Director, Public Affairs

Job Description Summary

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Job Title: Director, Public Affairs – Australia
Location: New South Wales, Australia
Reports to: Country Head, Public Affairs
Novartis is a global pharmaceutical and healthcare company committed to improving the lives of patients and making a lasting impact on global health. With a rich history spanning over 250 years, Novartis has established itself as a leader in the industry, combining cutting-edge medical science with innovative technology to develop and deliver life-changing medicines and healthcare solutions.
As Director, Public Affairs, you will play a pivotal role in shaping Novartis’ engagement with government, industry bodies, and the broader community in Australia. You will lead government advocacy campaigns, strengthen our corporate reputation, and support business priorities through strategic stakeholder engagement and policy leadership.
This role also focuses on building partnerships with Federal and State Governments to unlock patient access to medicines, accelerate funding agreements, and remove barriers to care. You will be a key point of contact for Novartis, driving environment-shaping initiatives that improve patient health outcomes.

 

Job Description

Major accountabilities:

• Design and execute public affairs strategies and campaigns across Australia, with a strong focus on Federal and State Government engagement.
• Establish and maintain trusted relationships with policymakers, advisors, departmental officials, industry organisations, and other key stakeholders.
• Deliver new partnerships with governments, universities, and private sector organisations to enhance Novartis’ reputation and improve patient access to medicines.
• Monitor and interpret policy developments, providing timely insights and strategic guidance to senior leadership.
• Represent Novartis in industry forums, public consultations, and stakeholder engagements.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Value & Access, Legal, Communications, Medical, and Commercial teams to support critical business outcomes.
• Identify and develop innovative partnerships that deliver value and advance strategic objectives.

Minimum Requirements:
Work Experience:

• Relevant Tertiary Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Economics, Political Science, Law, Business, Health Economics, or Communications. These qualifications will provide a strong foundation for success in this role.
• Government Experience: You have demonstrated experience working within State or Federal Government, either as a political advisor or a member of a relevant government department. Your understanding of government processes and systems will be invaluable in navigating the complexities of the public sector.
• Partnership Building: You have a demonstrated ability to build partnerships to address complex regulatory, policy, or access priorities. Your expertise in forging strategic alliances will be essential in finding innovative solutions to healthcare challenges.
• Stakeholder Relationship Management: You have a strong background in building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders across various sectors, including government, universities, and the private sector. Your ability to engage with high-profile stakeholders will be instrumental in driving collaboration and achieving impactful outcomes.
• Exceptional Communication Skills: You possess exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with a demonstrated record of making a significant impact. Your ability to effectively convey complex information and influence stakeholders will be critical in shaping the future of healthcare.
• Autonomous Problem-Solving: You have demonstrated the ability to work autonomously and take the initiative to solve complex policy problems. Your proactive approach and problem-solving skills will contribute to finding innovative solutions.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: You have experience working cross-functionally within an organization and have demonstrated the ability to have an impact across different areas. Your ability to collaborate with diverse teams will be crucial in achieving organisational objectives.

Join us on this exciting journey of growth, innovation, and impact. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of patients and reshape the future of healthcare. Apply now and be a part of the Novartis team that is unlocking growth opportunities and transforming healthcare ecosystems!

 

Skills Desired

Business Communications, Communication Medium, Curiosity, Influencing Skills, Marketing, Media Campaigns, Media Relations, Microsoft Access, Nuclear Energy, Press Releases, Prioritization, Public Affairs, Social Media, Strategic Alliances