Director of Scientific Communications and Engagement

Are you an effective and creative communicator? Do you enjoy working with a diverse range of people? Are you passionate about the science? 

This is a fantastic opportunity to lead the internal and external science engagement and communications strategy for a global multi-site function covering Late Development Oncology and the Chief Medical Office (LDO & CMO).  Working with a diverse set of people including medical, scientists, leaders and corporate affairs you will use proven and innovative mechanisms to bring our strategy and portfolio to life and inspire the LDO & CMO communities as we work towards achieving our bold ambition 2030. Through innovative and impactful communications the successful candidate will contribute to our ambition of building a culture of learning and transparency.

This critical role leads the internal and external science engagement and communications strategy for LDO, a global multi-site function of ~2000 people, and CMO, ~800 people.  This role will have 4 direct reports, 3 who will enable delivery of a cohesive strategy across the LDO organisation, and 1 who will enable delivery for CMO. 

This role will act as a key partner and point of contact for the SVP of LDO at AstraZeneca, providing dedicated strategic communications and support to this innovative, progressive and highly visible leader.  

Working with a diverse range of stakeholders, you will develop an exciting internal and external communications agenda featuring innovative solutions to enhance employee engagement, KEE interest and tell the LDO & CMO stories. You will partner with Global corporate affairs to align and shape science communications that enhance the external reputation of LDO and CMO.  

Typical Accountabilities:

• Define and implement the internal and external science communications and engagement strategy for LDO & CMO working closely with diverse stakeholders across AstraZeneca including the Senior Vice President, Business Planning & Operations and Transformation Lead 

• Responsible for the overarching internal editorial calendar and messaging to raise the visibility of LDO & CMO achievements (e.g. milestones) and to communicate our scorecard 

• Provides strategic input into our broader LDO & CMO internal communications strategy (events, awards) and supports direct reports with delivery against these plans 

• Works directly with the SVP of LDO and leadership team to define the strategic focus and develop content for internal and external engagements (e.g. external investigator scientific presentations and Town Hall meetings) 

• Leads the strategy for enhancing engagement of LDO & CMO leaders internally 

• Drives innovative solutions (including digital media) to communicate our scorecard and scientific priorities and bring the LDO & CMO science to life 

• Overall accountable for delivery of key business reports to capture scientific achievements / deliverables 

• Partners with Oncology Global corporate affairs to shape external communications to further enhance the external scientific reputation of LDO & CMO 

• Provides direction, guidance and development to 4 direct reports 

Essential requirements:

• Minimum BSc in life sciences or communications or related field

• Minimum 8+ years of experience in the Scientific Communications field

• Experience in line management supporting a team

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English 

• Ability to clearly articulate complex scientific data into effective and compelling communication that is appropriate for the level of audience 

• Broad knowledge of the pharmaceutical drug discovery and development process 

• Strong influencing, networking and team working skills 

• A proven track record of delivering tasks in a timely manner 
  

Desirable requirements:

• MSc or PhD in Life science is strongly preferred  

• Experience in working in a complex/matrixed environment, fast paced and high performing team 

• Strong scientific in-dept knowledge in the Oncology field or related areas is preferred

Working at AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, innovation-driven biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. We’re committed to being a Great Place to Work—empowering people to push the boundaries of science in an inclusive culture that champions diversity, collaboration, and continuous learning.

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $146,716.80 - $220,075.20 USD Annual (80% - 120%). Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

So, what’s next? 

Are you already imagining yourself joining our team? Good, because we can’t wait to hear from you. 

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