Media Relations Manager

Hennepin Healthcare is an integrated system of care that includes HCMC, a nationally recognized Level I Adult Trauma Center and Level I Pediatric Trauma Center and acute care hospital, as well as a clinic system with primary care clinics located in Minneapolis and across Hennepin County. The comprehensive healthcare system includes a 473-bed academic medical center, a large outpatient Clinic & Specialty Center, and a network of clinics in the North Loop, Whittier, and East Lake Street neighborhoods of Minneapolis, and in the suburban communities of Brooklyn Park, Golden Valley, Richfield, and St. Anthony Village. Hennepin Healthcare has a large psychiatric program, home care, and operates a research institute, philanthropic foundation, and Hennepin EMS. The system is operated by Hennepin Healthcare System, Inc., a subsidiary corporation of Hennepin County.

Equal Employment Opportunities: We believe equity is essential for optimal health outcomes and are committed to achieve optimal health for all by actively eliminating barriers due to racism, poverty, gender identity, and other determinants of health. We are committed to equitable care and working in an environment that celebrates, promotes, and protects diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. We are committed to bringing in individuals with new cultural perspectives to assist in creating a more equitable healthcare organization.

JOB DETAILS
Department: Public Relations
FTE: 1.0
Shift(s): Days
Location: In-Person

Purpose of this position: The Media Relations Manager is the primary online, broadcast and print media contact for Hennepin Healthcare. This position builds and maintains positive working relationships with reporters, promotes story placements that feature Hennepin Healthcare’s expertise, and prepares strategic communications to promote and preserve the organization’s reputation. The role is also responsible for development and execution of the media relations strategic plan.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serves as the primary point of contact for media, managing day to day inquiries and building strong relationships with local, national, and trade reporters to proactively secure coverage aligned with organizational priorities
• Develops, writes, and executes media materials (press releases, statements, social content) and prepares spokespeople to ensure clear, accurate, and consistent messaging
• Leads and supports rapid response efforts during high-profile or sensitive situations, including crisis communications, risk mitigation, and coordination with clinical, operational, and leadership teams
• Monitors media coverage, social channels, and healthcare trends to identify emerging issues, assess impact, and recommend proactive communication strategies
• Ensures all communications are compliant with patient privacy and regulatory requirements while demonstrating professionalism and empathy when engaging with patients, families, and staff - especially in complex or high-stress situations
• Remains apprised of best practices for emergency preparedness communications
• Supports Public Relations Department team efforts to promote Hennepin Healthcare
• Performs other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or public relations
• Minimum of five years of experience in media relations, public relations, journalism, or communications

-OR-

• An approved equivalent combination of education and experience

Knowledge/ Skills/Abilities:

• Demonstrated experience managing media inquiries and supporting communications during high-profile, sensitive, or crisis situations
• Strong writing, editing, and message development skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear, accurate communications
• Knowledge of media landscapes, healthcare trends, and applicable privacy, compliance, and regulatory requirements
• Highly organized and detailed with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Strong interpersonal communications skills

You've made the right choice in considering Hennepin Healthcare for your employment. We offer a wealth of opportunities for individuals who want to make an impact in our patients' lives. We are dedicated to providing Equal Employment Opportunities to both current and prospective employees. We are driven to connect talented individuals with life-changing career opportunities, enabling you to provide exceptional care without exception. Thank you for considering Hennepin Healthcare as a future employer.

Please Note:  Offers of employment from Hennepin Healthcare are conditional and contingent upon successful clearance of all background checks and pre-employment requirements.

• We offer a competitive pay rate based on your skills, licensure/certifications, education, experience related to this position, and internal equity.
• We provide an extensive benefits program that includes Medical; Dental; Vision; Life, Short and Long-term Term Disability Insurance; Retirement Funds; Paid Time Off; Tuition reimbursement; and license and Certification reimbursement (Available ONLY for benefit eligible positions).
• For a complete list of our benefits, please visit our career site on why you should work for us.