Account Manager, Public Relations (Health) Job at Highwire in San Francisco

Account Manager, Public Relations (Health)
Account Managers on our Health team lead communications programs for organizations across the healthcare and health innovation landscape. They bring a strong understanding of the healthcare ecosystem — including digital health, healthcare technology, patient care innovation, health systems, and emerging health trends — and help translate complex topics into compelling, business‑relevant narratives.

In this role, Account Managers manage multiple client accounts, overseeing strategic communications planning, media relations, executive visibility, and issues management. They serve as trusted partners to their clients, guiding programs that build credibility, strengthen thought leadership, and foster trust in one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving industries.

Account Managers also mentor junior team members, contribute to new business development, and help advance Highwire’s reputation as a leading healthcare communications agency.

Key Responsibilities
Media Relations

Develop and lead proactive media and analyst relations programs for health clients — spanning topics like healthcare innovation, digital health, patient outcomes, health data, and industry trends.

Build and maintain relationships with key healthcare, technology, and business journalists as well as influential industry analysts.

Identify timely story opportunities tied to healthcare innovation, research developments, policy trends, and breaking news.

Craft compelling story angles and data‑driven pitches that drive high‑impact coverage in top‑tier business, healthcare, and trade outlets.

Leverage digital and social media channels to enhance thought leadership and media amplification.

Measure and report ROI of media and influencer engagement efforts.

Identify opportunities for client executives to participate in thought leadership activities such as podcasts, conferences, and panels.

Client Service/Management

Serve as the day‑to‑day client lead, managing strategic communications programs from planning to results.

Develop PR and thought leadership strategies that strengthen brand reputation, support business goals, and differentiate clients in the competitive healthcare market.

Set measurable goals tied to coverage, awareness, and thought leadership outcomes.

Provide strategic counsel on communications challenges, product launches, healthcare initiatives, and reputation management.

Oversee budgets, team priorities, and deliverables, ensuring quality and efficiency across all programs.

Proactively identify new opportunities to expand client relationships and program impact.

Lead client media training sessions and prepare executive spokespeople for interviews and events.

Draft and edit health‑focused communications materials, including press releases, bylined articles, briefing documents, and award submissions.

Create compelling content that translates complex healthcare topics into clear, accessible narratives for business and industry audiences.

Develop and refine pitches that highlight client insights around healthcare trends, research, and industry innovation.

Review and edit team materials to ensure accuracy, clarity, and adherence to Highwire’s high standards.

Communicate professionally, clearly, and proactively with clients and colleagues.

Agency Operations

Manage 2+ direct reports, establishing goals, providing feedback, and conducting performance reviews.

Foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment where creativity and accountability thrive.

Support new business initiatives by researching prospects, contributing to pitch strategy, and presenting to potential clients.

Represent Highwire at healthcare conferences, media events, and networking opportunities.

Model professionalism, enthusiasm, and respect in all interactions with clients and colleagues.

Contribute to Highwire’s own thought leadership, including writing for our blog or engaging through social channels.

Self Development

Partner with senior leadership to establish and track quarterly development goals.

Demonstrate initiative in expanding industry knowledge and leadership capabilities.

Stay current on healthcare news, policy developments, and industry trends to inform client strategy.

Actively seek learning opportunities through industry events, webinars, and certifications.

Manage workload effectively, meet deadlines consistently, and communicate progress proactively.

Participate in Highwire professional development and mentorship programs to continue career growth.

Success Factors

5+ years of PR, communications, or marketing experience in an agency environment (required)

Experience working with healthcare, health technology, digital health, or life sciences clients (required)

Strong understanding of the healthcare landscape and media ecosystem

Established relationships with healthcare, business, and technology media

Proven ability to develop and lead communications strategies that drive visibility and credibility for healthcare brands

Strong writing and storytelling skills, particularly for complex or data‑driven topics

Experience managing multiple client accounts, budgets, and teams simultaneously

Track record of mentoring and developing junior team members

Calm and confident under pressure — able to guide clients through complex or sensitive communications situations

Strategic thinker with a proactive, collaborative, and solutions‑oriented mindset

Salary: $80,000 to $105,000 (range based on education, experience, and other factors). Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) matching, generous paid time off, and additional perks to support well‑being and growth.

Work Location
Hybrid:

Candidates located within commuting distance of our New York, NY or San Francisco, CA offices follow a hybrid schedule, with three in‑office days per week.

Remote:

We hire for fully remote roles in the following states: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Washington, D.C. Candidates must reside in one of these states at the time of hire.

Benefits

Competitive salary with merit‑based opportunities for growth

Flexible hybrid work model tailored to your schedule and lifestyle

Generous vacation policy, including extended summer and winter breaks

Early log‑off on Fridays through our Empower Hours program

401(k) plan with employer matching

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus FSA options

Paid parental leave benefits

Annual Growth Mindset stipend for books, events, or learning experiences

Monthly technology reimbursement

Wellness benefit program for mental and physical health

501(c)(3) donation matching program

Mentorship and ongoing professional development opportunities

Monthly recognition and team celebrations

Employee referral and new business referral bonuses

Quarterly Highwire events and team gatherings

Dog‑friendly office environment (for hybrid locations)

Equal Opportunity Employer
We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, or any other protected class.

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