Head of Public Relations & External Affairs

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska; Nebraska; Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska is seeking a senior-level communications professional to lead external communications and public relations initiatives. You will partner with leadership, Brand, Government Affairs, and external agencies to shape and execute a comprehensive PR plan that strengthens brand reputation and public trust.

The role manages media relations, press messaging, and crisis communications while aligning with legislative priorities and Foundation initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of six years of progressively responsible experience in public relations, external communications, media relations, or a related field.
• Experience developing public relations strategies and coordinating external communications initiatives.
• Experience partnering with senior leadership, cross-functional teams, and external agencies.
• Experience supporting government affairs, legislative communications, community relations, or nonprofit/Foundation initiatives preferred.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted for this requirement.
• The ability to meet or exceed the attendance and timeliness requirements of their departments.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and coordination of public relations strategy and calendar with leadership, Brand, and external agency partners.
• Own media relationships with journalists, media outlets and external stakeholders.
• Oversee press releases, statements, announcements, and external communications.
• Identify proactive media opportunities and craft messaging to boost reputation and visibility.
• Lead crisis communications, including planning, executive counsel, and timely messaging.
• Partner with Brand and external agency to align PR with broader campaigns and messaging.
• Collaborate with Government Affairs to align external communications with legislative priorities.
• Build relationships with state government stakeholders to support engagement and policy priorities.
• Support the Foundation with communications that promote its mission and community partnerships.
• Ensure external messaging is consistent, timely and aligned with business objectives.

Skills

Public relations

Media relations

Strategic communication

Crisis communications

Stakeholder engagement

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

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 senior-level communications professional to lead external communications and public relations initiatives. You will partner with leadership, Brand, Government Affairs, and external agencies to shape and execute a comprehensive PR plan that strengthens brand reputation and public trust.

The role manages media relations, press messaging, and crisis communications while aligning with legislative priorities and Foundation initiatives.