Associate Media Relations and Issues Management Director

About the Department

The Communications Department brings the value of Novo Nordisk medicines and innovations to life through strategic communications that elevate the company's purpose, drive business, foster culture, and enhance reputation with patients, customers, employees, and society in the U.S. Communications is comprised of four synergistic teams: Corporate Reputation & Brand; Commercial Communications; Enterprise & Leadership Communications; and Digital Channels & Content. The department provides objective strategic counsel, adapts to shifting priorities, and maintains a strong focus on ethics and discretion.

About the Role

The Associate Director, Media Relations & Issues Management is accountable for establishing and leading Novo Nordisk's strategic media relations programs to enhance visibility and reputation at local and national levels. This role positions the company favorably among key external audiences and ensures public understanding of its mission, business goals, and philosophies. The position contributes to portfolio, pipeline, and corporate objectives, including commercial goals, while protecting Novo Nordisk's reputation. It involves identifying and addressing complex issues, creating strategic solutions, and serving as an official company spokesperson.

Key Relationships

Reports to the Director, Media & Stakeholder Relations, and interacts with senior leaders across Novo Nordisk US Operations (USO), including the USO President/Executive Office, Commercial, Market Access, Public Affairs, Legal, Finance, Investor Relations, Clinical, Medical, and Regulatory teams. Key external relationships include national and local journalists, community leaders, professional and patient/consumer groups, and public relations agencies.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a company spokesperson, establishing and maintaining contact with key media targets at national and local levels.
• Anticipate and respond to media inquiries, developing and driving proactive media relations programs to generate positive coverage in business, healthcare, financial, and consumer press.
• Create strategies to leverage new media channels for building awareness and shaping stakeholder perceptions.
• Develop media strategies and key message platforms, prepare and coach senior management for media interviews and speaking opportunities, and ensure accurate media reporting.
• Lead communications excellence activities, including media training, storytelling, and crisis/issues management readiness.
• Ensure alignment with global teams to include U.S. perspectives in global issues and provide updates to USO Communications leadership on key trends.
• Engage with leaders across the USO Communications Department to drive integrated planning for business and reputational goals.
• Conduct assessments of potential issues, devise mitigation plans, and counsel senior leaders on response strategies.
• Serve as Media Relations lead for USO Crisis Response Teams (CRTs) as required.
• Manage communications budgets, optimizing agency spend to maximize value.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (advanced degree preferred).
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive communications or relevant experience (e.g., Public Relations, Media Relations).
• Experience in a public relations agency environment and/or the pharmaceutical industry preferred.
• Proven strategic planning, media relations, and issues/crisis management skills.
• Demonstrated success in creating strategic direction and driving business improvement.
• Ability to work under tight timelines in high-pressure environments with limited preparation.
• Business acumen and ability to coach and influence leaders at all levels.
• Effective project management and stakeholder influence in cross-functional, collaborative environments.
• Understanding of integrated media, social, and digital platforms and strategies.

Physical Requirements

10-20% overnight travel required.

Pay

The base compensation range for this position is $153,000 to $267,000. Base compensation is determined based on several factors. This position is also eligible for a company bonus based on individual and company performance, as well as long-term incentive compensation or company vehicles depending on the position's level.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Life insurance and disability insurance.
• 401(k) savings plan.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Employee assistance program.
• Tuition reimbursement program.
• Voluntary benefits such as group legal, critical illness, identity theft protection, pet insurance, and auto/home insurance.
• Time off pursuant to sick time, flex-able vacation, and parental leave policies.