Senior Communications Specialist

SENIOR COMMUNICATIONS/PR SPECIALIST - PHARMACEUTICALS - HERTFORDSHIRE - £300-450 PER DAY - 7 MONTHS

Responsible for inputting to and overseeing the development and management of PR programmes to support priorities of the Divisions (Diabetes, Commercial) and providing communications counsel to marketing and medical colleagues.

The role, supported by specialist PR agencies, and working closely with the relevant brand teams, is accountable for leading the development of effective communications strategy and initiatives that will generate impact for key therapy/product areas. Building on opportunities: to enhance the position of core/commercial brands, to shape and secure the potential of products within the portfolio; whilst developing and protecting the interests, and reputation of the clients brands and therapy areas in the UK and Ireland.

As a primary contact for UK media the role involves maintaining the media office function and leading on media contact programmes, working closely with the Communications Director.

To achieve success it is critical that the Senior Communications Specialist:

- Builds & maintains the clients reputation externally with media and patient groups
- Works collaboratively with the Divisions to promote programmes externally

The role has a strong focus (75%) on supporting the clients Diabetes franchise in the UK/Ireland

SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:
* First degree in relevant discipline
* Significant experience in developing and implementing effective, high-profile brand communications strategies, ideally in a healthcare setting
* Significant experience in simultaneously managing high-profile and complex issues and crisis situations, ideally within a healthcare setting
* Ability to rapidly assimilate complex issues, including those that are scientifically complex
* Excellent communication ability to lead/drive strategically & operationally
* Project management skills and experience of working across functional and organisational boundaries
* Excellent understanding of the UK ( agendas, drivers
* Good understanding of UK NHS and current healthcare policy and future drivers of change