A global pharmaceutical company are currently seeking a Policy & External Affairs Manager to lead and deliver the company’s public affairs strategy across priority brands and strategic projects, as well as co-ordinating engagement with public policy and political stakeholders.
This is a newly created role with a company that works to distinguish itself from ‘Big Pharma’ institutions. The post-holder will work across the business to develop an in-depth understanding of branding and commercial priorities and then seek to develop relationships with policy-makers and other relevant stakeholders in order to influence patient-focussed outcomes whilst developing a profile as a thought-leader.
Responsibilities include
- Work across the business to create an integrated public affairs strategy which is aligned to UK’s strategic brand goals;
- Lead on development of annual strategic and operational plans for public affairs for the brand portfolio and Market Access;
- Represent UK policy and advocacy interests with the European Leadership Team;
- Lead the development of the company’s policy and positions to respond to consultation opportunities and participate in policy debates;
- Lead external engagement with policy, political, industry and patient group stakeholders providing insights to the company and communicating appropriate messages;
- Develop organisational and brand policy positions to support the business and shape the external healthcare environment.
Required knowledge, skills and experience
The company is seeking a seasoned public affairs practitioner with experience from within the healthcare/ pharmaceutical industry. Candidates don’t necessarily have to demonstrate public affairs experience from exclusively within the pharmaceutical/healthcare industry. Candidates should also be able to demonstrate the following:
- Demonstrable experience working in public affairs in-house or consultancy, with a proven track record of development and delivery of public affairs strategies;
- Excellent understanding of UK health systems, policy and political environments, including devolved administrations;
- Excellent knowledge and experience of working with the Health and social care environment and organisations at a national and regional level;
- Good understanding of UK pharmaceutical industry, commercial experience ideal;
- Understanding of UK environment in the context of the EU political, policy and HTA environment;
- Able to provide strategic counsel, often under pressure, to senior leaders on policy and external affairs issues.