Senior Director, Therapeutic Area Head of Global Scientific Communications

Introduction to role :

Are you ready to lead the charge in redefining scientific communications within the realm of rare diseases? As the Senior Director & Therapeutic Area Head of Global Scientific Communications, you'll orchestrate a dynamic team dedicated to crafting impactful medical communications strategies. Reporting to the Vice President of GMC HEOR and Training, you'll collaborate with cross-functional collaborators to ensure that scientific communication activities are strategically aligned and successfully delivered from Phase 1 through post-approval. Your leadership will be pivotal in guiding the development of publications, scientific platforms, and other medical communications deliverables, all while ensuring adherence to good publication practices and managing budgets effectively.

Accountabilities :

Supervise and direct the creation of medical communications strategies and publication plans led by the indication Scientific Communications leads in accordance with annual plans.

Ensure the team achieves timely execution of strategic publications plans and related activities, producing high-quality, accurate, and impactful results including abstracts, posters, oral presentations, manuscripts, and slide decks.

Ensure alignment across global, regional, and local medical publication plans.

Ensure the development of centralized content such as scientific platforms & global slide library for each indication / product within the META+ portfolio.

Review deliverables from team members and agencies for content and key communications objectives as needed / required and ensure clinical and other data are appropriately analyzed and interpreted for publications and communications activities.

Hire, supervise, mentor, coach, and develop team members.

Establish strong collaborative relationships and work in close partnership with other members of the GMC HEOR Training teams, the broader Global Medical Affairs team members, and other key internal customers (Clinical Development, Research, Commercial product teams, Biostats, Corporate Communications etc.) and externally with opinion leaders, patient advocacy groups, and professional societies.

Supervise or review publications, slide presentations, and other scientific materials for content and positioning.

Accountable for the overall management of medical communications agencies and for oversight of financial and contractual aspects of all projects.

Work in close collaboration with Scientific Communications leadership team to champion and elevate Scientific Communications function, deliver metrics, and lead and participate in departmental workstreams that increase efficiency and impact.

Manage the Scientific Communications therapeutic area budget to meet the annual operating plan objectives and support regular financial forecasts within the therapeutic areas.

Ensure commitment to principles of transparency and disclosure.

Ensure compliance with all internal and external publication practice guidelines and policies as well as with internal policies and best practices governing Medical Affairs activities.

Participate in updates to the Alexion Publication SOP, guidance documents, and work instructions.

Provide strategic mentorship to cross-functional partners on the Alexion Publication Policy and publications guidance.

Essential Skills / Experience :

Advanced degree (PhD, PharmD, or MD) or significant relevant work experience in the Pharmaceutical industry

Minimum 10+ years of relevant experience in a pharmaceutical company or medical communications agency in scientific communications or similar role; background and experience in rare diseases is highly desirable.

Proven people leadership skills and an ability to lead and empower teams.

Demonstrated experience in designing and implementing scientific communications strategy and programs

Strong experience in strategic publication planning (including scientific platforms), tactical publication planning and implementation, and the planning and development of medical educational materials

Strong knowledge of current good publication practices and guidelines (GPP2022, ICMJE, and other relevant guidelines)

Ability to interpret and organize highly complex scientific data, including experience reviewing clinical trial data and output from statistical analysis programs

Experience in supervising as well as hands-on experience in preparation of abstracts, posters, manuscripts; developing content for scientific and educational programs; working closely with Key Opinion Leaders and authors

Experience in working closely with clinical and registry investigators and authors

Ability to travel (US and International) approximately 15-20% of time

Desirable Skills / Experience :

CMPP certification preferred

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.

At AstraZeneca's Alexion division, you'll find yourself at the forefront of rare disease biopharma. Our commitment to transparency, objectivity, and ethics drives us to push scientific boundaries. With global reach and potent capabilities, we are uniquely positioned to shape the future of rare disease treatment. Our culture fosters innovation through a passionate entrepreneurial spirit combined with the strength of a global biopharma. Here you'll be empowered to make a difference by connecting deeply with patients' journeys while growing your career alongside exceptional leaders.

Ready to embark on this exciting journey? Apply now to join our team!

Date Posted

25-Sept-2025

Closing Date

16-Oct-2025

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.

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