David Sampson

Summary

Dynamic and results-driven communications professional with a strong background in newsroom and non-profit medical & scientific communications. Over 30 years of experience in strategic media relations, crisis communications, brand management. Expertise lies in leveraging top-tier news media relationships to create and implement successful earned media strategies. Demonstrated ability to lead high-performing teams and provide strategic counsel to drive impactful messaging. Skilled in planning and executing comprehensive media campaigns, ensuring consistent brand representation, and producing measurable results. Proficiency in crisis communications creating ability to navigate urgent issues effectively, providing timely and strategic guidance to key stakeholders. Successful management of media relations for esteemed organizations. Currently lead a team of public information officers, fostering the promotion of scientific advancements and expertise in a top-ranked medical school and health system. I have served as a content editor for both internal and external communications, ensuring compelling and impactful messaging across various channels. At the American Cancer Society, I directed medical and scientific communications, overseeing communications for research, medical affairs, epidemiology, publishing, and cancer control science. Played a key role in promoting two prominent medical journals and spearheaded project management efforts for cancer research communications, effectively influencing public attitudes about cancer and the organization. In addition to my non-profit experience, I have a solid foundation in journalism. As a Medical Producer at Dateline NBC, I managed all aspects of medical segment production, including research, writing, budgeting, and planning. I have produced breaking news segments under high-pressure, deadline-driven environments, covering significant events such as the death of Princess Diana and the Alaska Airlines flight 261 crash. With a proven track record of building strong media relationships and driving impactful communications strategies, I am well-equipped to contribute to organizations seeking a dynamic and strategic Director of Media Relations. I am fluent in conversational French and Spanish, adding a valuable international perspective to my work.