Communications Associate – Global Health Strategies

Posted: February 2013

Communications Associate (Beijing)

About the Position:

GHS’ Beijing office is looking to hire an Associate to support communications, research and policy projects and the development of GHS’ broader China program. This position will provide a unique opportunity to help shape GHS’ growth in China and serve as an interface between domestic and international global health stakeholders.

The Associate candidate should possess excellent diplomatic, client relations and written and oral communications skills in both English and Chinese (Mandarin) and have experience in cross-cultural organizations. Experience working on relevant global health issues such as childhood immunization or infectious diseases, or knowledge of China’s international health and development policies, are considered a plus. The Associate will be based in Beijing and report to GHS’ Vice President in China, while working in close coordination with GHS’ headquarters in New York and country offices in New Delhi and Rio de Janeiro.

Communications/Media Relations:

GHS provides full-spectrum communications services for its clients. The Associate will spend a significant amount of his/her time on communications and media relations, especially gaining a thorough understanding of the global health and science media landscape and building media relations skills. The Associate will be expected to identify trends, opportunities and build relationships with key reporters in China, East and Southeast Asia. Additionally, the Associate is responsible for developing communications strategies for current and potential clients, drafting key communications documents (press releases, fact sheets, speeches, Q and A’s), editing communications materials, liaising with journalists to ensure and guide coverage of key global health issues, and developing a documented network of media contacts.

Specific responsibilities for the Associate will include:

· Supports a team of senior staff in China and New York on GHS client deliverables

· Assists in drafting a wide range of communications and advocacy materials including press releases, FAQs, talking points, key messages, strategy memos and presentations

· Contributes to the development of creative content and multimedia communications materials

· Conducts research on Chinese media landscape and begin building relationships with Chinese and international health and science journalists

· Researches health policies, key players and global health funding opportunities within China

· Supports the development of memos and reports on China’s engagement in global health and possible opportunities to build new collaborations

· Works closely with GHS senior staff to support outreach to Chinese stakeholders and media

· Identifies invitees and develop agendas, presentations and materials for stakeholder meetings or other events

· Manage the logistics of events and staff trips

· Contributes to discussions around new business opportunities

· Provides administrative support to GHS’ China team, including coordinating calls and various logistics among GHS offices

Required Qualifications:

GHS is seeking a self-starter capable of quickly getting up to speed on GHS’s work and rapidly assuming increasing levels of responsibility. A passion for understanding global public health issues and trends is essential for this position. The individual must be well-organized and detail-oriented, capable of independently producing accurate documents quickly when required, and comfortable in a fast-paced international environment. Individuals with previous media relations experience will be prioritized.

In addition, the individual should possess the following traits:

· B.A. in communications, public relations, journalism, public health or related field

· 1-2 years of related work experience

· Fluency in Chinese (Mandarin) and English

· Strong writing and editing skills

· Knowledge of, or demonstrated interest in global health

· Strong research skills

· Project management experience

· Experience working in cross-cultural settings

· Strong attention to detail

· Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding environment

· Strong initiative, and ability to work proactively with minimal supervision

· Availability to work nights and weekends when necessary

· Willingness to travel within China, and internationally

· Proficiency using Microsoft Office (including Word, Excel, Powerpoint) and social media platforms such as Weibo and Kaixin; Photoshop or other image processing software is a plus

Additional Qualifications:

· Knowledge of global health and/or the Chinese vaccine and pharmaceutical industry

· Experience working in a communications, PR or consulting firm

· M.A. in related field

How to Apply:

Please send all applications to jobschina (at) globalhealthstrategies.com. Please write “Beijing Communications Associate” in the subject line and include a resume, cover letter and two writing samples (one in English, one in Chinese). Applications without a cover letter will not be considered. Due to the high volume of expected applicants, only those meeting GHS requirements will be contacted. Please note that no telephone or email inquiries will be entertained.

You may also choose to indicate scores from any Standardized English Test (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS, or TOEIC).

GHS is an equal opportunity employer and encourages people of diverse backgrounds to apply.