Manager/Senior Manager, Group Communications Office

The NUHS Communications Office directs and oversees communications strategies and plans at the group level. The Manager/Senior Manager will be part of a media team that is responsible for liaising with the media to secure impactful coverage and manage crisis communications.

She/he is expected to lead and execute media strategies and publicity plans that enhance the public profile of NUHS, including conceptualisation of news angles and the crafting of compelling media narratives. The Manager/Senior Manager supports the Senior Assistant Director in the planning and organisation of high-profile media events and announcements.

The Manager/Senior Manager must have experience in managing crisis communications and be able to take the lead in managing sensitive communications, including high-stake issues related to patient safety or service incidents. S/he must be able to provide strategic counsel to senior leadership on communication risks, reputational impact, and strategic response plans.

The incumbent is required to work in close coordination with the communications teams of the various entities within NUHS as well as external stakeholders such as government ministries, partners, vendors and sponsors.

The Manager/Senior Manager will be required to lead discussions with media partners and internal customers, and able to persuade convincingly. She/he is expected to navigate complex stakeholder environments with confidence, clarity and professionalism.

Responsibilities

·       Proactively identify, develop and pitch healthcare stories to drive media coverage of key initiatives, programmes and events.

·       Organise media briefings and conferences for key announcements; and develop collaterals for interviews.

·       Field and facilitate media queries and ensure that messages are delivered accurately and in accordance with the media policies.

·       Plan and write press releases, develop Q&As and briefing notes, and prepare spokesperson(s) for interviews.

·       Strategise crisis communications and manage the execution of response plans.

·       Work with various internal and external stakeholders such as statutory boards, ministries and public relations firms to develop content and key messages.

·       Supervise and provide guidance to junior members of the team to work effectively with the media.

·       Manage operational & training budget, recruitment and resource planning.

·       Media monitoring and analysis.

Requirements

·       A degree in mass communications, journalism or a relevant discipline with at least 8 – 10 years of relevant working experience as a communications professional

·       Strong experience in crisis communications and management

·       Sharp sense of news and able to translate technical jargons into layman terms

·       Strong writing and presentation skills

·       Strong in English with a good command of a Mother Tongue language

·       Good interpersonal skills

·       Able to perform under pressure

·       Able to work well independently and in a team as well as with external stakeholders

·       Meticulous with a keen eye for details

·       Resourceful and adaptable

·       Prior relevant experience in journalism or public healthcare is a plus