Vice President, Optum External Communications

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people live healthier lives. The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, data and resources they need to feel their best. Here, you will find a culture guided by inclusion, talented peers, comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities. Come make an impact on the communities we serve as you help us advance health optimization on a global scale. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together.

The VP of External Communications will lead the strategy and execution of Optum’s external communication efforts. This senior leader will develop and manage communication initiatives that enhance the company’s brand image, engage stakeholders, and support business objectives. As a VP, this role will report to the Optum Chief Communications Officer (CCO) and will work closely with and travel for the Optum CEO on external speaking engagements, lead new campaign work in partnership with our brand and consumer teams and oversee our self-publishing platform (newsroom) and social media efforts as a company. 

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the Optum external communications team, directing efforts to promote the company’s brand and reputation. Use external analytics to drive approach
• Develop and implement comprehensive external communication strategies, which are separate and distinct from UHG strategies, that align with the company’s vision and goals
• Build and oversee implementation of a newsroom capability and strategy (see separate document), including the development and hiring of a new team (approved by Patrick)
• Lead executive external visibility strategy and execution for Patrick Conway and other top Optum leaders, including traveling with Patrick as needed for speaking events
• Serve as a media spokesperson for the company, handling media inquiries and representing the company at public events. Coordinate with UHG and UHC comms leaders as appropriate
• Collaborate with senior leadership to craft and disseminate key messages for external audiences on a variety of issues and topics, including working with external affairs on policy needs
• Oversee team of content creators for newsroom, press releases, social media posts, and external speeches, and presentations
• Design enterprise communications social media strategy and ensure consistent execution
• Coordinate with the marketing and consumer teams to ensure cohesive and impactful brand and consumer campaign messaging
• Manage external crisis communications to address potential issues swiftly and effectively
• Monitor and analyze media coverage and public perception, using insights to refine communication strategies
• Provide guidance and training to executives on effective communication practices
• Support executive readiness for earnings reports, investor conference and financial communications
• Lead and develop a team of communication professionals and outside agencies

You’ll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field; or equivalent experience
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in external communications or public relations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role
• Experience developing a corporate newsroom
• Proficiency in using digital and social media platforms for corporate communication
• Proven track record of developing and executing successful communication strategies
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Solid leadership and team management abilities
• Experience in crisis communication and media relations
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with senior leadership
• Strategic thinker with the ability to adapt to changing environments

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree preferred in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field
• Experience at a consumer brand

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you’ll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The salary for this role will range from $196,600 to $337,100 annually based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.

At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone–of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location and income–deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes — an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.

UnitedHealth Group is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.

UnitedHealth Group is a drug – free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.