Director – External Innovation Communications and Public Affairs

Johnson & Johnson

. Develop and lead integrated communications and public affairs strategies for Innovative Medicine Business Development, Discovery, Product Development and Supply, and External Scientific Innovation priorities .

Posted 11/6/2026full-timeNew Brunswick • New Jersey • United StatesLead💰 $154,000 - $265,650 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in strategic communications and public affairs within highly regulated industries, with a strong ability to translate complex scientific and business strategies into clear narratives. Proven experience in leading high-visibility programs and managing stakeholder communications effectively.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Strategic CommunicationsPublic AffairsStakeholder ManagementIssues ManagementDigital and Media Fluency

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Complex Narrative TranslationMessage DevelopmentCommunications StrategyProgram LeadershipRisk Assessment

Soft Skills

CollaborationInfluencing Without AuthorityExecutive PresenceStrong Writing SkillsStrategic Thinking

Tools & Technologies

AI ToolsMedia RelationsCommunications PlaybooksStakeholder Engagement Platforms

Industry Keywords

BiopharmaceuticalsHealthcareCorporate AffairsRegulatory ComplianceInnovation Ecosystems

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop and lead integrated communications and public affairs strategies for Innovative Medicine Business Development, Discovery, Product Development and Supply, and External Scientific Innovation priorities
Create and maintain messaging platforms articulating innovation strategy, scientific leadership, and partnership approach
Translate complex scientific, product development, and M&A strategies into clear narratives
Lead communications for priority deals and partnerships from pre-announcement planning through announcement, close, and post-announcement integration
Develop message maps, Q&As, executive talking points, internal announcements, and stakeholder communications
Lead communications readiness and rapid response for deal-related media inquiries, competitive activity, and regulatory developments
Partner with integration leaders on change communications, employee engagement, and cultural integration
Shape public affairs strategies related to innovation, partnering, and the business environment
Engage industry groups, scientific communities, innovation ecosystems, patient and advocacy organizations, and policy leaders
Develop thought-leadership opportunities
Partner with Media Relations and Therapeutic Area communications teams to shape external narratives and protect reputation
Counsel senior leaders on communications strategy, media interviews, and external engagements
Monitor trends and stakeholder sentiment across biotechnology, dealmaking, AI, digital health, and advanced modalities
Establish deal communications playbooks, briefing templates, review workflows, and other repeatable processes
Define success measures and reporting using share of voice, message pull-through, and stakeholder engagement
Manage agency partners and budgets as needed
Serve as communications counselor to senior leaders and represent Communications and Public Affairs on Leadership Teams
Build partnerships across communications, Public Affairs, Investor Relations, and Global Corporate Media Relations
Mentor, collaborate, and contribute to an inclusive team culture

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree required in Communications, Journalism, Public Affairs, Political Science, Business, Life Sciences, or related field
10–12 years of experience in strategic communications, corporate affairs, public affairs, or a related field
Experience in biopharmaceuticals, healthcare, or another highly regulated industry strongly preferred
Demonstrated experience leading complex, high-visibility programs with senior stakeholders, tight timelines, and high reputational risk
Experience supporting business development, partnerships, M&A, licensing, alliances, or innovation ecosystems preferred
Experience working effectively in global, matrixed organizations and coordinating across multiple functions and geographies
Excellent writing and editorial judgment
Ability to translate complex science, strategy, and deal terms into clear, accurate communications for diverse audiences
Strong strategic thinking and executive presence
Demonstrated ability to counsel senior leaders and contribute effectively to Leadership Teams
Issues management capability, including scenario planning, risk assessment, and rapid response
Strong collaboration and stakeholder management skills
Ability to influence without direct authority
Understanding of communications compliance requirements in regulated environments, including Legal, HCC, Regulatory, and disclosure considerations
Digital and media fluency, including owned, earned, and shared channels
Demonstrated ability to rapidly learn, evaluate, and adopt new AI tools and ways of working

Benefits

Comp & perks

Consolidated retirement plan (pension)
Savings plan (401(k))
Long-term incentive program
Vacation – 120 hours per calendar year
Sick time – 40 hours per calendar year; 48 hours for Colorado residents; 56 hours for Washington residents
Holiday pay, including Floating Holidays – 13 days per calendar year
Work, Personal and Family Time – up to 40 hours per calendar year
Parental Leave – 480 hours within one year of birth/adoption/foster care of a child
Bereavement Leave – 240 hours for an immediate family member; 40 hours for an extended family member per calendar year
Caregiver Leave – 80 hours in a 52-week rolling period
Volunteer Leave – 32 hours per calendar year
Military Spouse Time-Off – 80 hours per calendar year
Up to 20% travel may be required