Head of Communications

Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council – Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur

An experienced communications professional, storyteller and brand/experience builder. The incumbent will be responsible for leading the communications unit in amplifying the “Malaysia Healthcare” brand messaging and narratives as a top-of-mind experience to position Malaysia as the Premium Medical Tourism destination.

Nurturing a strong industry network with industry stakeholders and develop an enviable corporate image by developing and executing effective communication and media relations programmes. Reporting to Vice President of Marketing and Communications, he/she sets the communications strategies, to create compelling and impactful communications across all channels.

He/ She will be responsible to lead and manage the following units:

• Public Relations and Media Content Communications
• Brand, Digital, Social Media and Creative Communications

Role Description:

• Oversee the overall strategy and operations for the Communications Unit
• Oversee management of all public-facing communications funnels including media, website and social media.
• Oversee and manage department budget planning.
• Build and nurture a team towards excellence.
• Ensure communication strategy is consistent and reflects the organisation’s strategic vision.
• Develop media relations strategy, seeking high-level placements in print, broadcast and online media.
• Coordinate all public relations activities.
• Direct social media team to engage audiences across traditional and new media.
• Leverage existing media relationships and cultivate new contacts within business and industry media.
• Manage media inquiries and interview requests.
• Document presence of companies at events, conferences, and speaking engagements.
• Advocate on behalf of the company brand with external stakeholders and the media across all communication channels and vehicles.
• Create content for press releases, by-line articles and keynote presentations.
• Monitor, analyse and communicate PR results on a quarterly basis.
• Evaluate opportunities for partnerships, sponsorships and advertising on an ongoing basis.
• Build relationships with thought leaders to grow industry awareness.
• Ensure consistent framing of messages.

Requirement:

The ideal candidate will have at least 15-18 years of experience in public relations, corporate communications, content creation, brand communications and creative development. He/ She must have a growth mindset, be creative and an excellent communicator within an expanding environment that is objective-driven, intense, results-driven and people-oriented. The individual must:

• Hold a Degree or its equivalent.
• Have experience in the healthcare industry.
• Have strong experience in communications direction with a proven track record of successful publicity and brand campaigns.
• Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Bahasa Malaysia; knowledge in other languages will be an added advantage.
• Be a strategic thinker, able to identify long-term opportunities and trends.
• Be a creative thinker, able to navigate through critical problems.
• Possess commendable communication, public speaking, and strong analytical skills.
• Be detail-oriented, able to work independently and good in problem-solving skills.
• Possess excellent research and analytical skills.
• Possess professional judgment and discretion that comes from years of experience in the field.
• Be familiar with the latest trends, technologies and methodologies in the relevant fields.
• Be a confident communicator and presenter with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Have a full understanding of media needs and media relationships.
• Be self-motivated with a positive and professional approach to management.
• Have experience in acting as a company spokesperson; comfortable and skilled in both broadcast and print media interviews.