At the American Cancer Society, we're working to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Our employees and 1.3 million volunteers are raising the bar every single day. We are a culture comprised of diverse backgrounds and experience, to better serve our communities. 

The people who work at the American Cancer Society focus their diverse talents on our lifesaving mission. It is a calling. And the people who answer it are fulfilled.

The Strategic Director, External Communications is a senior-level communicator responsible for developing and executing a bold, proactive media strategy that elevates the American Cancer Society’s work with corporate alliances, amplifies the organization’s mission, and drives national visibility. This role leads high-impact storytelling that strengthens public understanding of ACS’s partnerships, influences key stakeholders, and reinforces ACS’s position as the leading voluntary health organization and trusted voice on cancer-related issues.
Reporting to the Vice President of External Communications, the Strategic Director collaborates closely with Communications, Executive, and Development leadership to advance mission priorities and support income development goals through earned media and thought leadership. This role is responsible for creating and executing comprehensive external communications plans that showcase the value and impact of corporate alliances, while ensuring alignment with organizational goals and brand reputation.

**This is a remote position**

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Develops and leads earned media strategy for corporate sponsorships (35%)

• Creates and executes national media strategies that position ACS’s corporate alliances as essential to advancing the organization’s mission and revenue goals. Ensures alignment with enterprise priorities and measurable impact on visibility and reputation.

Collaborates with Development and cross-functional teams (20%)

• Partners with Development leadership and internal stakeholders to develop and align communications strategies with fundraising priorities, sponsor expectations, and brand standards.

Crafts compelling narratives and media materials (15 %)

• Writes and oversees the development of press releases, talking points, executive messaging, and media pitches that highlight the value of corporate partnerships and integrate mission messaging.

Secures high-impact media coverage and builds media relationships (15%)

• Proactively pitches and places stories in national, trade, and business media. Cultivates relationships with key journalists and influencers in business, philanthropy, and health sectors.

Prepares spokespeople and advises on media engagement (10%)

• Prepares executives and subject matter experts for media interviews. Provides strategic counsel to internal teams and corporate partners on messaging, branding, and media best practices.

Monitors trends and evaluates media performance (5%)

• Tracks media coverage, analyzes campaign performance, and reports on reach, impact, and ROI to internal stakeholders and partners. Stays current on trends in CSR, health equity, and nonprofit-corporate relations.

EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum Degree Required: Bachelor's Degree
• Preferred Degree: Bachelor's Degree
• Years of experience:  7-10

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITY:

Education and Experience:

• 7–10 years of experience in media relations, communications, or a related field is required. Experience in journalism, a national health nonprofit, a corporation, or a PR agency is preferred. Internal ACS experience or nonprofit sector experience is a plus. Background in healthcare, science, medical, or mission-driven communications is highly desirable.

Strategic Communication Expertise:

• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute media strategies that support business objectives and elevate organizational visibility. Experience working with corporate sponsors in an agency setting or in the corporate environment preferred. Strong news judgment and the ability to think both strategically and creatively.

Media Relations and Storytelling:

• Proven experience managing media relations, including pitching and securing coverage, preparing spokespeople, and developing media materials. Ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.

Project and Relationship Management:

• Skilled in managing multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment. Strong understanding of client and partner relationship dynamics, with the ability to build consensus and influence outcomes in a matrixed, remote environment.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Comfortable working with volunteers, staff, executives, and cross-functional teams in a consultative and collaborative manner.

Leadership and Initiative:

• Highly motivated self-starter with strong initiative and follow-through. Capable of making sound administrative decisions and exercising judgment on sensitive and confidential matters.

Adaptability and Accountability:

• Demonstrates flexibility, attention to detail, and the ability to deliver high-quality work under tight deadlines. Brings a positive attitude, openness to feedback, and a strong desire to learn and grow.

Mission Alignment:

• Deep commitment to the mission and goals of the American Cancer Society, with a passion for advancing health equity and impact through strategic communications.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimal travel is currently required for this role.
• Some travel may be required on as-needed basis.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Work is typically performed in a home office environment.
• Must be available to respond to urgent communication needs outside of standard business hours, including evenings and weekends, as necessary.

The starting rate is $120,000 to $142,000. The final candidate's relevant experience/skills will be considered before an offer is extended. Actual starting pay will vary based on non-discriminatory factors including, but not limited to, geographic location, experience, skills, specialty, and education.

ACS provides staff a generous paid time off policy; medical, dental, retirement benefits, wellness programs, and professional development programs to enhance staff skills. Further details on our benefits can be found on our careers site at: jobs.cancer.org/benefits. We are a proud equal opportunity employer.