Sr Director, Public Affairs, External Affairs

Gilead Sciences

Senior Director overseeing public affairs and external engagement strategies at Gilead. Leading communications for policy priorities and stakeholder engagement in U.S.

Posted 5/13/2026full-timeWashington • California, District of Columbia, Washington • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $221,000 - $314,600 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

develop and execute proactive, integrated public affairs communication strategies and content that articulate and support Gilead’s legislative, regulatory and public policy objectives
translate complex policy topics into accessible, persuasive narratives for external audiences
monitor and synthesize public affairs developments to inform proactive communication planning
identify opportunities, venues and creative communications tactics to meet Gilead’s objectives
strengthen message discipline, ensuring alignment across Public Affairs, Government Affairs, Legal, and functional partners
advise senior leaders and internal partners on best practices and creative ways of communicating and activating campaigns
ensure Public Affairs communication efforts complement Government Affairs’ policy, trade, and coalition building strategies
support the development of content for policymakers, advocacy groups, NGOs, and external experts
partner with enterprise communicators to ensure consistency across therapeutic, corporate, and reputation driving messaging
support issue monitoring and response related to emerging risks and evolving narratives that may impact Gilead’s reputation.

Requirements

What you’ll need

10+ years of experience in social media, digital communications, or content strategy
Strong understanding of key Beltway publications, policy media ecosystems, and digital/social media targeting capabilities to effectively reach policymakers, influencers, and specialized audiences
Proven ability to balance strategic planning with hands-on content creation
Comfortable supporting senior leaders in high-visibility, high-stakes environments
Exceptional written, visual and verbal communication skills
Demonstrated ability to partner cross-functionally, collaborate and influence stakeholders at all levels
Knowledge of the regulatory, political, or social responsibility landscapes impacting business and reputation
Excellence in translating policy and complex science into compelling, credible narratives.
Preferred: Background in public affairs, corporate communications, reputation management, consulting, political campaigns, PR agencies or government relations.
Experience in a global or highly matrixed corporate environment.

Benefits

Comp & perks

discretionary annual bonus
discretionary stock-based long-term incentives (eligibility may vary based on role)
paid time off
company-sponsored medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

content strategydigital communicationssocial mediastrategic planningcontent creationpolicy translationnarrative developmentissue monitoringrisk responsecommunication tactics

Soft Skills

written communicationvisual communicationverbal communicationcollaborationinfluencecross-functional partnershipcreativityadvising senior leadersmessage disciplinepersuasion