Associate Director, Global Communications

Job Description
The role of Associate Director, Global Oncology Communications is a unique opportunity to join our company, a recognized leader in oncology, as a key member of the Global Oncology Communications team. The role will support the creation and implementation of external communications strategies, plans, and tactics related to our company’s broad oncology portfolio and pipeline assets. The candidate selected for this role will work under the guidance of the Director, Global Oncology Communications in a fast‑paced and ever‑changing environment.

The position is based in Rahway, NJ (USA) or Upper Gwynedd, PA (USA), with a hybrid setup of three days in‑office and two days remote.

Primary Responsibilities

Develop and implement integrated communications activities in support of our company’s oncology in‑line products and Phase 3 pipeline assets, including one key external collaboration; heavy emphasis on data milestone communications (data releases, medical meeting communications) and regulatory milestones and approvals.

Drive integrated editorial strategy to raise external awareness of late‑stage oncology pipeline assets – through meaningful, targeted communication outreach including social and digital channels that enhance the reputation of our Company. Include appropriate metrics and leverage with key audiences.

Identify, develop and support unique storylines, media and thought‑leadership opportunities to showcase our late‑stage oncology pipeline assets that complement our oncology narrative with key external stakeholders.

Prepare and brief oncology leaders on message delivery, media engagement and external speaking opportunities.

Develop and communicate strategies, programs and materials for use by our company’s regions and subsidiaries worldwide; advise regions and subsidiaries on franchise and product communications issues.

Serve as a liaison to third‑party groups (including advocacy organizations) and external experts (including researchers) and to trade and local news media.

Manage a high volume of materials (press releases, social media content, core response documents, etc.) through medical and legal review processes, developing strong and collaborative relationships with review boards.

Work directly with public relations agencies and help manage related budgets.

Required Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism or a life sciences field.

Minimum five years’ experience in communications or public relations; healthcare and pharmaceutical experience at a global publicly traded company preferred.

Product communications experience – including managing communications for a high volume of data and regulatory milestones; product launch experience highly desirable.

Deep understanding of the biopharmaceutical industry, media landscape and strong business and financial acumen.

Strong executive presence, excellent verbal and written communications skills and ability to work under tight deadlines with great attention to detail.

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision as well as collaborate within a matrixed organization.

Keen eye for detail, with demonstrated experience managing a high volume of communications through a medical/legal review board.

Ability to handle crisis communications, provide long‑term strategic communications counsel and deliver on short‑term communication tactics and objectives.

Strong project management skills and the ability to juggle multiple priorities and competing deadlines.

Team player, collaborative spirit and ability to succeed in a fast‑paced, high‑visibility role.

Creative and passionate professional with experience in the development and implementation of integrated communications programs.

Experience in internal and external communications, including executive communications and issues/crisis management.

Follows communications trends and has proficiency with social and digital channels.

Preferred Experience and Skills

Experience in supporting R&D or oncology communications.

Experience working with C‑suite and senior level executives.

Budget and agency management experience.

Required Skills

Biopharmaceutical Industry

Biopharmaceutics

Brand Awareness

Communication Management

Communication Strategy Development

Content Creation

Crisis Communication Management

Crisis Public Relations

Digital Channels

Establishing Contacts

Integrated Communication Strategies

Internal Communications

Marketing Capabilities

Media Monitoring

Media Relations

Pharmaceutical Biology

Policy Development

Project Management

Public Relations Consulting

Reimbursement Management

Social Media

Social Media Compliance

Special Event Planning

Employment and Compensation
Salary range: $129,000.00 – $203,100.00. The highest possible salary within this range will be determined based on qualifications, experience, geographic location and business needs. Eligible candidates will receive an annual bonus and long‑term incentive, if applicable.

Benefits: Medical, dental, vision and other insurance for employee and family; retirement benefits including 401(k); paid holidays; vacation; compassionate and sick days. More information about benefits is available at https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits.

Job Details

Location: Rahway, NJ (USA) or Upper Gwynedd, PA (USA)

Hybrid: 3 days in-office, 2 days remote

Relocation: No relocation assistance

Visa Sponsorship: No

Travel Requirements: 10%

Flexible Work Arrangements: Hybrid

Shift: 1st - Day

Valid Driving License: No

Hazardous Material(s): N/A

Equal Opportunity Statement
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We provide equal opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For more information about our rights under U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit EEOC Know Your Rights, EEOC GINA Supplement, and learn more about your rights under state acts.

#J-18808-Ljbffr