Head of Communications & Patient Advocacy UK

Job Description Summary

Head of Communications & Patient Advocacy, UK

#LI-Hybrid

Location: London, United Kingdom

Drive the voice and reputation of Novartis UK at a pivotal moment in healthcare and innovation. As Head of Communications & Patient Advocacy, UK, you will shape how we engage with patients, media, policymakers, and society—translating insight into impact. Sitting on the Country Leadership Team, you will influence strategic decisions, lead a high-performing team, and deliver integrated communications and patient advocacy strategies that elevate our reputation, accelerate business outcomes, and ultimately improve patients’ lives across the UK.

 

Job Description

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead Communications and Patient Advocacy strategy, aligning with UK business priorities and enterprise objectives
• Serve as trusted advisor to Country President and leadership team on communications and reputation matters
• Drive integrated corporate, therapeutic area, and patient advocacy campaigns using data-driven insights
• Build and manage strategic relationships with media, patient groups, influencers, and key external stakeholders
• Oversee crisis and issues management, ensuring timely and effective response and mitigation strategies
• Collaborate across functions and geographies to deliver consistent, impactful and integrated communications
• Represent Novartis UK externally as spokesperson in industry forums, partnerships, and media engagements
• Lead, develop, and inspire a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, curiosity, and growth

Essential Requirements:

• Degree required; advanced degree preferred (Public Policy, International Relations, Political Science, Communications, or related field)
• Extensive experience in communications and patient advocacy within complex, regulated environments
• Proven expertise across corporate communications, media relations, crisis management, and stakeholder engagement
• Strong leadership capabilities with experience building and developing high-performing teams
• Strategic mindset with the ability to translate insights into impactful business outcomes
• Excellent written and spoken English communication skills

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams representative of the patients and communities we serve. 

 

Skills Desired

Business Strategy, Communication Medium, Computer Network, Computer Programming, Creative Direction, Creativity, Leadership, Manufacturing Production, Media Strategy, Press Releases, Social Media, Team Player