Lead, R&D Leadership Communications & Employee Engagement

Role Summary

The Lead, R&D Leadership Communications & Employee Engagement, Director level, will serve as a strategic partner to the President of R&D and the R&D Management Committee, driving communications and engagement programs that connect employees, amplify leadership voices, and align R&D priorities with enterprise goals. This person will craft compelling, story-driven communications and lead high-impact initiatives of strategic importance to R&D. They will also manage executive thought leadership platforms, oversee internal channels, and champion innovation through emerging technologies like AI and automation – all while fostering a culture of inclusion, empowerment, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute communications and engagement programs that connect employees to R&D priorities and leadership messaging.
• Craft story-driven communications and manage executive thought leadership platforms.
• Oversee internal channels and advocate for innovation through AI and automation.
• Foster a culture of inclusion, empowerment, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Executive communications experience required.
• Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications or public policy/public affairs preferred.
• 12+ years of professional experience with increasing responsibility.
• Strategic business partner capable of translating business information into employee/customer-friendly language.
• Experience adopting and driving AI-powered solutions.
• Healthcare/bio-pharma industry experience preferred; strong social media experience preferred.
• Creative writer skilled in producing narratives for various stakeholders; ability to work with senior executives.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to handle multiple projects; excellent organizational and multitasking skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment; team player and self-starter.

Skills

• Comprehensive understanding of the pharmaceutical industry
• Ability to present complex information clearly and confidently
• Excellent written and verbal communication; persuasive data storytelling
• Ability to distill complex issues into simple terms
• Diversity and inclusion mindset; role modeling these behaviors
• Ability to build strong partnerships across functions and geographies
• Ability to influence organizational change and drive continuous innovation

Education

• Bachelor's degree – BS/BA in Journalism, Communications or public policy/public affairs preferred

Additional Requirements

• Experience with AI-powered solutions and digital transformation preferred