Director, Product & Pipeline Communications

Director, Product & Pipeline Communications

The Director, Product & Pipeline Communications, will serve as a leader within Otsuka's Corporate Communications & Marketing team and a strategic partner to Otsuka's cross-functional U.S. and global teams. The Director will lead product and pipeline communications for Otsuka's currently marketed products, future label expansions, as well as its late-stage investigational pipeline candidates in the Nephrology/Immunology Therapeutic Area. The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated track record of successful product launch experience in the pharmaceutical/medical device other related healthcare industry, strong business and media acumen, outstanding writing and editing skills, and a proven ability to work cross-functionally. This role reports to the Senior Director, External Communications.

Drive comprehensive communications strategies for in-line commercial products (branded/unbranded) as well as planning around key data announcements, regulatory milestones and launch programs for late-stage pipeline candidates.

Maintain thorough scientific and industry/trend knowledge of Otsuka's therapeutic areas as well as a general understanding of important topics including clinical trial design, drug development, regulatory decision making and public policy.

Work with Early Development Teams and Product Development Committees to provide communications counsel and strategic guidance throughout product/candidate lifecycles.

Coordinate product and pipeline news with global Otsuka colleagues, affiliate companies to ensure aligned global product messaging and approach to key milestones.

Be a strategic counselor and go-to person for high-level communications strategy with management and product teams.

Provide high-level oversight of U.S. PR agency, helping to ensure high-quality deliverables that are both on time and on budget; Manage overall activities, resourcing and account budgets for the communication agency.

Serve as Corporate Communications & Marketing team lead and Core Launch Team Lead throughout the year and during annual Integrated Strategic planning for brand and pipeline teams in Nephrology/Immunology.

Measure and evaluate the effectiveness of External Communications programs to position Otsuka's products in competitive environments and demonstrate results to product functional teams, including Commercial and R&D.

Serve as key business partner for Corporate Communications & Marketing team as well as Corporate Affairs colleagues to ensure all programs are integrated and represent holistic CA Voice.

Maintain in-depth knowledge of brands, including strategic imperatives, media landscape, patient, caregiver and HCP needs, competitive intelligence, and apply this knowledge to communications approach.

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism or related industry required. Masters-level degree preferred.

Minimum of 12 years working in a pharmaceutical brand communications or related role with broad communications experience and expertise in product communications, launch preparation and media relations is required.

Thorough knowledge of, and demonstrated success, in managing communications programs in the healthcare or heavily regulated industry.

Strong analytical skills and business sense required.

Effective time management skills and an ability to work collaboratively or as an independent contributor to manage multiple assignments simultaneously are a must.

Exceptional written and presentation skills.

Strategic, creative, and collaborative approach to communications and program development.

Ability to learn the company's products, clinical development, commercialization strategy, the competition, and the pharmaceutical industry in general.

Familiarity with clinical data and milestone reporting.

Skilled in managing and influencing people in varying cultural settings.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Prior experience in nephrology, immunology and/or rare disease industries.

Relevant experience at a PR agency or in-house at another company is preferred.

Willing to travel up to 10-20% of time.

Minimum $183,335.00 - Maximum $274,160.00, plus incentive opportunity: The range shown represents a typical pay range or starting salary for candidates hired to perform the work. Other elements may be used to determine actual salary such as the candidate's job experience, specific skills, and comparison to internal incumbents currently in role. This information is provided to applicants in accordance with states and local laws.

Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage, company provided basic life, accidental death & dismemberment, short-term and long-term disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, student loan assistance, a generous 401(k) match, flexible time off, paid holidays, and paid leave programs as well as other company provided benefits.