Director, Policy Communications

Bristol Myers Squibb • Washington, DC

3d

About The Position

Reporting to the Executive Director, Policy, Purpose and Patient Communications, the Director, Policy Communications is responsible for translating the company’s policy messaging strategy into compelling, consistent communication materials that reach and resonate with targeted external and internal audiences—including media, influencers, mainstream digital platforms, and employees. Sitting within the Corporate Communications team, the Director of Policy Communications will support the development of integrated communications plans that elevate our policy voice, build visibility for our positions, and support the company’s broader policy goals. This position requires someone who understands the policy landscape but is firmly rooted in communications strategy—bringing expertise in message development, campaign planning, and narrative storytelling. The Director will work in close partnership with the Government Affairs and Policy team, ensuring our communications approach is grounded in the substance of our policy strategy and messaging, while also leveraging owned, earned, and social channels to drive impact. This role supports the connection between our policy expertise and our external storytelling.

Requirements

• Accomplished communications professional with 10 years + experience in policy communications, corporate communications, public relations agency or related field.
• University degree required.
• Expertise developing corporate communications plans aligning internal, external, and stakeholder communications against business priorities.
• Experience managing communications in crises, including creating clear directives and follow-through.
• Deep understanding of the US healthcare landscape, as well as the pharmaceutical industry and pricing/access issues.
• Superior written and interpersonal communications skills.
• Strong presentation and facilitation skills; ability to engage with and persuade a wide variety of audiences.

Nice To Haves

• Healthcare experience and a deep understanding of the pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry are preferred.
• Degree in Communications, Health Policy or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute integrated communications strategies, plans and materials to amplify the company’s policy messaging and positions.
• Proactively engage with the media to secure coverage of the company's policy positions and initiatives, as appropriate.
• Prepare and distribute press releases, statements, and other media materials related to policy issues.
• Support the creation of various communication materials, including talking points, op-eds, speeches, and social media for use through corporate channels.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure consistent messaging and alignment across all communication channels; ongoing partnership required with the International and U.S. Policy and Government Affairs teams.
• Co-lead the development and execution of crisis communication plans related to policy issues.
• Provide strategic counsel and support during crisis situations to protect and enhance the company's reputation.
• Develop messaging related to pricing of medicines in the US for responding to media.

Benefits

• Health Coverage: Medical, pharmacy, dental, and vision care.
• Wellbeing Support: Programs such as BMS Well-Being Account, BMS Living Life Better, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).
• Financial Well-being and Protection: 401(k) plan, short- and long-term disability, life insurance, accident insurance, supplemental health insurance, business travel protection, personal liability protection, identity theft benefit, legal support, and survivor support.
• Work-life benefits include: Paid Time Off US Exempt Employees: flexible time off (unlimited, with manager approval, 11 paid national holidays (not applicable to employees in Phoenix, AZ, Puerto Rico or Rayzebio employees) Phoenix, AZ, Puerto Rico and Rayzebio Exempt, Non-Exempt, Hourly Employees: 160 hours annual paid vacation for new hires with manager approval, 11 national holidays, and 3 optional holidays Based on eligibility, additional time off for employees may include unlimited paid sick time, up to 2 paid volunteer days per year, summer hours flexibility, leaves of absence for medical, personal, parental, caregiver, bereavement, and military needs and an annual Global Shutdown between Christmas and New Years Day.
• All global employees full and part-time who are actively employed at and paid directly by BMS at the end of the calendar year are eligible to take advantage of the Global Shutdown.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director