Senior Director Global Media Relations - International

Senior Director, Global Media Relations, International

Location: Dubai UAE (3 days on site per week)

Are you ready to join a dynamic team at the forefront of pharmaceutical innovation? As part of the fastest growing pharmaceutical company in our markets, youll fuel further growth and be part of a shared ambition and pride. With a strong heritage and commitment to international markets, theres no better place to feel inspired and energized!

The Senior Director leads implementation of external communications strategies, with a primary focus on media relations while also contributing to broader efforts to shape AstraZeneca’s external reputation. The role supports planning and execution aligned to the priorities of the International and Europe & Canada regions, and those of Global Media Relations (GMR). It provides strategic communications counsel, assessment, integrated planning and execution in support of senior leaders, Therapeutic Areas (TA), and functional/cross-functional objectives.

The Senior Director plays a key role in shaping external perceptions of AstraZeneca by proactively leading media engagement around key TA/brand achievements, major initiatives, policies and issues – reinforcing the company’s science-led reputation. The role also involves assessing the competitive, media, and overall external landscape to use external communication opportunities and identify issues to be mitigated.

Accountabilities

• Develops and drives media relations campaigns and ongoing communication for use with media across the International and Europe & Canada regions to promote AstraZeneca, our brands, and other initiatives.
• Builds and maintains relationships with key top tier regional and national, business, trade, and broadcast media outlets/reporters.
• Serves as spokesperson for company on leading topics, news flow, and issues, while proactively pitching media and responding to media requests.
• Develops statements, press releases, and executive messages to reflect the company’s position on various proactive and reactive matters, including material/share-price sensitive events.
• Coaches EVP International and senior leaders on media interview techniques/external speaking skills and supports senior leaders on media and speaking engagements.
• Collaborates closely with internal TA colleagues to ensure brand messages are proactively shared with top-tier contacts and appropriately pulled through in all corporate external communications activities.
• Helps lead issues management and crisis preparedness activities for situations that could adversely impact AstraZeneca.
• Supports in developing and implementing a digital channel strategy for social, blog and website.
• Develops and maintains, in close collaboration with the in-country affiliates, a media and social media measurement approach to evaluate progress against AstraZeneca’s corporate reputation objectives.
• Evaluates capabilities of in-country spokespeople and media relations capabilities and develops and leads capability building programmes.
  
  

Essential Skills/Experience

• 15+ years of hands-on experience in leading proactive/reactive media relations programmes on behalf of a multinational company, involving complex regulatory, legal, financial, etc. issues – including litigation and business results.
• A track record of maintaining strong relationships with financial, pharma trade and consumer media.
• Previous employment in a regional or global level role.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to craft clear, compelling messages across channels.
• Experience partnering with senior leaders to support media interviews and their effectiveness in other executive external engagements.
  
  

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Knowledge of pharmaceutical and/or healthcare industry
• Prior journalism experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism or a related field.
  
  

In Office Requirement

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. Thats why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesnt mean were not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

Why AstraZeneca?

At AstraZeneca, you will find a workplace where high standards meet complex challenges. Our collective spirit fosters support and motivation, empowering you to make your mark. With a focus on sustainability, you can contribute to a future that extends beyond business projects. Here, you can pursue your ambitions with confidence, knowing youre part of a responsible, value-led organization.

So, What’s Next

Are you already envisioning yourself joining our team? Good, because we can’t wait to hear from you!

Date Posted

23-Sept-2025

Closing Date

29-Sept-2025

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.

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