Director, Public Affairs

Job Description Summary

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.

- Government experience: Demonstrated experience working within state or federal government, either as a political advisor or a member of a relevant government department.

- Partnership building: Demonstrated ability to build partnerships to address complex regulatory, policy, or access priorities.

- Stakeholder relationship management: Strong background in building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders across government, universities, and the private sector.

- Exceptional communication skills: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with a demonstrated record of making a significant impact.

- Autonomous problem‑solving: Ability to work autonomously and take initiative to solve complex policy problems.

- Cross‑functional collaboration: Experience working cross‑functionally within an organization and demonstrating impact across different areas.

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

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

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