Director External Communications (Presschef), AstraZeneca

One of the most challenging and meaningful Communications opportunities in Sweden is now available! Would you like to work in a Company that has taken a global leadership during the pandemic, a Company that is being recognised for its bold ambitions and targets within sustainability and that is advancing its science across four key therapy areas whilst continuing to focus on being a great place to work?

Then do continue reading.

Working at AstraZeneca means being entrepreneurial, thinking big and working together to make the impossible a reality. The work we do here is meaningful. Every action we take is focused on putting our patients first, and they add up to something bigger.

The Director, External Communications Sweden leads all aspects of implementation of communications strategies and supports planning and execution to deliver against the Swedish´s market and global external communications priorities. This includes: media relations, digital channels, including social media, crisis communications, advocacy and corporate reputation.

The role holder leads a team of communication experts within media relations and digital comms and reports to the Head of Sweden Corporate Affairs, Nordics, Global Sustainability and Chairman's Office.

You will be based at our vibrant site in Södertälje.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

We are looking for a Communications professional with significant media experience, either as a former journalist or experienced media relations director who would be passionate about having a role that has both a local and global focus.

Given the company's footprint in Sweden, with a large R&D center in

Gothenburg and extensive manufacturing in Södertälje, as well as our listing at Nasdaq Stockholm in Sweden the main focus would be local. However, the opportunities for global impact is notable and the development opportunities in the global organisation should be encouraging for the right talent!

In this role you will also be responsible for corporate messages and alignments of these across the various functions, as well as developing the communications skills for senior leaders and spokespersons.

As the Company's primary spokesperson in the region you would be used to working out of office hours when needed.

As part of this role you will also be involved in the Company's crisis preparedness, you will work on external affairs matters as well as with Investor Relations on issues, events and opportunities.

Essential Requirements

* Strong communications experience and proven ability to identify and utilise various channels proactively to drive value
* Great understanding and knowledge of the Swedish media landscape, preferably experience from top tier media within science or financial segments and solid digital and social media understanding
* Healthcare expertise is desirable, but not essential. Previous experience from other highly regulated sectors will be considered an asset
* Successful track record of dealing with critical issues and corporate crisis situations is required. General understanding of, and interest in corporate governance. Practical understanding of financial reporting and disclosure requirements at a large publicly listed company a distinct advantage
* Ability to understand issues and influence decision-makers in complicated and complex situations
* Strong planning and systematic thinking, including project management
* Proven capabilities in training and mentoring senior leaders

Desirable Requirements

* Excellent written and verbal skills in English and Swedish is essential. Other Nordic language skills would be highly appreciated
* Strong interpersonal, communication, and influencing abilities
* Strong curiosity about science and what science can do
* High energy and drive, coupled with accountability for delivery and performance
* Excellent eye for detail, including visual and verbal identity
* High level of integrity, able to handle highly confidential information
* Entrepreneurial approach, including creativity and a desire to challenge the status quo.



If you are interested, apply now!



Welcome with your application no later than November 22nd, 2021.

We will screen and interview candidates on a continuous basis.



Why AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, innovation-driven biopharmaceutical business that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of prescription medicines for some of the world's most serious diseases. But we're more than one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies. At AstraZeneca, we're proud to have a unique workplace culture that inspires innovation and collaboration. Here, employees are empowered to express diverse perspectives - and are made to feel valued, energized and rewarded for their ideas and creativity.

Where can I find out more?

Follow AstraZeneca on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/1603/

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