JOB OVERVIEW:The Senior Director, Communications will partner closely with the initiative's CEO and President and other senior leaders to design, lead, and implement an integrated communications strategy that advances BioCrossroads' mission and strengthens visibility and influence for Indiana's life sciences sector. This position provides strategic oversight across internal and external communications, public relations, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and the broader CICP strategy.
BioCrossroads' initiatives are highly complex and deeply impactful for the state, requiring collaboration with senior leaders and stakeholders across the public, private, philanthropic, non-profit, and academic sectors. The Senior Director will provide thought leadership and counsel on communications strategy, proactively identifying opportunities to enhance the organization's brand reputation and amplify its statewide and national impact.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:- Lead the development and execution of a multi-year strategic communications and public education plan that supports BioCrossroads' mission, ensuring cohesive messaging across all platforms, including digital, media, events, and stakeholder communications.
- Provide leadership and direction to communications staff, consultants, and agency partners to ensure excellence in brand storytelling, creative execution, and audience engagement.
- Oversee the strategic planning and execution of major initiatives, including the BioCrossroads Life Sciences Summit and FrameWORX events, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities and visibility objectives.
- Develop and manage sponsorship and partnership strategies to expand reach and engagement among key audiences.
- Direct the creation of signature communications assets such as the BioCrossroads Annual Report, thought leadership content, and research publications that position the organization as a leading voice for the life sciences industry.
- Oversee and evaluate the performance of agency partners and consultants, ensuring deliverables meet strategic and brand standards.
- Serve as the senior brand steward for BioCrossroads and related initiatives, ensuring consistent and impactful brand representation across all channels.
- Develop, manage, and forecast the annual communications and marketing budget, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and efficient use of resources.
- Establish and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) and analytics to measure the effectiveness of communications initiatives and inform future strategy.
- Collaborate with CICP leadership and initiative communications teams to strengthen alignment, maximize reach, and share best practices across the partnership network.
- Act as the primary liaison to CICP's corporate communications function to coordinate messaging and ensure integration across initiatives.
- Provide executive communications support to the initiative president and CEO, including message development, talking points, presentations, and media engagement.
- Perform other duties as assigned in support of BioCrossroads' mission and strategic goals.
QUALIFICATIONS:- Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field required; advanced degree preferred.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible communications, marketing, or public affairs experience, including at least 3 years in a leadership or management role.
- Experience in life sciences, healthcare, or related sectors strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated success in leading cross-functional teams and managing external agencies to deliver high-impact communications initiatives.
- Proven ability to provide strategic counsel to executives and translate complex ideas into compelling narratives for diverse audiences.
- Experience developing integrated communications strategies that include media relations, digital marketing, thought leadership, and stakeholder engagement.
- Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with a strong executive presence and ability to represent the organization externally.
- Ability to lead through influence and build trust with senior stakeholders and partners.
- Strong business and political acumen; ability to navigate complex environments with diplomacy and discretion.
- Exceptional project and people management skills, with demonstrated success in leading complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives from concept through implementation.
- Ability to lead both independently and collaboratively within a matrixed environment.
- Experience managing and optimizing relationships with creative, marketing, and PR agencies.
- Ability to foster collaboration and inclusive dialogue among a wide range of partners and stakeholders.
- High degree of initiative, strategic thinking, and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
COMPETITIVE BENEFITS:- 100% of healthcare and dental premiums paid for individual and family.
- Pre-tax & Roth 401(k) Retirement Plan with generous match: 5% contributed by the employer regardless of employee contribution and up to an additional 5% employee voluntary contribution eligible to be matched by the employer.
- Company-paid group life benefits as well as company-paid short-term and long-term disability insurance.
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) including 18 holidays.
- Office location at 16 Tech Innovation District with hybrid remote flexibility.
