Associate Director, Strategy & Media Relations

Position Summary

Reporting to the Senior Director, Global Media Relations, the Associate Director, Media Relations, is responsible for executing a global media relations strategy designed to advance Bristol Myers Squibb’s reputation among key audiences. The ideal candidate will bring sharp media judgment and strong storytelling ability, with the proven ability to navigate a fast-paced news environment and deliver impactful media outcomes while effectively managing scope, timelines and resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute a global, top-tier media strategy aligned with corporate positioning to advance the company narrative and enhance reputation through proactive and opportunistic engagement across print, broadcast, and digital media.
• Drive continual cadence of news flow, managing sequence and strategy of announcements.
• Identify, develop and pitch unique storylines and content opportunities that advance the company’s strategic positioning.
• Build and maintain relationships with top-tier media, manage incoming media requests, and execute proactive and opportunistic media outreach.
• Develop media materials including pitches, talking points for interviews, etc.
• Prepare background and briefing materials, plan logistics, and train spokespeople for critical media and public speaking opportunities.
• Demonstrate strong judgment and superior media acumen when engaging with reporters.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of best-in-class media resources, driving consistency, usability and operational excellence across teams.
• Champion the thoughtful use of AI and emerging tools to drive smarter insights, elevate content and improve the efficiency and impact of media engagement.
• Closely monitor external trends and insights to advise on where and how BMS should have a voice and to continually inform media strategy development.
• Socialize external announcements to internal audiences to advance workforce knowledge of BMS people, medicines, positions and performance.
• Support response to issues management and rapid response.
• Manage agency partners, including scope, timelines and utilization to support effective delivery within budget.

Qualifications & Experience

• 8 years of media relations experience, preferably in pharmaceutical or similar industry.
• Existing relationships with top business, consumer and financial media.
• Excellent writing and research skills, with knowledge of AP style and a keen attention to detail.
• Issues management experience preferred.
• Strong business acumen, with a demonstrated ability to understand and translate business strategy.
• Ability to interact effectively with many levels of colleagues across a complex, highly collaborative organization.
• Strong writing and storytelling capabilities, with the ability to translate complex scientific, business, policy, or societal issues into clear, compelling messaging.
• Ability to effectively counsel senior leaders.
• Superior written, verbal, facilitation and interpersonal communications skills.
• Excels in fast-paced, challenging environment.
• High proficiency with digital communications and effective use of online platforms.
• Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in communications, journalism or related field.