About this role
Position Summary
The Director of Strategic Communications is responsible for developing and executing communication strategies that strengthen the organization's reputation as a trusted healthcare provider. This role ensures clear, consistent messaging across internal and external channels, supports patient engagement initiatives, and promotes programs that advance community health and employee well-being.
Primary Functions
• Strategic Communications:
• Develop and implement communication plans aligned with healthcare mission and organizational goals.
• Support crisis communication planning for patient safety, reputation, and compliance matters.
• Content Development & Management:
• Create and manage content for newsletters, patient education materials, and intranet updates.
• Co-create and support and digital content strategy, including website updates and analytics focused on healthcare services.
• Media & Public Relations:
• Build relationships with local media and healthcare partners to promote programs and initiatives.
• Craft media pitches and press releases, and prepare media spokesperson with talking points, as needed.
• Support coordination of interviews, press events, and public statements related to health campaigns and organizational milestones.
• Internal Communications:
• Develop initiatives to improve employee engagement and information flow across clinical and administrative teams.
• Collaborate with HR on workforce communications, compliance updates, and recognition programs.
• Digital & Social Media:
• Oversee social media presence to share health education, community outreach, and organizational news.
• Track engagement metrics and adjust strategies to reach patients and stakeholders effectively.
• Collaboration & Leadership:
• Work closely with Human Resources, Information Technology, VP of Development, executive leadership and clinical leadership to align messaging with patient care priorities.
• Supervise communication managers and specialists.
• Serves as backup for Chief Communications Officer
Educational Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field (Master's degree preferred).
Experience & Qualifications
• 10+ years of experience in communications, preferably in healthcare or nonprofit sectors.
• Strong writing, editing, and presentation skills with knowledge AP Style, HIPAA and healthcare compliance standards.
• Proficiency in digital platforms, social media management, and analytics tools.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Adaptability and creativity in messaging for diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities.
About Swope Health
Swope Health, the Kansas City region's largest Federally Qualified Health Center, has provided comprehensive primary care, dental care and mental health services in the Greater Kansas City area for more than 56 years. Recognized as a patient-centered medical home by the National Committee for Quality Assurance, our commitment to an integrated model of healthcare aligns with our mission to improve community health and wellness through accessible, quality, comprehensive patient care.
Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities and The Joint Commission, we served nearly 56,000 patients in 2025 at 24 locations throughout the area, including Kansas City, Belton, Independence, North Kansas City, Hickman Mills, and Wyandotte and Leavenworth Counties in Kansas. Swope Health is a special place that cares for the people who need it most, wherever they are in the community.