Editors’ Note

Alana Weiner joined Alexandria in April 2015 as the Director of Strategic Communications. Prior to this, she was the Director of Media Affairs at the Consulate General of Israel in New York. She graduated Cum Laude from the University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in Diplomatic History in 2008. She completed her master’s degree in Government, Diplomacy and Conflict Studies, graduating cum laude from the Interdisciplinary Center in Herzliya, Israel in 2010.

When this role at Alexandria was presented to you, what excited you about it?

I was very excited to join a young, dynamic, and growing company, and to be able to work with inspiring people. The company is innovative as it brings together science, technology, and real estate, coupled with an entrepreneurial culture. In addition, the company hosts thought leadership summits and other events, convening expert decision-makers and leaders from different fields, allowing for an opportunity to create content and make a real difference within these communities.

How critical is it to have an engaged management team who understands the importance of communication?

I feel lucky to work with, and be able to learn from, such a strong management team that values communication across all levels of the company. Our CEO, Joel Marcus, is well positioned as a thought leader in real estate endeavors and in the life science and technology communities. These factors support a strong and involved communications strategy.

How broad has the coverage on Alexandria been and do you see it evolving as you move forward?

There is extensive media coverage of Alexandria’s activities as well as the inspiring activities and accomplishments of our client tenants.

Our communications strategy is continuing to evolve in many exciting and innovative ways. In this regard, there continues to be an opportunity for us to further our communications and media outreach strategies.

Is it important for your communications strategy to focus not only on the accomplishments of Alexandria but also those of your tenants?

Yes, because part of the goal here is to support the crucial life-saving work of our client tenants. Our thought leadership events, specifically the Alexandria Summit, enable our client tenants to come together and collaborate to better the lives of patients. For these reasons, it is important for us to highlight the work of Alexandria as a company and also the work and accomplishments of our client tenants. This is what makes Alexandria unique.

Have you found it to be necessary to visit the different sites in order to evaluate their communication needs?

I have been able to visit a number of our regions, and will continue to do so, as it has given me the opportunity to meet our regional teams in each of our clusters, as well as visit our campuses. These visits have given me the ability to see things firsthand and better understand our activities and the development in each cluster, as well as our communications strategy, all of which are inspiring and invaluable.

How fulfilling was it for you to join a diverse culture like the one at Alexandria?

The diversity of talent, skill set, and experience here creates a unique and innovative environment at Alexandria. Each person is encouraged to take initiative and pursue his or her passion at the company, working together to turn ideas into reality.•