Job Description Summary
Job Description
We are the makers of possible
BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world. Advancing the world of health™ is our Purpose, and it’s no small feat. It takes the imagination and passion of all of us—from design and engineering to the manufacturing and marketing of our billions of MedTech products per year—to look at the impossible and find transformative solutions that turn dreams into possibilities.
We believe that the human element, across our global teams, is what allows us to continually evolve. Join us and discover an environment in which you’ll be supported to learn, grow and become your best self. Become a maker of possible with us.
Our vision for the Director, Public Relations at BD
The Director, Public Relations is a key member of the public relations and reputation management team, with primary responsibility for creating and implementing proactive communication strategies for high-impact or high-risk matters. This role will report to the Vice President of Public Relations and partner with senior leaders across communications and the business to develop and execute communication strategies, plans and materials to complement business objectives; improve customer, patient and consumer awareness and understanding of BD; drive the company’s relationships with and coverage in the media and protect the company’s reputation in crisis situations. This individual takes an active leadership role on issues management across the company, including recalls, litigation and other sensitive matters.
The role also provides guidance and expertise to the business unit communicators across the BD Medical and BD Interventional segments for any high-risk or high-impact matters, particularly media relations and issues management. The role serves as a collaborative partner to six business units to identify and execute strategic communication initiatives in support of the BD purpose to advance the world of health.
The role will align with senior leadership, including business unit and segment presidents and key functional leaders, on how to best amplify and prioritize announcements and key milestones based on the current pulse of the media.
In addition, this role will require positioning complex clinical applications and/or advancements within current and future industry trends frequently covered by the media.
Scope of Responsibility
Develop, manage and successfully implement comprehensive communication plans that support high-risk, high-impact matters such as mergers and acquisitions, major product launches, facility expansions, product recalls, litigation and other highly sensitive projects.
Act as the chief lieutenant to the Vice President of Public Relations in response to crisis management issues and managing the media.
Serve as a company spokesperson across a multitude of media outlets and other external stakeholders.
Build proactive and reactive communication strategies that align with BD business objectives, marketing strategies and overarching company priorities to ensure positive perceptions of the company and supporting BD’s overall reputation.
Act as primary communication counselor to segment presidents and business leaders and advise on communication strategy for internal and external audiences.
Develop and execute on strategic tactics that align with and complement other functions and overall BD corporate priorities, including public policy and investor relations efforts.
Position BD experts as industry thought leaders.
Maintain policies and procedures for communication material development, as well as build and maintain positive, effective relationships with internal business/product teams, external media contacts and public relations agencies.
Manage and implement internal and external special events; providing and updating information for internet/intranet sites to educate internal audiences, customers, third parties and media.
Actively manage agencies and consultants that support BD communication initiatives.
Prepare internal stakeholders with media coaching and cohesive messaging in advance of media interviews, publicly attended/viewed forums and/or employee events.
Minimum qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree required, preferably in Journalism, Public Relations or Communications.
Minimum of 15 years of relevant experience in communications, with at least five years of media relations and crisis communications experience.
Proven ability to effectively communicate with an emphasis on message development with excellent writing and editing skills.
Preferred qualifications
Experience with a publicly traded corporation is a plus.
Expertise in AP Style writing highly preferred.
Experience in medical or scientific writing is a plus.
Knowledge, skills and abilities
Proven ability to effectively communicate with an emphasis on message development, with excellent writing and editing skills.
Demonstrate creative thinking and a proactive planning and execution of communication initiatives – taking into consideration all internal and external corporate channels.
Proven ability to think independently and make sound decisions and recommendations regarding communication programs/issues/crisis communication.
Demonstrate ability to effectively handle multiple activities and respond to changing priorities with good judgment.
Critical attention to detail.
Time management skills and proven track record of handling multiple deadlines.
Experience in drafting content, managing and convening editorial calendars and a solid understanding of social media.
Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher), Adobe, PR Newswire, Media Monitoring Services, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.
Click on Apply if this sounds like you!
Why Join Us?
A career at BD means being part of a team that values your opinions and contributions and that encourages you to bring your authentic self to work. It’s also a place where we help each other be great, we do what’s right, we hold each other accountable, and learn and improve every day.
You will learn and work alongside inspirational leaders and colleagues who are equally passionate and committed to fostering an inclusive, growth-centered, and rewarding culture. You will have the opportunity to help shape the trajectory of BD while leaving a legacy at the same time. And through the organization’s investment in BD University, you will continually level up your tech skills and expertise.
To find purpose in the possibilities, we need people who can see the bigger picture, who understand the human story that underpins everything we do. We welcome people with the imagination and drive to help us reinvent the future of health. At BD, you’ll discover a culture in which you can learn, grow and thrive. And find satisfaction in doing your part to make the world a better place.
Becton, Dickinson and Company is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, disability, military eligibility or veteran status, or any other protected status.
Primary Work Location
USA NJ - Franklin Lakes
Additional Locations
Work Shift
NA (United States of America)
