VP Communications - Aetna

Job Description
The Vice President, Aetna Business Unit (ABU) Communications is responsible for developing and implementing an integrated communications strategy for the Aetna Business Unit including Aetna International. This individual serves on the ABU leadership team and provides strategic communications counsel to the Aetna President and leadership team. The Vice President develops proactive communications plans to address highly complex business issues and is responsible for leading all internal and external communications for the business.
 
This position requires a strong ability to partner with and influence colleagues across the enterprise and within the corporate communications function.
 

Fundamental Components
Major Responsibilities
 
 

• Develop an integrated communications strategy for the Aetna Business Unit.

• Develop communications strategies that promote, protect and support the Aetna and CVS Health brands.

• Leverage cross-industry best practices, innovative ideas and audience insight in developing communications strategies and tactics.

• Drive execution of Communications strategies from the concept/planning stages through evaluation, ensuring on-time completion of deliverables and the ability to adjust plans as needed.

• In conjunction with senior business leaders, draft key messages and ensure timely and consistent communications to colleagues regarding business priorities.

• Develop and execute a thought leadership strategy for the President of Aetna.

• Commit to ensuring that all communications are error-free, accurate, appropriately vetted and consistent with CVS Health’s core values.

• Ensure consistent messaging in all communications vehicles, using the full spectrum of solutions including in-person, electronic, print, and video. Demonstrate strategic understanding and practical application of the full suite of digital communications channels.

• Actively share new ideas and concepts that contribute to Aetna and CVS Health’s success.

• Scan the broader business, economic and social environments to generate new ideas and methods for improving performance.

• Identify and engage internal and external stakeholders whose support is needed to accomplish business goals.

• Develop a comprehensive issues management and crisis communications strategy for the business and play a lead role in the development of enterprise-wide issues management and crisis communications planning. 

• Leverage strategic communications to help shape a culture of respect and integrity; to influence others to perform at their best; and to ensure compliance with company ethics and policies.

• Build strong relationships with colleagues across the enterprise; serve as a trusted advisor.

• Manage, mentor and develop a high-performing team of communications professionals; recruit new members to the team, as needed.

• Prepare a realistic budget and manage within expectations.

Background Experience

Key Qualifications

We are seeking a top candidate with a strong and varied Communications background who can comfortably support a business unit’s internal, social and digital communications strategy, drive for results and ensure flawless execution of critical projects.

• Ability to meet deadlines and maintain confidentiality. Strong performance accountability orientation, both in terms of following through on commitments and deadlines

• Strategic and analytical thinker, with superior problem-solving skills and the ability to look into the details while keeping in mind the strategy in place
• Solid quantitative skills coupled with broad business acumen

• Excellent time management, planning and organizational skills. Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities
• Strong influencing and collaboration skills with demonstrated ability to work effectively with internal and external parties

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including sharing ideas and information across diverse audiences and creating compelling presentations
• High degree of professionalism and executive presence required to interface with executives on a regular basis
• An interest and ability to effectively deliver in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment
• Prior experience managing a cross-functional team
• Willingness to travel, as needed, and in support of business needs

Educational and Career Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in increasingly responsible communications leadership roles, ideally with corporate and agency experience
• Well-rounded communications background, including external, internal and customer communications; executive visibility and thought leadership; issues management and social/digital communications
• Experience in healthcare and financial/consumer services, ideally in both B2B and B2C environment

Education
Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Percent of Travel Required
25 - 50%