Marketing and Communications Lead

Pittsburgh Life Sciences Alliance (PLSA) is dedicated to making greater Pittsburgh a global life sciences leader and economic engine at the intersection of the region's unique clinical, research, manufacturing, and technology strengths. PLSA is seeking a visionary 
Marketing and Communications Lead

to develop and execute comprehensive marketing, communications, and brand strategies that advance the mission of the Pittsburgh Life Sciences Alliance.

Job Purpose:

The Marketing and Communications Lead will oversee all aspects of brand presence, content creation, digital communications, and strategic storytelling to strengthen engagement across the regional and national life sciences community. Reporting to senior leadership, the Marketing and Communications Lead will collaborate closely with internal teams and a broad network of external partners to elevate Pittsburgh's reputation as a leading hub for life sciences innovation. The ideal candidate brings both creative and strategic expertise, with the ability to translate complex initiatives into compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.

Principal (Essential) Duties:

Brand & Marketing Strategy

• Lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive marketing and communications strategy that enhances PLSA's brand visibility and advances organizational goals.
• Lead the planning, prioritization, and execution of integrated marketing initiatives, including strategic planning, content development, and campaign execution, in alignment with PLSA's strategic vision.
• Manage the evolution, application, and consistency of PLSA's brand across all channels, ensuring a strong and cohesive presence.
• Lead development of core organizational collateral, presentations, messaging tools, and ecosystem-facing materials that support strategic communication priorities.
• Strategically direct paid and organic digital and social media marketing efforts to support awareness and engagement.

Content, Communications & Digital Presence

• Direct all PLSA communications channels, including website, email, social media, and digital storytelling.
• Lead efforts to optimize and update website content using a content management system (Webflow experience preferred).
• Develop high-quality written and visual content to support program launches, ecosystem storytelling, and stakeholder engagement.
• Monitor and analyze marketing performance metrics to refine strategies and improve ROI across channels.
• Manage editorial calendars and ensure timely, consistent content delivery across platforms.

Ecosystem Engagement & Event Support

• Collaborate with private sector, public agencies, nonprofits, and ecosystem partners to align and amplify complementary marketing initiatives.
• Oversee the development and delivery of outstanding events, including owned programs and PLSA participation in major life sciences conferences.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external partners to support communications for senior leaders and stakeholders.

Budget & Operational Management

• Manage the annual marketing and communications budget and ensure adherence to financial guidelines.
• Implement and refine effective project management, documentation, and workflow processes to support timely and efficient execution.

PLSA offers a flexible, hybrid work environment in which team members generally work onsite two days per week.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Experience managing brand identity and executing integrated marketing campaigns.
• Proficiency in digital marketing, including social media, paid advertising, and analytics.
• Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
• Strong writing, content development, and presentation design skills.
• Ability to manage website content via a content management system; Webflow experience a plus.
• Skilled in interpreting data to guide strategy and decision-making.
• Demonstrated ability to work across diverse stakeholder groups and coalitions.
• High degree of independence, adaptability, and ability to operate in a fast-paced environment.
• Curiosity and the ability to quickly learn complex or technical subject matter.
• Knowledge of public sector, economic development, or policy environments preferred.

Experience / Education Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, public relations, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in marketing, brand management, or communications (agency or in-house).
• Experience in life sciences, healthcare technology, innovation economy, or economic development strongly preferred.
• Strong written and visual storytelling abilities.
• Experience with content management systems and digital communication tools.
• Experience managing staff and vendors to deliver excellent campaigns with demonstrable business impact