Director, Communications

American Heart Association What's your motivation? Do you want satisfying work that makes a real difference in people's lives? At the American Heart Association we're working to prevent, treat and defeat our nation's No. 1 killer, cardiovascular disease. We have an excellent opportunity for a Communications Director in our Denver, CO office. The Communications Director will coordinate and administer an ongoing media relations program with major print, broadcast and electronic media for the greater Denver area. Occasional nights and weekends are required. Responsibilities include: - Manage, plan, direct, control and implement an aggressive communications program in the media markets, with an emphasis on health communications, media advocacy and public relations support for fundraising events. - Proactively pitch AHA programs on a local level, seek out additional media opportunities in the area, work with capitol press staff to communicate AHA programs and initiatives, and coordinate local media sponsorships for AHA programs.- Provide consultation and training for regional volunteers and staff. - Work with field volunteers and staff to ensure effective local implementation of communications initiatives.- Comprehensive benefits; non-smoking office in Denver.Candidates must apply on-line at www.americanheart.org/careers as the AHA's recruitment process does not include the utilization of fax or hard copy resumes. No phone calls please. - BS in journalism or related field plus a minimum three to five years experience in communications, PR or advertising.- Must possess extraordinary oral and written communication skills, including news-writing, editing for print and broadcast.- Strong media relations experience, including media sponsorship negotiation and pitching to local TV, print and radio on an on-going basis - Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects with over-lapping deadlines. - Access to reliable transportationAttracting talented, committed employees means offering a competitive benefits package, ongoing professional development and training, and a diverse and inclusive environment in which to work and grow. And we do! Visit www.americanheart.org/careers and click "benefits" for more information or to apply. EOE MF/V/D