HudsonAlpha - Public Relations Coordinator

Position: Public Relations Coordinator

Job Type: Full-Time

Note: Position may allow a partial remote work environment if the selected candidate desires and has the infrastructure to support.

INSTITUTE OVERVIEW

The HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology (www.hudsonalpha.org) is a non-profit organization with the mission to use biotechnology and basic biological research to make important discoveries, improve human health, stimulate economic development, inspire young people to seek careers in science and teach members of the public the importance of science in their everyday lives. Located in Cummings Research Park in Huntsville, Alabama, one of the world's leading science and technology parks, HudsonAlpha's campus contains state-of-the-art laboratories for biological research and development, as well as education, in the areas of genomics, genetics and personalized medicine.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

The Communications department highlights the opportunities and achievements of HudsonAlpha promoting awareness of the Institute and creating an environment favorable to continued growth. The department develops and maintains integrated marketing communication activities that inform and engage internal and external audiences about the mission, work and accomplishments of HudsonAlpha and its associated entities, while protecting and enhancing the Institute's brand and reputation. Department personnel use news and editorial services, marketing, social and media relations and creative services (graphic design, photography, videography and web production) to raise the visibility of the Institute and its affiliated organizations through communications targeted to stakeholder groups, including but not limited to educators, researchers, legislators, philanthropic donors, the general public, entrepreneurs and the biosciences industry highlighting the potential impact to those groups.

JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for developing and implementing communications/public relations strategies and tactics among internal and external audiences in support of HudsonAlpha's vision and strategic plan. This includes verbal, written and electronic communication duties supporting brand and reputation, information/education, promotional marketing, advertising and fundraising. Serves as a project leader responsible for public relations and communication activities, publications and content.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations or related field required.
• Master's degree and/or APR preferred.
• Demonstrated writing, project management, marketing, organizational, computer and interpersonal communications skills required.
• Five or more years of professional experience in public relations or communications required. Advanced degrees may be substituted for years of experience.
• Management of the communications function, academic, fundraising and/or healthcare communication experience preferred.
• Strong presentation skills are highly valued.

Requirements/Preferences:

• General office equipment, personal computer with related industry software.
• Able to use general office equipment including computers and ability to learn associated software programs including Macintosh/Apple programs (preferred).
• Able to use desktop publishing and Internet-based media and email

ACCOUNTABILITY:

Supervised by: Communications Director

Supervises: Contractors and intern(s)

Interacts with HudsonAlpha faculty/staff, families, volunteers, media representatives, vendors, contractors, student interns, Board of Trustees, donors, community and business associates and leaders and contractors.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serves as part of the Communications team to research, develop, plan and implement strategic communications plans in support of the Institute's business and marketing objectives; oversees successful execution of projects and assigned tasks.
• Meets with assigned internal and external individuals and groups to plan communications strategies and tactics; recommends and manages communication/public relations plans in support of Institute goals and objectives.
• Serves as a content creator by developing original content for a variety of identified audiences and media.
• Serves as a point of contact for selected internal departments.
• Provides project leadership for a variety of activities including marketing, public relations and informational communications (promotions, print, direct mail pieces, email, etc.).
• Helps lead the communications team in the development and implementation (in conjunction with other staff) of communication assets and collateral supporting strategic national marketing initiatives for targeted services.
• Provides media and communication consultation on Institute, public health, emergency/disaster, and other high profile situations.
• Contributes to the team in a manner which encourages a positive work environment, teamwork and optimal productivity.
• Participates in special projects, committees and events with appropriate business leaders, co-workers, donors, vendors and others.
• Performs other duties as assigned. Serves as a positive and professional team player with behavior that exemplifies the mission, vision and values of the Institute.

Physical Demands/Environmental Factors/Mental Functions

ADA Requirements - The physical demands, work environment factors, and mental functions described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential function of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Disclaimer - All job requirements are subject to possible revision to reflect changes in the position requirements or to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a threat or risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties which will be required in this position. Employees will be required to follow other job-related duties as requested by their supervisor/manager (within guidelines and compliance with Federal and State Laws). Continued employment remains on an "at-will" basis.

Physical Demands

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position (sit or stand) for prolonged periods (50% of the time).
• Constant moving during campus events.
• Must be able to transport materials required for various experiences.
• Frequent operation of common office equipment (e.g. computers, mobile devices, calculators, copiers, scanners).
• Frequently move around HudsonAlpha campus to monitor guests of HudsonAlpha.
• Occasional air/car travel for meetings, conferences, or other activities which may require overnight stay(s).
• Vision abilities - close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust/focus.
• Some events may take place outside of typical business hour

Environmental Factors

• Moderate noise level (i.e. business office with computers, phone, and printers, light traffic).
• Workspace is generally an indoor office setting and in other common and education spaces throughout HudsonAlpha with controlled temperature conditions.
• Occasional exposure to the outdoor environment during portions of the workday including extreme cold or hot temperatures, or inclement weather conditions.
• Indoor - Frequent = 1/3 to 2/3 of work day

Mental Functions

• Maintain emotional control under stress.
• This position may experience job-related stress due to deadlines and work schedules.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, in the English language.
• Use interpersonal skills to foster a stimulating, collaborative environment.

It is the policy of HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, in accordance with all applicable laws, to recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law.