The Healthcare Communications Association is launching a ‘University Ambassador's Programme' in the next couple of weeks. The HCA will ask members to provide a volunteer to go into universities to talk about healthcare communications as a potential career path.
They will be provided with materials by the HCA including a presentation, aimed at communicating the benefits of working in the industry.
The programme is part of a bigger strategy called Talent Search 2012, which aims to grow the number of account managers in the industry over the next few years.
Just Health PR joint MD Jennie Talman, who is a chair of the HCA recruitment group, said: ‘Universities have a low level of awareness of healthcare as a career and we are aiming to change this with these initiatives.'
Separately, Ogilvy Health PR hosted a recruitment event earlier this week, organised by VMA Selection.
Shire Hall founder Margot James spoke at the event and said: ‘I think there is a fear of science and the intellectual demands of the job that deter people from working in the healthcare PR industry.'
She added: ‘A career in this sector can be very interesting, challenging, and there is always something new. It also involves working indirectly for an industry which is crucial to this country's future.'
VMA aims to repeat the event in the New Year.
Additionally, Red Door Communications MD Catherine Warne is planning to speak at The Girls' Schools Association to talk about potential career paths in the healthcare comms industry.
