Manager, Marketing and Communications - BRIDGES Engine

Job Description

Job Description

Manager, Marketing and Communications, BRIDGES EngineTell the Story of Biobased Innovation and Rural Economic DevelopmentLocation: Huntsville, AlabamaEmployment Type: Full-time | ExemptThe OpportunityEvery transformative movement needs a powerful storyteller. As Manager of Marketing and Communications for the BRIDGES NSF Engine, you'll be the voice amplifying one of the most ambitious regional innovation initiatives in America, translating cutting-edge science, groundbreaking partnerships, and real-world impact into compelling narratives that inspire researchers, energize industry leaders, engage communities, and attract the world's attention.This isn't just communications work. You'll be a strategic partner shaping how the world understands the sustainable biobased economy. You'll craft the stories that connect plant-based innovation to rural economic opportunity, translate complex biotechnology into human terms, and build the narrative momentum that turns vision into movement. From executive messaging to digital campaigns, from thought leadership to community engagement, you'll ensure that BRIDGES Engine's transformative potential reaches every stakeholder who needs to hear it. What You'll DoStrategic Communication & StorytellingDevelop and implement integrated communication strategies aligned with BRIDGES Engine priorities and NSF Engine objectivesTranslate groundbreaking scientific discoveries, partnerships, and commercialization milestones into compelling, clear narratives for diverse audiencesCreate messaging frameworks that unite researchers, industry partners, policymakers, rural communities, and the public around shared visionPosition BRIDGES Engine as a national leader in sustainable biobased manufacturing innovation and regional economic developmentTell the human stories behind the science, showcasing how plant-based technologies drive opportunity, prosperity, and sustainabilityContent Creation & Digital ExcellenceDevelop high-quality written content including press releases, social media content, articles, thought leadership pieces, case studies, and web materialsCreate engaging multimedia content (video, graphics, infographics) that bring innovation to lifeManage digital platforms and channels to maximize reach and engagement across stakeholdersUse analytics to evaluate performance and continuously improve messaging effectivenessStay current with communications trends and emerging platforms to keep BRIDGES Engine at the forefrontInternal & External EngagementSupport internal communication channels-employee updates, newsletters, team messaging-that strengthen culture and alignment across teamsAssist executive leadership with presentations, remarks, speeches, and materials for key eventsDevelop and execute outreach campaigns targeting donors, academic partners, industry collaborators, policymakers, and the publicCultivate relationships with media outlets, journalists, and thought leaders to amplify BRIDGES Engine's visibilityManage media inquiries and coordinate press coverage that showcases impact and innovationEvent & Project CoordinationCollaborate on communication strategies for major events (workshops, showcases, industry forums, and stakeholder gatherings)Develop event messaging, promotional materials, and audience engagement strategiesManage vendor relationships and coordinate deliverables for communications-related projectsTrack budgets, timelines, and performance metrics for communications initiativesEnsure seamless integration of messaging across all event touchpointsBrand & Reputation ManagementMaintain consistency in institutional voice and visual identity across all communicationsMonitor and respond to stakeholder feedback and community sentimentProactively manage communications to build trust and credibility with all stakeholder groupsSupport reputation-building initiatives that position HudsonAlpha and BRIDGES Engine as trusted innovation leaders About YouExperience & Education:Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, English, or related field; Experience in communications, public relations, digital media, or related rolesDemonstrated experience in science, research, biotechnology, nonprofit, or innovation-driven environmentsProven ability to lead cross-functional projects and manage multiple competing prioritiesTrack record of developing and executing strategic communications that drive engagement and impactEssential Skills & Competencies:Exceptional writing and editing abilities with talent for translating complex information into clear, engaging narrativesStrategic thinker who understands how communication drives organizational and mission successProficiency in digital content management systems, video editing, and visual communication toolsStrong project management, organizational, and time-management skillsAbility to manage relationships and collaborate effectively across diverse teams and disciplinesExcellent communication skills-both verbal and writtenPoise, discretion, and professionalism in handling sensitive or confidential informationCompetence with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and relevant creative or analytics softwareProven ability to thrive under pressure and adapt to fast-paced, evolving prioritiesPassion for translating science into impact and communicating innovation to the world Why BRIDGES Engine? Why HudsonAlpha?HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology is a leading nonprofit research institute leveraging genomics to improve human health, strengthen global food systems, and drive sustainable economic growth. Our 150-acre Huntsville campus, located in one of the world's premier science and technology communities, unites world-class scientists, educators, and 45+ innovative life science companies in a collaborative ecosystem where discovery becomes impact.With U.S. National Science Foundation Engine funding, BRIDGES represents the next frontier: a bold initiative to build a sustainable biobased economy that transforms rural communities and opens entirely new markets and industries.This isn't incremental change, it's ecosystem-building at scale. You'll work alongside visionary leaders, innovative companies, and passionate researchers united by a common mission: to prove that biotechnology can drive prosperity, sustainability, and opportunity for entire regions. Physical & Work EnvironmentPrimarily on-site position with potential for flexible or remote work as approved by leadershipDynamic office and event settings with frequent engagement across multiple locationsTravel for conferences, convenings, media events, and stakeholder gatheringsOccasional evening or weekend hours for events, deadlines, and time-sensitive projectsAbility to remain in a stationary position for prolonged periods during content creation and strategy work Join UsHelp shape the narrative of sustainable innovation. Tell stories that matter. Amplify voices that inspire change. Drive visibility and impact at scale.Apply now and become part of the BRIDGES Engine story.