The Association for association professionals in Chicagoland

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) is seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking Director, Communications to lead our communications function into a modern, integrated, and high-impact strategic capability.

This is a pivotal moment for STS. As we elevate our brand, expand thought leadership, deepen member engagement, and modernize our channels, tools, and storytelling, this role will define how STS communicates, connects, and leads.

Job Summary 

The Director serves as both strategic leader and hands-on writer and executor—equally adept at shaping vision and delivering high-impact content. This role requires exceptional strength in executive communications, thought leadership, media relations, and storytelling. The ideal candidate is an outstanding writer who can translate complex science and data into clear, compelling narratives that inform, inspire, and drive action. 

This leader will advance STS priorities by strengthening visibility, amplifying member voices, elevating advocacy and public policy communications, and ensuring consistency, clarity, and measurable impact across all channels. 

Working cross-functionally with Marketing, Digital, Publications, Research, the National Database, Member Engagement, and external partners, the Director will build and lead a cohesive, data-driven, multi-channel communications ecosystem. This includes—but is not limited to—podcasts, newsletters, email, web, press, social media, science news, advocacy content, and member storytelling. 

Duties and Responsibilities 

• Executive Communications and Thought Leadership: Serves as senior communications strategist, advisor, and lead writer for STS Officers and senior leadership. Develop and deliver high-impact content across Presidential Updates (video, email, social), as well as interviews, articles, blogs, podcasts, and multimedia featuring governance leaders and scientific experts. Lead planning, strategy, integration, and execution of a communications editorial calendar. Partner closely with the VP, Marketing and Communications and STS Officers to develop messaging, talking points, scripts, presentations, and video content. Own the end-to-end development of a comprehensive thought leadership strategy, personally drafting Presidential communications, newsletters, scripts, blogs, podcasts, social media content that reflect a clear, authentic STS voice. Drive creation of marquee storytelling assets, including the annual highlights video and flagship podcast series (e.g. Best in Lung Cancer Science, Thinking Thoracic, Resilient Surgeon, Same Surgeon, Different Light), from concept through script and production direction. 

• Proactive Communications Strategy: Develop and lead a forward-looking communications strategy and content calendar that brings the STS story to life. Modernize communications and storytelling by engaging members and volunteers and expanding their voices across STS channels. Identify innovative formats and channels to increase reach and engagement. Establish performance metrics and regularly evaluate and refresh all communications tools and platforms, recommending enhancements, optimization, or sunset decisions. Recommend platforms for monitoring and measurement 

• Content Creation and Communications Execution: Lead and contribute to the creation of high-impact communications, including articles, newsletters, statements, talking points, FAQs, presentations, video and podcast scripts, emails, and social content. Oversee and support production of key member communications such as National Database News, The Hub, Early Career Newsletter, Advocacy Monthly, and International Connection. Partner with the Annals to communicate new science, research, and content to members. 

• Narrative, Brand, and Messaging: Partner with VP on the STS Branding Initiative to elevate and modernize the organization’s voice, messaging, visual brand identity, brand positioning, and brand architecture. Lead development and ongoing refinement of the STS narrative and message map. Ensure alignment and consistency across all communications, including new products, strategic initiatives, campaigns, and the Annual Meeting (talking points, press releases, scripts, and statements). 

• Media Relations and Reputation Management: Lead STS media relations strategy, including development and distribution of press releases for STS and The Annals, proactive media outreach, and response to press inquiries. Oversee Annual Meeting media strategy, press briefings, and coverage. Monitor media landscape and deliver insights through media listening and reporting to strengthen STS reputation and visibility. Identify issues and media trends on the horizon. 

Education and Experience 

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, journalism, or related field required; Master’s degree preferred. 
• Minimum of ten years as a communications professional is required, preferably at an association, agency, or other not-for-profit organization with volunteer leadership. Health care experience preferred.  
• Proven success developing and executing integrated, multi-faceted communication strategies. 
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience is also considered.   

 Required Skills and Abilities 

• Strategic thinker with strong execution capability; equally comfortable setting direction and writing content 
• Exceptional storyteller and writer with the ability to translate complex information into compelling narratives 
• Strong brand and messaging expertise 
• Demonstrated leadership in media relations and reputation management
• Experience across modern communications channels, including social media, website, video, podcasts, newsletters, articles, and blogs 
• Experience working with volunteer leaders and cross-functional teams 
• Data-driven mindset with focus on performance measurement and continuous improvement 
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities 
• Collaborative, curious, and solutions-oriented 
• Effective communicator across digital, social, print, video, and audio channels
• Proficient in Microsoft Office 
• Strong interpersonal skills with sound judgment and diplomacy 
• Ability to lead teams and influence stakeholders 
• Flexible and adaptable in a fast-paced environment 
• Willingness to travel as needed 
• Commitment to STS core values: Leadership, Quality, Professionalism, Innovation, Collaboration, Inclusion, and Belonging 

About The Society of Thoracic Surgeons

Founded in 1964, The Society of Thoracic Surgeons is a not-for-profit professional organization representing surgeons, researchers, and allied health care professionals who are dedicated to ensuring the best possible outcomes for surgeries of the heart, lungs, and esophagus, as well as other surgical procedures within the chest. STS is the largest cardiothoracic surgery organization in the world with more than 7,800 members in 102 countries. With a staff of 80+ dedicated employees, STS is headquartered in Chicago’s Streeterville area with another office in downtown Washington, DC. The STS staff strives for excellence while upholding the core values of Leadership, Quality, Professionalism, Innovation, Collaboration, Inclusion and Belonging. Through the STS National Database, the Society has demonstrated its leadership in collecting and analyzing surgical outcomes data in order to improve patient treatments, quality of life, and long-term health.

Connections working at The Society of Thoracic Surgeons