Associate Media Relations and Issues Management Director

About the role

The Associate Director, Media Relations & Issues Management is accountable for establishing and leading Novo Nordisk's strategic media relations programs across key priorities to enhance the visibility and positive reputation of Novo Nordisk at the local and national levels. This position contributes to the achievement of portfolio, pipeline, and corporate objectives, including attaining commercial goals, as well as improving and protecting Novo Nordisk's overall reputation. The role involves identifying and addressing issues of significant concern to the company, creating strategically sound solutions to minimize negative impact on business and reputation. As an official company spokesperson, the incumbent influences stakeholder perceptions and works collaboratively with senior leaders across Novo Nordisk US Operations.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a spokesperson for the company; establish and maintain contact with key media targets at national and local levels.
• Develop and drive a proactive media relations program, as part of integrated communications planning, to generate positive coverage for Novo Nordisk in business, healthcare, financial, and consumer press, with PR agency support.
• Create strategies to leverage new media as a key channel to build awareness of the company and positively shape stakeholder perceptions.
• Direct development of media strategies and key message platforms; prepare and coach senior management for media interviews and external speaking opportunities.
• Lead communications excellence activities that contribute to leadership development within the USO via media training, storytelling, and crisis/issues management readiness.
• Ensure alignment between key colleagues/teams in HQ to include US perspectives in global issues; provide updates to USO Comms LT on key issues/crises/trends.
• Engage with leaders across the USO Communications Department and enterprise to drive business and reputational goals through an integrated narrative.
• Conduct assessments of potential issues facing the company, leveraging market insights, AI, and media intelligence; devise plans to anticipate and mitigate issues.
• Counsel senior leaders on response strategy and public responses for USO, NN/AS, and sites across North America.
• Serve as Media Relations lead for USO Crisis Response Teams (CRTs), as required.
• Help manage communications budgets; execute programs within budget parameters and optimize agency spend.
• Contribute to developing integrated metrics that demonstrate the value of media/issues communications back to corporate reputation and business objectives.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required; advanced degree preferred.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive communications or other relevant experience (e.g., Public Relations, Media Relations) required.
• 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, plans, and driving business improvement and results.
• Ability to work under tight timelines in a high-pressure environment with limited planning or preparation.
• Demonstrated business acumen and ability to work across all levels of the business, coaching and influencing leaders.
• Proven ability to effectively manage projects and influence individuals, teams, and stakeholders.
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional, collaborative environment with global and regional considerations.
• Proven understanding of integrated media, social, and digital platforms and strategies.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Life insurance and disability insurance.
• 401(k) savings plan and flexible spending accounts.
• Employee assistance program and 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 policy, flex-able vacation policy, and parental leave policy.

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 and/or company vehicles depending on the position's level.

Schedule

10-20% overnight travel required.