Director of Public Relations & External Affairs

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska; Omaha (NE); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska is seeking a seasoned Communications leader to develop and manage external communications and public relations strategy. You will lead media relations, coordinate press releases, and align messaging with leadership, Brand, and government affairs to advance the organization's priorities.

In this role you will collaborate across departments, support the Foundation, and ensure timely, accurate communications that protect reputation while driving public trust

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or related field.
• Minimum six years of progressively responsible experience in public relations, external communications, media relations, or related field.
• Experience developing PR strategies, managing media relationships, and coordinating external communications.
• Experience partnering with senior leadership, cross-functional teams, and external agencies.
• Experience supporting government affairs, legislative communications, community relations, or nonprofit/Foundation initiatives preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and coordination of public relations strategy and calendar in partnership with leadership, Brand, and external agency partners.
• Serve as the primary owner of media relationships, cultivating relationships with journalists and outlets.
• Oversee development, review, and distribution of press releases, media statements, and external communications.
• Identify proactive media opportunities and messaging strategies to strengthen reputation and visibility.
• Lead and manage crisis communications with executive counsel and stakeholder coordination.
• Collaborate with Brand, Government Affairs, and Foundation to align external messaging with priorities.
• Manage PR calendar, external engagements, and coordination with external agencies.

Skills

Public relations

Media relations

External communications

Stakeholder engagement

Crisis communications

Strategic planning

Executive communications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or related field

Job description

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska is seeking a seasoned Communications leader to develop and manage external communications and public relations strategy. You will lead media relations, coordinate press releases, and align messaging with leadership, Brand, and government affairs to advance the organization's priorities.

In this role you will collaborate across departments, support the Foundation, and ensure timely, accurate communications that protect reputation while driving public trust