Lucas James Talent Partners is hiring: Assistant VP Public Affairs & Media Relat

Assistant VP Public Affairs & Media Relations

Associate Vice President, Public Affairs / Media Relations

About the Role

Orlando Health is seeking an experienced Associate Vice President (AVP) of Public Affairs and Media Relations to lead our systemwide strategy in public affairs, media relations, and reputation management.

In this high-impact role, you’ll direct a talented team responsible for shaping, protecting, and elevating the reputation of one of Florida’s most trusted healthcare systems. As a strategic advisor to senior leadership, you’ll drive proactive and reactive media strategies, oversee crisis communications, and lead initiatives that strengthen public understanding of our mission and priorities.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the public affairs and media relations team and support the Issues Management Council.
• Develop and execute proactive and reactive media strategies, including crisis communications.
• Serve as senior public relations counsel to executive leadership on matters impacting image and reputation.
• Partner closely with internal communications, physician communications, social media, and reputation management teams to ensure alignment across all internal and external channels.
• Collaborate with community and government relations on policy and advocacy communications.
• Partner with legal counsel to align communication strategies with legal and regulatory considerations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with media outlets across the region.
• Serve as an official spokesperson for Orlando Health and its affiliates.
• Oversee development of key institutional messaging, briefing materials, and public education campaigns.
• Manage the on‑call media schedule, review press releases, and provide media activity reporting.

What We’re Looking For

A confident, strategic communicator with exceptional judgment and leadership skills. You thrive in a fast‑paced, high‑visibility environment and bring creativity, calm under pressure, and a passion for advancing healthcare communication that makes a difference in people’ lives.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Marketing, Public Relations, Communications, or related field required; Master’s preferred.

Experience

• 8+ years in media relations, including 3–5 years in healthcare (preferred).
• Proven success in crisis communication and issues management.
• Journalism or newsroom background highly desirable.

Join a nationally recognized healthcare organization that values innovation, integrity, and compassion. At Orlando Health, you’ll be part of a collaborative culture dedicated to improving lives through excellence in care and communication.