Senior Manager, Media and Issues

Johnson & Johnson

. Lead global media relations and issues management strategy for DePuy Synthes, including proactive storytelling and reactive response .

Posted 9/24/2026full-timeUnited StatesSenior💰 $122,000 - $212,750 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in media relations, crisis communications, and issues management within regulated industries, with a strong ability to counsel senior executives and develop strategic messaging. Proficient in collaborating cross-functionally and managing high-visibility communications in complex environments.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Media RelationsCrisis CommunicationsIssues ManagementRegulatory ComplianceExecutive Communication

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Crisis ManagementMessage Framework DevelopmentMedia Inquiry ManagementExecutive-Level Briefing MaterialsWriting and Editing

Soft Skills

Influencing Decision-MakingAttention to DetailCross-Functional Collaboration

Certifications & Qualifications

Communications CertificationPublic Relations Certification

Industry Keywords

Medical DevicesPharmaceuticalsHealthcareCorporate CommunicationsPublic AffairsBusiness TransformationMergers and AcquisitionsStakeholder EngagementRegulated Industry DynamicsGlobal Media Landscape

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead global media relations and issues management strategy for DePuy Synthes, including proactive storytelling and reactive response
Advise senior leaders on reputational risk, emerging issues, and external narratives
Develop and execute crisis and issues management plans, including message frameworks, escalation protocols, and spokesperson preparation
Manage media inquiries involving product quality, safety, regulatory actions, litigation, and business transformation
Partner with Legal, Regulatory, Quality, Medical Affairs, HR, and Commercial teams on aligned and compliant communications
Monitor external media, social, and stakeholder landscapes to identify risks and opportunities
Provide regular insights and recommendations
Develop executive-level briefing materials, Q&A, statements, and talking points for high-visibility situations
Support enterprise-level initiatives, business transformation, and separation activities with clear and consistent external messaging

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree required in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field
Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive experience in media relations, issues management, corporate communications, or public affairs, including leadership at a senior manager level
Experience managing complex, high-risk, and high-visibility issues in a regulated industry such as medical devices, pharmaceuticals, or healthcare
Ability to counsel senior executives and influence decision-making under pressure
Strong understanding of global media landscapes and crisis communications best practices
Exceptional writing, editing, and verbal communication skills with attention to accuracy and clarity
Experience working cross-functionally with legal, regulatory, and compliance partners
English required; additional languages a plus
Up to 20% domestic and international travel may be required
Master’s degree preferred in Communications, Public Affairs, Business Administration, or related field
Experience supporting global or regional communications strategies within a matrixed organization preferred
Familiarity with orthopedic, medtech, or healthcare industry dynamics preferred
Prior experience with business transformation, mergers, acquisitions, or corporate separations preferred
Experience serving as, or preparing, spokespersons for media engagement preferred
People leadership or project leadership experience preferred
Communications or public relations certifications preferred but not required

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 employees; 56 hours for Washington employees
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 the 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
Inclusive interview process and accommodation support for applicants with disabilities