Senior Vice President, Public Relations (Health)

The Senior Vice President, Health is a strategic leadership role designed for a seasoned communications professional with deep expertise in health PR. This role is critical in driving growth, client success, and operational excellence within Highwire's dynamic, award-winning environment. Reporting to agency leadership, the SVP will lead high-impact client engagements across the health sector, spearhead business development, and mentor account teams to exceed client expectations while aligning with Highwire's core values.

The ideal candidate has 13+ years of progressive experience, a proven track record managing large client portfolios across health communications sectors - including life sciences, biotech, pharma, digital health, and medtech - and the ability to inspire teams and influence clients at the highest levels.

If you are ready to make a meaningful impact at a thriving agency, this role offers a unique opportunity to lead, innovate, and grow alongside some of the brightest talent in health communications.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as senior strategic counsel for clients with account revenue oversight 
• Develop and execute innovative, results-driven communications strategies that drive measurable business outcomes and elevate client brands within the health sector.
• Build and maintain trusted relationships with C-suite executives, medical affairs leaders, and senior stakeholders at client organizations, acting as a key strategic advisor.
• Lead Key Opinion Leader engagement strategies that amplify scientific credibility and support disease awareness, product launches, and corporate reputation programs.
• Develop and oversee patient-centric communications campaigns, health equity narratives, and disease awareness initiatives that resonate with diverse audiences.
• Navigate FDA/regulatory communications environments with sound judgment, ensuring all messaging is strategically compelling and appropriately compliant.
• Lead new business development efforts by identifying opportunities within existing accounts and spearheading pitches for new clients aligned with agency growth targets.
• Collaborate closely with integrated teams to deliver seamless multi-channel campaigns leveraging traditional PR, digital, social media, and health influencer engagement.
• Translate complex clinical data, scientific research, and medical information into clear, compelling narratives for lay, patient, and professional audiences.
• Promote a culture of excellence and continuous improvement, mentoring, coaching, and developing account teams to maximize their potential.
• Oversee staff performance management including setting objectives, monitoring development, and conducting performance reviews.
• Act as a visible leader representing Highwire Health and its clients at industry events, medical conferences, and health sector forums to enhance networking and business development.
• Manage client profitability by closely monitoring billability, resource allocation, and budget adherence.
• Contribute to agency infrastructure initiatives that support operational efficiency, client service excellence, and talent development.
• Drive a key agency cornerstone such as client service excellence, revenue growth, or operational improvements.
• Collaborate with finance and operations teams as needed to manage budgets related to your accounts or client programs.

Success Factors

• Minimum 13 years of experience in communications, with a focus on health PR - including life sciences, biotech, pharma, digital health, or medtech - with at least 5 years in an executive leadership role.
• Proven success in developing and nurturing senior client relationships and managing complex, multi-stakeholder accounts within regulated health and science environments.
• Exceptional media relations skills with a strong, established network of top-tier reporters and editors across health trade, consumer health, science, and medical press.
• Demonstrated excellence in translating complex clinical and scientific data into strategic storytelling, content development, and media placements across print, online, and social platforms.
• Experience leading integrated campaigns that combine traditional health PR with digital, social, and health influencer strategies.
• Deep familiarity with FDA/regulatory communications considerations and the ability to counsel clients on sensitive, high-stakes communications challenges.
• Demonstrated experience with patient advocacy engagement, health equity communications, and disease awareness program development.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills with a collaborative management style.
• Outstanding judgment, problem-solving ability, and capacity to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Experience establishing and tracking measurement and ROI for health communications programs.
• Passion for fostering a culture that embraces Highwire's values of Fierce Distinction and Growth Mindset, and a commitment to DIBs (Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging) in all aspects of the role.

The salary range for this position is $175,000 to $249,000, with the final offer based on a combination of factors, including education, relevant experience, skills, prior training, internal equity, and local geographic market data. This role also includes a competitive benefits package with medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) matching, generous paid time off, and additional perks designed to support your overall well-being and growth. #LI-Hybrid

About Highwire

Highwire is a strategic marketing communications agency at the intersection of innovation and industry. We partner with ambitious companies and established brands to navigate complexity, lead markets, and grow with purpose. With integrated expertise in strategic marketing and communications, corporate reputation, creative, and insights, we cut through the noise to deliver bold ideas and measurable impact across B2B technology, healthcare, cybersecurity, energy, professional and financial services, and more.

At Highwire, we believe that storytelling fuels transformation. We know that the most impactful stories represent all voices and perspectives. As a values-driven agency, we foster an inclusive environment where everyone-regardless of age, race/ethnicity, size, shape, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion and different abilities-can feel safe, celebrated and worthy.

We ensure that every Highwire Walker has the requisite support to soar in their careers. Our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging is foundational and embedded in our business and culture. We aspire to change our industry and build a better future for all.

Our people-first culture is driven by four core values:

• Team Empowerment
• Growth Mindset
• Inclusion Always
• Fierce Distinction

We’re looking for individuals with big ideas, strong opinions, and the energy to bring them to life. If you thrive in an environment that values personal accountability, high standards, and boundless motivation, this is the opportunity for you. Be part of our award-winning culture and contribute to an exciting and growing business where you can make a real impact.

Highwire. Above all.

Our people-first culture is reflected in the meaningful benefits, flexibility, and support we offer:

• Competitive salary with merit-based opportunities for growth
• Flexible hybrid work model tailored to your schedule and lifestyle
• Generous vacation policy, including extended summer and winter breaks
• Early log-off on Fridays through our Empower Hours program
• 401(k) plan with employer matching
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus FSA options
• Paid parental leave benefits
• Commuter benefits
• Annual Growth Mindset stipend for books, events, or learning experiences
• Monthly technology reimbursement
• Wellness benefit program for mental and physical health
• 501c3 donation matching program
• Mentorship and ongoing professional development opportunities
• Monthly recognition and team celebrations
• Employee referral and new business referral bonuses
• Quarterly Highwire events and team gatherings
• Dog-friendly office environment
• A supportive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace where you can grow and do your best work

Location & Work Environment

Highwire offers both remote and hybrid work options, depending on where you live.

Hybrid: Candidates located within commuting distance of our New York, NY or San Francisco, CA offices follow a hybrid schedule, with three in-office days per week.

Remote: We hire for fully remote roles in the following states: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Washington, D.C..

Please note: We are only able to consider candidates who reside in one of the locations listed above at the time of hire.

Join the Highwire team

If you’re inspired by the opportunity to shape meaningful stories and grow alongside a team that values innovation, accountability, and inclusion, apply below to start the conversation.

Please note: This posting may be used to build our talent pipeline, connect with top professionals in the industry, or extend reach across multiple locations. We welcome all interested candidates to apply and explore opportunities at Highwire!