Sr. Communication Specialist

Job Summary: The senior communications specialist is responsible for the development and implementation of print and electronic beneficiary marketing and education materials. Develop and manage communications plans and programs that effectively promote the TRICARE program to a complex matrix of target audiences, including military leadership, beneficiaries, congressional delegations, employees and the media. Research, write and edit communications deliverables, including newsletters, brochures and collateral materials, print and broadcast ads, audio and video scripts and website content. Manage logistics and production of beneficiary education and marketing materials and programs with minimal supervision and manages these projects as needed to achieve desired outcomes and report results. Function as a team leader and mentor to communications specialists in department.Key Responsibility Areas:
•Execute proactive communications plans and project plans to educate beneficiaries on the TRICARE program and TriWest policies, procedures and initiatives to ensure high customer satisfaction.
•Own marketing and communications programs including the TriWest website and Intranet customer service portal, beneficiary e-Newsletter, The West Report e-Newsletter, Congressional Connection, brand advertising and base newspaper articles.
•Work with internal departments, including claims, customer service, field operations, enrollment, case management, population health, behavioral health and provider services to develop effective communications materials
•Drive the development and production of communications deliverables including brochures and collateral material, fact sheets, print and electronic newsletters, direct mail pieces, advertising, website content, etc.
•Understand major milestones, develop production calendar, and implement action plans to complete assigned materials on time and within budget.•Determine scope, priority and deadlines for projects, communicating with team members, internal and external stakeholders, vendors and manager to ensure successful outcomes
•Develop key messages based on a thorough understanding of the situation and the audience•Coordinate SME, legal and stakeholder reviews of materials to ensure accuracy and effectiveness•Develop positive relationships and work closely with internal and external team members (including TMA, TRO-W, CACI, Intelligencer and Intraform) to ensure the timely development, inventory and distribution of beneficiary education materials
•Manage outside vendors as needed to ensure the production and distribution of creative, high-quality, cost-effective beneficiary education materials
•Establish methods for obtaining feedback; track, evaluate, analyze and report results of communication materials to measure their impact•Assists in developing and implementing the annual Marketing and Education plan
•Perform other duties as assignedWorking Conditions:
Favorable working conditions in a climate-controlled office space; Must be available for to cover any work shift, including possible weekend events; Works within an office environment with diverse staff members. Minimal travel required; level II IT security clearance; professional development opportunities available.Job Requirements
Employment Standards:Education and Experience:
•Bachelor’s degree in advertising, business, marketing, communications or related field
•Five years’ experience developing and managing communications plans and projects in a fast-paced marketing communications environment
•Five years of professional writing experience, including website content
•Thorough understanding of Web/e-Marketing and communications strategies and tactics
•Demonstrated success managing the development and production of marketing materials or programs in both print and electronic (Web and email) formats
•Experience managing design and production process, including working with print/web graphic designers, freelancers or agencies, printers, mailing/fulfillment houses, etc.Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
•Extremely proficient with Microsoft Office applications (including PPT, Excel, Word and Outlook)
•Outstanding writing and editing skills which reflect an ability to clarify and simplify complicated concepts into plain language
•Communicate clearly and concisely, adapting writing style for different audiences and both print and electronic media
•Thorough and diligent fact-finder, internet researcher, proofreader and editor
•Ability to effectively work cross-functionally with all levels of staff as well as external organizations to guide decisions and foster cooperation among teams
•Must work independently, with little direct supervision of day-to-day duties
•Must be able to embrace change and adjust quickly to work demands and shifting priorities
•Ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks and projects efficiently and effectively
•Strong verbal presentation and written communications skills•Ability to consistently meet strict daily and weekly deadlines•Able to delegate tasks to other communication specialists as-needed