Senior Communications Manager

It’s More Than a Career, It’s a Mission.Our people are the foundation of our success. By joining our growing team at Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI), a subsidiary of McKesson, you will have the opportunity to become part of one of the largest community-based cancer programs to advance oncology treatments and improve outcomes for cancer patients across the globe. We look for mission-driven candidates who have a desire to advance the fight against cancer and make a difference in the lives of patients diagnosed with cancer every day.Our MissionPeople who live with cancer – those who work to prevent it, fight it, and survive it – are at the heart of every decision we make. Bringing the most innovative medical minds together with the most passionate caregivers in their communities, we are transforming care and personalizing treatment. Through clinical excellence and cutting-edge research, SCRI is redefining cancer care around the world.The Senior Manager, Communications | Media Relations plays a key role in shaping and executing a comprehensive, enterprise-wide communications strategy that strengthens brand reputation, elevates thought leadership, and supports organizational priorities. This role partners closely with physician leaders, executive stakeholders, and cross-functional teams to deliver integrated, high-impact communications across earned, owned, and shared channels. The ideal candidate brings a strategic mindset, strong storytelling skills, and the ability to navigate a complex, fast-paced healthcare environment.Public Relations & Media StrategyLead and execute proactive media relations strategies to elevate organizational visibility and credibility.Identify and secure media opportunities through strategic pitching, relationship-building, and storytelling.Manage inbound media inquiries and coordinate interviews with physicians, executives, and subject matter experts.Develop and place thought leadership content, including bylines, interviews, and expert commentary.Press & External CommunicationsDraft and manage all organizational press releases, ensuring alignment with brand voice and strategic priorities.Review and approve external press materials where the organization is referenced or quoted to ensure accuracy and positioning.Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external partners on announcements, messaging, and media strategy.Physician & Leadership EngagementPartner closely with physicians to identify and elevate research, clinical expertise, and patient impact stories.Advise executive leadership on communications strategy, positioning, and visibility opportunities.Prepare spokespeople for media engagement, including talking points and briefing materials.Monitoring, Reporting & InsightsOversee media monitoring and reporting, including tracking coverage, sentiment, and share of voice.Translate insights into actionable recommendations to refine PR strategy and improve impact.Maintain awareness of industry trends, media landscape shifts, and competitive positioning.Internal & Cross-Functional CommunicationsOversee key communications deliverables such as business development newsletters and targeted stakeholder updates.Partner with digital, marketing, and communications teams to ensure alignment across campaigns and channels.Support integrated communications planning across owned, earned, and paid efforts.Mandatory: The following are mandatory expectations of all SCRI employees.Practices and adheres to the “Code of Conduct” philosophy and “Mission and Value Statement.”During your employment with SCRI, you will be routinely assigned training requirements. You are expected to complete any training assignments by the due date.Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree required7+ years of experience in communications, public relations, or media relations (healthcare or life sciences preferred).Proven experience developing and executing successful media strategies and securing coverage.Strong writing and editing skills with experience drafting press releases and executive-level content.Experience working with senior leadership and subject matter experts.Knowledge of healthcare, clinical research, or oncology communications strongly preferred.Highly collaborative with strong organizational and project management skills.Ability to develop and execute integrated communications strategies that align with organizational priorities and elevate brand reputation.Proven ability to identify compelling narratives, pitch media effectively, and secure impactful earned coverage across national and trade outlets.Advanced writing and editing skills, with experience crafting press releases, executive messaging, thought leadership, and media materials with precision and clarity.Confidence and credibility to advise and partner with senior leaders and physicians on communications strategy, messaging, and media engagement.Ability to translate complex clinical and research concepts into clear, compelling, and patient-centered communications (strongly preferred in oncology or clinical research environments).Strong ability to work across marketing, digital, operations, and business development teams to deliver cohesive, integrated communications.Experience evaluating media coverage, sentiment, and performance metrics to inform strategy, optimize messaging, and demonstrate impact.Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and stakeholders in a fast-paced environment.Ability to build trust with journalists, internal stakeholders, and external partners to drive successful communications outcomes.Strong decision-making skills with the ability to navigate ambiguity, manage sensitive issues, and respond quickly to evolving circumstances.This role is hybrid in our Nashville, TN office. Interested candidates should submit their application through https://www.scri.com/careers/. Applications will be accepted through June 30, 2026. Please ensure all required materials are inclu