Associate Director, Earned Media

About the role

The Associate Director, Earned Media operates at the intersection of scientific storytelling and media influence, owning the strategic and operational execution of earned media programs for a diverse portfolio of clients in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors. This position is responsible for translating complex scientific narratives into compelling, media-ready stories that drive measurable awareness and reputation outcomes. The role demands close collaboration with integrated teams, ensuring that media strategies are aligned with broader business objectives and client expectations. You will foster a culture of innovation by leveraging data and insights to refine pitches and optimize outreach in a constantly evolving media landscape. Ownership of end-to-end campaign management, from initial strategy through execution and post-campaign analysis, defines the day-to-day impact of this role. You are a trusted advisor who balances creative storytelling with rigorous planning to deliver results for clients and value for the organization.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Serve as a strategic and operational lead for earned media programs, managing media strategy, execution, and stakeholder alignment for clients in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries.
• Act as the primary day-to-day contact for select media accounts, providing leadership and guidance as a senior resource while supporting other accounts as a deputy authority.
• Research, cultivate, and maintain relationships with local, trade, and national-tier journalists to build a robust media network that serves client objectives.
• Track, analyze, and synthesize media performance data, preparing clear summaries and insights for both internal teams and external client stakeholders.
• Provide proactive support for new business development, including media research, narrative development, and contribution to sales presentations and client-facing materials.
• Anticipate project challenges, manage earned media budgets, and coordinate cross-functional workflows with social, paid, search, and analytics teams.
• Lead large-scale earned media initiatives, defining project scopes, managing timelines, and aligning internal resources to meet client goals.
• Nurture core media relationships through consistent communication, performance reporting, and the sharing of market learnings across the organization.
• Act as a liaison for key sponsored content and thought leadership outlets such as STAT, ensuring effective integration within broader media strategies.
• Apply integrated PESO thinking to connect earned media efforts with other communications disciplines for maximum impact.
• Identify, evaluate, and activate relevant influencers in collaboration with analytics and influencer marketing teams.
• Mentor junior staff by providing training on Real Chemistry processes, healthcare media dynamics, and professional responsibilities.
• Synthesize cross-functional capabilities and champion teamwork to ensure cohesive execution across social, paid, and owned channels.
• Establish clear performance objectives and utilize management tools to track alignment, progress, and outcomes for both teams and clients.
• Embody Real Chemistry's core values in all client and internal interactions, demonstrating integrity, curiosity, and a commitment to excellence.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience in a relevant field such as communications, public relations, journalism, or life sciences.
• A minimum of six years of professional experience in media, public relations, corporate communications, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated success managing complex earned media campaigns for clients in highly regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals or biotechnology.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex scientific information into clear, accessible messages for diverse audiences.
• A proven track record of building and maintaining strong relationships with journalists and media professionals across various sectors.
• Strong project management capabilities, including experience with budgeting, timeline management, and cross-functional coordination.
• Self-motivation, resilience, and adaptability in a fast-paced environment where priorities may shift rapidly.
• Comfort working independently and collaboratively as part of a globally distributed, cross-functional team.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data, derive insights, and adjust strategies based on performance metrics.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for client or company events, as required, and availability to work across multiple time zones when necessary.

Nice to have

• Experience with AI-driven communications tools and platforms that enhance media engagement and content distribution.
• Familiarity with healthcare-focused media outlets and the unique considerations of scientific storytelling in regulated environments.

Practical notes

This role may be remote, based in Carmel, Indiana, or a hybrid arrangement, with flexibility for remote FL, TN, or PA locations. Travel requirements are minimal but may be necessary for specific client or company engagements.