Senior Writer

UW Medicine has an outstanding opportunity for a Senior Writer to join their team.


Reporting to the Senior Executive Director, Strategic Communications, the Senior Writer (payroll title: Public Information Specialist) is a skilled communicator able to translate complex issues into key messages that inform audiences both internally and externally. The Senior Writer works with leaders at all levels of UW Medicine (health system and school of medicine) on a variety of topics and issues in the planning and execution of well-crafted and timely content. This position is part of UW Medicine’s Strategic Marketing and Communications team dedicated to advancing UW Medicine’s mission to improve the health of all people through powerful content and outreach.


Duties and Responsibilities

 

• Navigate a variety of topics and translate complex information into clear, concise, and strategic messages for internal and external audiences consistent with institutional priorities.
• Develop accurate and engaging content for use across multiple channels (e.g., email, talking points, presentations, videos, social media, award nominations, thought leadership pieces, event materials and interviews).
• Produce communication materials for a wide variety of audiences including physicians, employees, patients, and community members, and which connects with individuals with diverse backgrounds.
• Ensure writing deliverables are appropriately edited, proofed, and adhere to UW Medicine’s brand and editorial guidelines.
• Communicate progress to project team and other internal audiences as needed.
• Partner with marketing and external communications teams to ensure alignment with communications strategy, messaging, timing, and channel usage, as appropriate.
• Attend meetings related to sometimes-urgent matters that may require communication.
• Draft leadership messages across UW Medicine, including CEOs, president of hospitals and clinics, executive directors, deans, and chairs, while ensuring the “voice” of the leader is appropriately captured in the messaging.
• Draft organizational statements.
• Help facilitate the review and approval process of written pieces.
• Review and edit content developed by others, including agency contract writers.
• Ensure that all materials are on message and embody a high degree of professionalism through an understanding of UW Medicine’s services and culture.
• Serve as a consultant to help others across UW Medicine determine their communication needs.
• Related duties as assigned.
  
  
   

Requirements

 

• Bachelor’s degree with emphasis on communications, writing, public relations, journalism or related field, and at least 4 years (8-10 years preferred) of writing and editing experience in a large multi-faceted organization. Non-traditional but related backgrounds and experience may be substituted for stated requirements.
• Fluent understanding of inclusive language, accessibility and diversity, equity, and inclusion considerations.
• High level of computer literacy skills including experience with MS Office Suite.
• Extensive experience writing and editing organizational communication materials with high levels of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume and often ambiguous/fast-changing environment.
• Ability to work independently and within a team-based, collaborative environment.
• Ability to occasionally work outside of typical business hours as needed to address urgent situations.
• Ability to proactively identify communications opportunities and develop supporting materials.
• Exceptionally strong communication (oral and written), writing, and organizational skills.
• Ability to write material relevant for diverse audiences.
• Ability to implement and deliver on aggressive timelines.
• History of ability to multi-task, adjust to diverse roles and remain comfortable in a dynamic environment with dynamic people.
• Prefer experience in mission-driven organizations.
• Prefer experience in healthcare communications.