Policy Communications, Senior Director

The Position
The Opportunity
The Policy Communications, Senior Director is responsible for leading the development, implementation, and execution of a communications strategy and related activities around policy initiatives, including overseeing thought leadership, policy issues, and transformative advocacy at a state and federal level. This role will translate complex policy issues into clear, accessible, and persuasive messaging and storytelling for diverse audiences, including internal and external stakeholders, traditional and social media, as well as the general public.

The Sr. Director will work closely with the CEO and SVP, Public Affairs and Access (PAA), relevant members of the PAA team, External Affairs and Policy experts, Corporate Communications, as well as other internal and external partners to ensure consistent and impactful communication of policy positions and initiatives.

Key Responsibilities
Strategy Development and Execution
Develop and execute a comprehensive policy communications strategy that supports the organization’s business and thought leadership goals, as well as transformative advocacy priorities.

Align messaging with organizational objectives and policy goals.

Provide strategic communications counsel to senior leadership, policy teams, and other internal stakeholders.

Message Development and Storytelling
Craft clear, compelling, and fact-based messages that communicate complex policy issues in accessible language.

Prepare op-eds, speeches, talking points, and other written materials to advance policy goals.

Coordinate the development of policy briefs, fact sheets, reports, and other public-facing materials.

Media Analysis & Strategy
Collaborate with Genentech and Roche Media Relations and External Communications teams on media engagement, strategy, and responses/message development.

Monitor media coverage of key policy issues and work proactively to shape public narratives.

Work in real-time to engage with and build on media stories where Genentech should have a voice or position, and act quickly to generate content.

Stakeholder and Partner Engagement
Coordinate communications efforts with external partners, including advocacy groups, coalitions, government agencies, industry trade organizations (e.g., PhRMA, BIO), and other stakeholders.

Build relationships with policy advocates, lawmakers, and other influencers to further the organization’s policy objectives.

Manage communication strategies for public hearings, legislative sessions, and other policy-related events.

Digital and Social Media Strategy
Oversee the development of digital content, including social media posts, blog articles, and email newsletters, to engage stakeholders and raise awareness about key policy issues.

Use data analytics to monitor the effectiveness of digital communications efforts and adapt strategies as needed.

Crisis Communication and Issue Management
Co-lead crisis communication efforts and “rapid response” team to address emerging policy challenges or controversies in collaboration with Media Relations and External Communications.

Develop and implement proactive communication strategies to manage issues before they escalate.

Who You Are
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Political Science, or related field.

Minimum of 12–15 years of experience in healthcare or adjacent policy communications, public relations, media relations, or advocacy.

Proven track record of developing and implementing strategic communications plans with a focus on policy issues.

Strong understanding of government processes, policy development, and the media landscape.

Experience working in a state or government office, non-profit, advocacy organization, or public affairs agency.

Preferred Skills
Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills, including executive presence and confidence to share strategy and counsel with senior management.

Ability to translate complex policy information into accessible, engaging content.

Deep experience with crisis communications and issue management.

Knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes, including experience working with lawmakers and government agencies.

Experience in media relations and digital communications, including social media strategy and analytics.

Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and meet tight deadlines.

Strong leadership skills and experience managing a team.

Experience navigating ambiguity and working in a highly matrixed organization.

Working Conditions
Full-time position with flexibility for remote work or hybrid options.

Occasional travel may be required.

Must be able to work outside of normal business hours when necessary, especially during peak advocacy periods.

Relocation is not offered on this posting.

This role is based out of the Washington, DC Genentech campus; however, remote flexibility may be considered.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of Washington DC is $164,500/yr to $305,500/yr. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and company performance.

This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.

Benefits
Genentech Benefits

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Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company’s policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form: Accommodations for Applicants.

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