The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), the largest philanthropy in America dedicated solely to health, seeks a forward-thinking professional to serve as its new Assistant Vice President for Strategic Communications (AVP). A new position, the AVP will provide critical communications leadership and alignment as the Foundation broadens and refines its communications efforts in pursuit of a Culture of Health.
As the Foundation enters its 50th year, staff and leadership are redoubling their efforts to build a Culture of Health and are positioning RWJF’s Communications Department for the next 25 years. The new AVP will be a vital partner in building upon the Foundation’s past communications successes, working to drive forward-leaning strategies that look high and far and swing big. Through these efforts, the AVP will help the Foundation realize and increase the impact of its distinct voice for the health of everyone in America.
Reporting to the Vice President for Communications, Allyn Brooks-LaSure, and working collaboratively with RWJF senior leadership and others across the communications team, the AVP will help lead efforts to define, develop, refine, and deploy a coherent and cohesive communications strategy that maximizes the Departments’ efficacy and impact across internal and external audiences. An essential partner in this work will be the Associate Vice President of Communications, who oversees Communications Operations and Foundation Brand management. Together, the Associate and Assistant Vice Presidents will meld their unique assets around institutional knowledge, communications strategy, and inspired leadership.
The AVP will serve as a key thought partner to the VP for Communications and Department Directors in seeing the 36,000 ft communications view, braiding together the high-level goals of RWJF thematic and functional communications planning and in marshalling the Foundation’s resources, influence, and evidence-base in driving a proactive agenda to engage and support the communities RWJF aims to serve. The AVP will lead a dynamic team that includes Digital Director, Senior Director of Program Communications, Executive Communications Director, Director of Messaging and Content, and Media Relations Director.
The ideal candidate will bring a demonstrated track record of spurring strategic communications impact in a way that shifts mindsets, supports communities, and fosters a national culture that supports health equity, opportunities for all to thrive, and a generational Culture of Health. As such, the new AVP will need to be a strategic, collaborative professional and bring an understanding of communications at the enterprise level of complex organizations, including the myriad platforms and avenues through which communications can have the greatest impact (media relations, digital, brand strategy, social media, etc.). Compelling candidates for this position must be highly motivated, capable of self-directed work, be holistic in their thinking as well as detail-oriented and able to work collaboratively across teams and departments. Incumbents must have a keen sense of responsibility and enjoy working with multiple demands, shifting priorities and constant change.
The successful candidate will be a consultative thought partner and strong relationship builder. Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills are necessary. Strong verbal and written communications skills are absolute musts. Experience leading multi-portfolio teams and designing and leading communications campaigns or initiatives to support policy is highly preferred. An undergraduate education is required, as is experience successfully working in complex environments. with significant post-graduation experience will be considered. Most importantly, a personal and professional commitment to anti-racism, equity and inclusiveness is vital to advancing the Guiding Principles of RWJF, including the understanding of how one’s own identity and lived experiences inform their work.
Nominations & Instructions to Apply
Talent Citizen, a national executive search and talent consulting firm focused on the pursuit of positive social impact with equity at its center, is partnering with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation on this search. President Tracy Welsh, Senior Associate Connor Daley, and Senior Associate Eva Kotilinek are leading this engagement. Additional questions and nominations of candidates should be directed to Connor (cdaley@talentcitizen.com).
Interested parties should please send an updated resume, cover letter, and how you learned of the position to RWJF-AVPSC@talentcitizen.com.
