisting in the implementation and oversight of public information campaigns in conjunction with public and non-profit agencies and organizations.
• Assisting in the development of communication strategies concerning internal or external crises and issues.
• Collaborate with departmental team members and/or participate in department client teams to ensure efficient flow of information and project work. This includes maintaining ongoing communication with the client and/or department through the use of standardized reporting and project status tools to ensure timely and effective delivery of quality projects and deliverables.

At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we work every day to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every patient, family, and staff member feels they belong.  As relentless as we are in our mission to reduce the burden of cancer for all, we are equally committed to diversifying our faculty and staff.  Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and diverse professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.

MINIMUM JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree required
• 5 years of media experience required, of which a significant portion is in health care communications.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Computer-literate with significant experience with word processing, database management and Internet-related software programs.
• Strong writing skills and the ability to write copy, e.g., press releases, backgrounders, etc., that explains complex concepts in a clear, concise manner and is in accordance with Associated Press style. 
• A proven ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and to review and rearrange priorities on short notice.
• Strong editorial and proofreading skills.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is an equal opportunity employer and affirms the right of every qualified applicant to receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other groups as protected by law.

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