Associate Director, International Communications

Location: Baar, Switzerland

Position Summary

The Associate Director, International Communications plays a crucial role in enhancing the company’s reputation through the development and roll out of communication strategies for internal and external audiences across the International region. Reporting to the Head of International Communications she/he is a member of the International Communications team, within the Corporate Affairs Function.

This position also acts as the site communications lead for Alexion’s employee presence in Baar, working closely with the Baar site lead.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development of annual international communications strategies and execute them in collaboration with the Head of International Communications and Global Corporate Affairs.
• Support the Head of International Communications as the strategic business partner to the international business and key stakeholders.
• Support corporate reputation work, including identifying speaking opportunities, sponsorships, and program advertising.
• Coordinate with country communication leads to streamline and align communications across countries and departments.
• Work closely with the Head of International Communications to support communications initiatives at the International level (e.g. related to major milestones) and implement broader corporate communications initiatives at the local level.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams such as Government Affairs, Commercial/Marketing, Patient Advocacy to ensure strategic, consistent, and effective communications on key topics/issues/initiatives.
• Create compelling content by working closely with cross-functional teams for internal and external use.
• Provide support for international communications agenda including content writing, announcements, thought leadership, internal events, quarterly International Town Halls.
• Monitor and manage issues that could impact Alexion success or company reputation at the international level.
• Identify, contract and lead/manage/oversee agencies engaged to support communications at the international level.

Essential Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in in-house and/or agency communications in a healthcare setting.
• Strong and broad background in communications in the bio/pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven track record of working successfully with both executives and subject matter experts.
• Experience in content for digital and social media.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work comfortably in a multicultural environment.
• Robust media relations experience.
• Fluency in English.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading communications for global or an affiliate of a larger health care company.
• Experience working within a European communications team.
• Other language commonly spoken in Europe.
• Excellent English writing and editing skills.
• Demonstrated understanding of pharmaceutical regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrated ability in establishing and cultivating effective internal working relationship with cross-functional counterparts.
• Strong project management and leadership skills.
• Understanding of organizational operations, branding, and communication strategy.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and processes within a growing organization.
• Ability to remain flexible and adapt to a changing environment.
• Ability to deliver in high-pressure situations and with short deadlines.