Senior Writer, Executive Communications (Hybrid Schedule)

HHMI is focused on supporting and moving science forward in a variety of different ways ranging from conducting basic biomedical research, empowering educators, inspiring students, developing the next generation of scientists - even stretching into film and media production. Our Headquarters is in the greater Washington, DC metro area and is home to over 300 employees with expertise in investments, communications, digital production, biomedical sciences, and everything in between. The work housed here supports and augments the groundbreaking research conducted in HHMI labs across the nation. As HHMI scientists continue to push boundaries in laboratories and classrooms, you can be sure that your contributions while working here are making a difference.

Summary:

HHMI's communications team develops strategy and creative content that advance the organization's mission to drive science forward. We're a close-knit, collaborative group committed to continuous individual and team development, including through hands-on experience, outcomes-focused planning, and adaptability.

The Senior Writer is an experienced, adept, and versatile writer, who directly contributes to the execution of our communications strategy through writing and editing a variety of executive communications. Reporting to the Director of Internal Communications, you will work directly with the President's Office to support messages and presentations by HHMI's President and several senior leaders.

To succeed in this role, you will have expertise in writing in the "voice" of executive leaders and accept ambiguity, act on feedback, and remain focused and positive when circumstances change. The person in this role is expected to be a thought partner to senior leaders, demonstrate outstanding interpersonal skills, and develop relationships with a variety of partners. The Senior Writer will also need to ensure that their own activities and approach align with the expectations of the President. This role requires the agility to work independently and in coordination with others across the Institute.

What we deliver:

• A role that is uniquely positioned to have an impact across the scientific landscape and organization because of its ability to provide outstanding solutions and support to the President.

• An opportunity to evolve and grow in this new role.

• An organization that believes in continuous learning and cultivates an environment where colleagues help each other.

• A competitive compensation package that includes up to $10,000 in educational reimbursement each year and a significant budget for professional development.

What you'll do:

• Develop unique executive content for external and internal audiences. This work may include presentations to HHMI's board, scientists, staff, and greater scientific or philanthropic community.

• Plan, research, create, and/or review high-quality communications materials for presentations, including PowerPoint decks and other content as needed (videos, etc.).

• Lead the development of materials that support, refine, and amplify the President's voice and overall narrative, including speeches, scripts, op-eds, talking points, newsletters, letters, statements, invitations, presentation materials, and other executive communications. Lead the development of executive visibility support for other senior leaders as needed.

• Regularly track and share with Communications leadership key themes, points of emphasis, or specific concerns from the President's Office that may trigger or impact communications to employees.

• Develop and edit communications, adapting the tone and voice to match the executives' respective styles while aligning with overall communications strategy.

What you bring:

• Bachelor's degree in journalism, writing, English, or related field required; advanced degree preferred

• 7-10 years of relevant experience

• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, including significant expertise writing in the "voice" of executive leaders.

• Hands-on experience navigating speaking engagements, conferences, and presentation development to ensure consistency of the "voice" of executive leaders.

• Adaptability and resourceful navigation of a matrixed and often ambiguous work environment and ability to handle competing priorities and timelines.

• Detail oriented with excellent editing and proofreading skills.

• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work with individuals and groups at all levels of the organization.

• A quick and motivated learner with the ability to connect seemingly unrelated information and ideas.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality.

Application Instructions:

During the application process, please submit a cover letter stating how your qualifications and experience match the requirements and how your experience will support HHMI in its mission. Please also include a portfolio of your work.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our site to learn more.

Compensation Range

Pay Type:

HHMI's salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.