Director of Communications

Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) is the world’s largest advocacy association representing member companies, state biotechnology groups, academic and research institutions, and related organizations across the United States and in 30+ countries. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. BIO also produces the BIO International Convention, the world’s largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, along with industry-leading investor and partnering meetings held around the world.

The Director of Communications will work closely with BIO leadership, the communications team, and external agencies/consultants to align communications strategy with organizational goals. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in media relations, communications strategy, and the healthcare/biotech sector, with a proven track record of success in communications roles.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Communications Planning: Develop and execute integrated communications plans that align with BIO’s policy and legislative objectives and overall organizational priorities. Work with internal teams to define and amplify key messages, positioning, and communications strategies.
• Content Creation: Write and edit high-quality press materials, including press releases, key messages, op-eds, FAQs, Q&As, and organizational statements that reflect BIO’s policy agenda and core values.
• Media Relations: Cultivate strong relationships with key reporters and media outlets covering the biotech and healthcare sectors. Lead media outreach efforts, facilitate interviews, and serve as a primary spokesperson when appropriate.
• Agency & Consultant Management: Manage and collaborate with communications agencies and consultants to ensure effective execution of communication strategies. Provide oversight and guidance to external partners to meet organizational objectives.
• Thought Leadership & Advocacy: Identify opportunities for thought leadership, including op-eds, bylined articles, and panels to elevate BIO’s role as a leader in biotech innovation and policy.
• Rapid Response: Manage and respond to critical communication issues, providing advice on media strategy to leadership and ensuring that BIO’s messaging is timely, accurate, and consistent.
• Monitoring & Reporting: Stays up to date on industry trends, policy developments, and media coverage. Provide regular reports and analysis to leadership on the effectiveness of communications strategies and media coverage.

REQUIRED BACKGROUND, EDUCATION, and SKILLS:

• 7+ years of experience in communications, ideally in healthcare, biotech, or a related field. A Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Political Science, or a related field is required.
• Proven track record of engaging with top-tier and trade reporters and securing positive media coverage in relevant sectors.
• Deep experience in crafting and executing communications strategies that support organizational objectives and advance public policy goals.
• Understanding of the biotechnology and healthcare sectors, including emerging trends, regulatory landscape, and policy issues that impact the industry.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with the ability to distill complex scientific and policy topics into clear, compelling content for diverse audiences.
• Strong leadership abilities with experience managing teams and collaborating with senior executives, external agencies, and cross-functional teams.

BIO is an equal opportunity employer. BIO does not discriminate in employment with regard to race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, age, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, marital status, physical or mental disability, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service or any other characteristic protected by law.