External Corporate Communications Specialist (Senior Manager)

About Astellas

Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at Astellas.com.

 

Are you driven to make a real difference in the lives of patients?

We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact.

 

Purpose and Scope:

The External Corporate Communications Specialist supports the execution of Astellas' global external corporate communications strategy and overall corporate brand and reputation across media relations, social media, and digital channels. Reporting to the Lead, External Corporate Communications, this role helps protect and strengthen Astellas' corporate reputation by supporting media engagement activities and maintaining governance and excellence across digital communication platforms.

 

The Specialist works closely with colleagues across Corporate Communications, Investor Relations, Commercial and Medical Affairs, R&D, Public Affairs, Legal, Compliance, and local affiliates to amplify Astellas' corporate narrative and strategic priorities through earned, owned, and shared channels. The role supports media outreach, content development, social media strategy and execution, website content management, analytics, and issues preparedness.

This position requires excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, highly matrixed global environment. While based in the United States, the role frequently collaborates with global stakeholders, including colleagues in Japan and other regions.

 

Responsibilities and Accountabilities:

Media Relations Support

• Support execution of Astellas' external media relations strategy in alignment with enterprise communications priorities and governance.
• Assist in managing media inquiries, coordinating responses, and ensuring consistent messaging across proactive and reactive communications.
• Support development of media materials, including press releases, statements, media alerts, backgrounders, fact sheets, and Q&A documents.
• Research and identify media engagement opportunities that elevate Astellas' corporate profile, innovation, scientific leadership, and patient impact.
• Maintain media lists, monitor journalist activity, and support relationship-building efforts with key business, healthcare, pharmaceutical, science, and trade media.
• Support press events, media briefings, interviews, and corporate announcements.

Digital Communications and Social Media

• Support execution of Astellas' corporate digital and social media strategy across global and U.S. channels.
• Develop, publish, and optimize content for social media platforms and digital channels that align with corporate communications objectives.
• Support day-to-day social media operations, including content scheduling, approvals, publishing, and community management support.
• Partner with communications colleagues and agency partners to develop integrated campaigns that leverage social media, web, and earned media channels.
• Monitor competitive intelligence in social media, identify emerging trends, and provide insights to support reputation management and communications planning.
• Ensure content and platform activities adhere to corporate governance, legal, regulatory, and compliance requirements.

Corporate Website and Digital Channel Management

• Support management of corporate website content, ensuring information is accurate, current, engaging, and aligned with corporate messaging.
• Coordinate content updates, digital publishing processes, and enhancements to improve user experience and engagement.
• Work with internal stakeholders and agency partners to maintain content governance standards, editorial calendars, and digital best practices.