Director, External Communications, Oncology R&Derapy

At AstraZeneca, we have a bold ambition to one day eliminate cancer as a cause of death. Our Oncology R&D strategy aims to transform cancer outcomes by attacking cancer from multiple angles, harnessing the potential of combinations, treating earlier and smarter, and leading with transformational technologies such as data and AI, computational pathology and digital health.

We are looking for a Communications Director to externally elevate our science and scientists in Early Oncology R&D. The role will involve working closely with Early Oncology R&D leaders and scientists, as well as Global Corporate Affairs colleagues, to develop multi-layered campaigns across digital, social and traditional media to bring our early oncology science (discovery to Phase II) and its potential impact to life. The content and stories you help to develop will need to resonate with a wide range of external audience groups including collaborators, recruits and media.

Primary Duties And Responsibilities Act as the external comms partner to the Early Oncology R&D organisation. Build external awareness of, and excitement in, our breakthrough science in Oncology R&D. Identify opportunities to externally demonstrate AZ’s leadership and ambition for key Early Oncology areas of priority, including antibody drug conjugates, radioconjugates, molecular glues, PROTACs, Functional Genomics.

Raise the profile of Early Oncology leaders and scientists externally through the creation of an authentic and inspiring thought leadership programme. Establish strong relationships with Early Oncology leaders and become go-to for external comms counsel. Lead on communications to showcase and amplify Oncology R&D scientific publications externally, and matrix manage internal science engagement network to align approach with internal channels.

Lead AACR annual congress communications strategy, including media, social and our internal Precon event. Lead communications for partnering activities related to Early Oncology, including development of press releases, statements, Q&As. Prepare for potential issues.

Closely partner with AZ Global Media, digital communications and BioPharma R&D communications teams and identify opportunities for engagement and collaboration on relevant communications activities. Establish measures of success and implement relevant evaluation tools for all communications activities. Minimum Qualification Requirements Bachelor’s degree with 8-10 years of experience in a related field.

Established track record of delivering impactful, content rich communications programmes across multiple channels and stakeholders with demonstrable measures of success. Strong scientific understanding and ability to turn complex concepts into compelling narratives for a range of audiences. Substantial experience of scientific communications.

Experience of working in Oncology and/or R&D communications desired. Experience supporting senior leaders through communications counsel. Confidence around most senior leaders and comfortable delivering alternative viewpoint.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, particularly with scientific and complex information. Strong channel management, digital skills and knowledge of technology options, including ability to design data driven communications strategies to maximise impact. Experience of working with the media.

Team worker with high level of personal accountability. Able to develop and maintain networks across business and cultural boundaries. AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity.

We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.