Outreach and Communications Manager for Rural Health Transformation

About the role

The hired candidate will develop and manage the strategic communication plan for the Connecticut Rural Health Transformation Program and specific initiatives implemented by the Department of Social Services. They will act as the primary liaison between the CDC Foundation, CDC, and diverse stakeholders to ensure consistent messaging and alignment with program goals. This role requires crafting compelling narratives that translate complex public health strategies into accessible information for varied audiences. The manager will oversee the dissemination of materials and coordinate public engagement efforts to build broad support for rural health initiatives. They will establish and maintain strong working relationships with media outlets to maximize opportunities for engagement on Rural Health Transformation topics. In addition, the hire will support the newly formed Rural Health Transformation Advisory Council and Regional Collaboratives through targeted communications and leadership support. This position demands adaptability, as roles and responsibilities may change to align with evolving program priorities and directives.

Key facts

What you'll do

Develop and manage the strategic communication plan for the overall Rural Health Transformation Program and specific initiatives implemented by the Department of Social Services.

Develop, implement, and coordinate communications and briefings for internal and external stakeholders, including state agencies, Congressional and state legislators and legislative delegations, healthcare providers, municipal and regional government agencies, community-based organizations, and other community partners.

Prepare, edit, and present reports and updates for internal and external stakeholders, such as slide decks, talking points, presentation notes, website updates, social media posts, newsletters, press releases, and press conferences.

Acting in concert with the Connecticut Department of Social Services' Communications team, establish and maintain strong working relationships with media outlets to maximize opportunities for engagement on Rural Health Transformation topics.

Support active communications and stakeholder engagement, including engaging with and providing leadership and staff support to a newly created Rural Health Transformation Advisory Council and Regional Collaboratives.

Manage public inquiries, email lists, and other incoming communications requests to ensure timely and accurate information flow.

Pilot and test new, innovative strategies for public engagement so that the Department of Social Services and its sister RHTP implementing agencies can reach key interested stakeholders living in Northeast and Northwest Connecticut.

When directed by the Connecticut Department of Social Services RHTP leadership, oversee contracted partners relevant to outreach and communications, including but not limited to the RHTP evaluation contractor.

Manage the RHTP brand identity and visual standards across all channels, including managing review when required by the federal government in accordance with RHTP award terms and conditions.

Serve as a subject matter expert in rural health communication strategies, contributing to the overall success and sustainability of the transformation program.

Collaborate closely with program evaluation teams to ensure that communication outputs are aligned with data, outcomes, and performance metrics.

Represent the CDC Foundation and the Connecticut Department of Social Services at relevant meetings, forums, and stakeholder gatherings to articulate program value and impact.

Maintain up-to-date knowledge of rural health trends, policies, and best practices to inform messaging and strategic direction.

Ensure all communication products adhere to federal guidelines and the specific requirements of the Rural Health Transformation award.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field; and 8+ years of professional experience.

Possess a demonstrated history of developing and implementing internal and external communications plans for complex initiatives.

Show strong oral and written communication skills, including advanced writing, editing, presenting, and storytelling abilities for diverse audiences.

Have public relations or communications experience involving a wide variety of internal and external stakeholders, particularly within local, state, or federal government contexts.

Exhibit strong customer service orientation and advanced problem-solving capabilities when managing sensitive or high-stakes inquiries.

Demonstrate digital literacy proficiency, including expertise with email marketing platforms and social media management tools.

Have the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced, dynamic public health environment.

Be capable of traveling throughout the State of Connecticut on a regular basis to meet with partners and attend events.

Nice to have

Developing and implementing internal and external communications plans;

Strong oral and written communication, including writing, editing, presenting, and storytelling;

Public relations/communications involving a variety of internal and external stakeholders, especially in or related to local, state or federal government;

Customer service and problem solving; and

Demonstrated digital Literacy proficiency including email marketing and social media.

Practical notes

This role is a hybrid position that may require statewide travel.

Position End Date: 7/31/2027.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.