Director of Partnership Communications

Job Description Summary

This position will be located at the East Hanover, NJ site and will not have the ability to be located remotely. This position will require about 20% travel as defined by the business (domestic and/ or international). Please note that this role would not provide relocation and only local candidates will be considered.

The Director of Partnership Communications will drive and manage communications strategies and rollout for corporate-level Novartis partnership initiatives, including our partnership with the National Football League (NFL). This role will work across US Corporate Affairs and the commercial organization to shape corporate reputation and therapeutic area thought leadership across external and internal audiences through high-visibility and impact partnerships.

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Job Description

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee the communications strategy for Novartis corporate-level partnerships in the US, including our partnership with NFL, with a focus on advancing corporate reputation, disease awareness and social impact
• Execute integrated year-round partnership initiatives to drive awareness for Novartis leadership at the corporate level in alignment with therapeutic area priorities
• Drive earned media strategy and engagement
• Build and maintain high-level corporate messaging around partnership initiatives with a 360-degree communications framework
• Infuse creative and storytelling elements into partnership communications to enhance visibility and connectivity
• Partner closely with therapeutic area communications, marketing and corporate communications leads to ensure integrated planning and activation, enabling high-impact storytelling across channels
• Engage with key cross-functional stakeholders to ensure alignment and support for partnership initiatives
• Anticipate and manage risk to Novartis and brand reputation, shaping strategy and initiatives with business partners and senior leaders
• Collaborate with and help manage integrated agency teams to develop and execute comprehensive communications plans.
• Utilize analytics and insights to inform strategy and report outcomes
• Stay ahead of trends in communications and advise senior leaders on reputational advantages and business drivers
• Serve as a trusted business partner and communications strategy counselor to senior leaders; build and maintain collaborative relationships with key US functions, US communications partners and global corporate affairs colleagues
• Monitor and evaluate performance to achieve and maintain best-in-class outcomes, while being fully compliant
• Effectively manage budget and maximize agency ROI

Essential Requirements

Education: BA/BS required, advanced degree a plus.

Experience:

• 10+ years of experience in corporate communications, partnership communications, or related discipline.
• Proven track record in stakeholder engagement and management; strong interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively interact with and counsel senior leaders.
• Expert ability to develop and implement integrated communications plans.
• Strong background in storytelling, social media strategy, content creation, reputation and issues management.
• Experience in impactful media relations.
• Flawless project management.
• Influencing at a high senior level and navigating complexity.
• Management of agency partners and budget.
• Agility and ability to succeed in a fast-paced work environment.
• Collaborative enterprise mindset with comfort in working in a highly matrixed environment with integrated planning and execution.

Desirable Requirements: 

• Industry experience in healthcare, pharmaceutical and/or consumer a plus.

Novartis Compensation and Benefit Summary: The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between: $152,600.00 and $283,400.00/year; however, while salary ranges are effective from 1/1/25 through 12/31/25, fluctuations in the job market may necessitate adjustments to pay ranges during this period.  Further, final pay determinations will depend on various factors, including, but not limited to geographical location, experience level, knowledge, skills, and abilities. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, including a sign-on bonus, restricted stock units, and discretionary awards in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and parental leave), dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if a