Director, External Relations – Conservative Organizations

Working with Us
Challenging. Meaningful. Life-changing. Those aren’t words that are usually associated with a job. But working at Bristol Myers Squibb is anything but usual. Here, uniquely interesting work happens every day, in every department. From optimizing a production line to the latest breakthroughs in cell therapy, this is work that transforms the lives of patients, and the careers of those who do it. You’ll get the chance to grow and thrive through opportunities uncommon in scale and scope, alongside high-achieving teams. Take your career farther than you thought possible.

Bristol Myers Squibb recognizes the importance of balance and flexibility in our work environment. We offer a wide variety of competitive benefits, services and programs that provide our employees with the resources to pursue their goals, both at work and in their personal lives. Read more: careers.bms.com/working-with-us.

Position Summary

The Director, External Relations – Conservative Organizations will lead Bristol Myers Squibb’s engagement strategy with conservative think tanks and policy organizations to advance federal policy priorities and promote patient access to innovative medicines. Reporting to the Senior Director of Strategic Alliances and Issue Advocacy, this role will proactively build and manage strategic relationships, shape the external policy environment, and drive advocacy efforts aligned with BMS’s mission and business objectives.

This individual will navigate complex legislative and regulatory landscapes, leveraging deep policy expertise and strong stakeholder relationships to influence outcomes. The role requires a strategic thinker with a collaborative mindset and a passion for coalition-building in the healthcare space.

Key Responsibilities

• Position BMS as a thought leader within the conservative policy community by cultivating high-impact relationships and partnerships.

• Develop and execute external engagement strategies that address both immediate policy challenges and long-term opportunities to shape a market-based healthcare environment

• Lead advocacy campaigns that integrate policy research, stakeholder activation, coalition development, and public affairs tactics to achieve measurable outcomes.

• Represent BMS at key convenings, forums, and programming to elevate the company’s voice and policy leadership.

• Establish clear goals and accountabilities for external relationships, ensuring alignment with BMS’s federal policy priorities.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in public policy, political science, or related field preferred.

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in advocacy, public policy, or government affairs within a corporate, trade association, or government setting.

• Demonstrated success in building and managing relationships with conservative policy organizations and third-party stakeholders.

• Strong understanding of health policy and the biopharmaceutical industry, with appreciation for its complexity and regulatory environment.

• Proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and deliver strategic outcomes.

• Exceptional communication skills—written, verbal, and interpersonal—with the ability to engage diverse audiences and unify stakeholders.

• Experience developing integrated advocacy strategies using a range of communications channels and tactics.

• Strong analytical and decision-making skills; thrives in fast-paced, matrixed environments.

#LI-Hybrid

If you come across a role that intrigues you but doesn’t perfectly line up with your resume, we encourage you to apply anyway. You could be one step away from work that will transform your life and career.

Compensation Overview:

Washington DC - US: $206,210 - $249,878

The starting compensation range(s) for this role are listed above for a full-time employee (FTE) basis. Additional incentive cash and stock opportunities (based on eligibility) may be available. The starting pay rate takes into account characteristics of the job, such as required skills, where the job is performed, the employee’s work schedule, job-related knowledge, and experience. Final, individual compensation will be decided based on demonstrated experience. 

Eligibility for specific benefits listed on our careers site may vary based on the job and location. For more on benefits, please visit