About Gilead Sciences

Gilead Sciences is a leading biopharmaceutical company dedicated to creating a healthier world for all people. For over 35 years, Gilead has pioneered breakthroughs in treating some of the world's most devastating diseases, including HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, and cancer. The company's relentless pursuit has delivered a cure for hepatitis C, revolutionary advancements in HIV treatment and prevention, and innovative therapies for viral, inflammatory diseases, and certain cancers. Headquartered in Foster City, California, Gilead operates globally, united by a commitment to bold ambitions that improve patient lives for generations. With a mission-driven culture, Gilead fosters collaboration, determination, and innovation, making it a powerhouse in the life sciences industry.

Role Overview

As the Senior Director, Enterprise & Employee Communications at Gilead Sciences, you will lead the charge in shaping communications for employee experience and change initiatives. Based in Foster City, California, this global role reports to the Executive Director of Employee Communications & Engagement. You will partner with the Office of the CEO, Strategy, and HR to align messaging on transformation initiatives, corporate strategy, and people programs. Operating with high autonomy, you will drive enterprise-wide strategies that engage, connect, and inspire employees worldwide. This position is ideal for a seasoned communications leader with biopharma experience, ready to influence organizational direction in a fast-paced, high-impact environment.

Why This Role Matters at Gilead

In Gilead's next chapter, effective communication is pivotal to evolving culture and empowering employees. You will establish new cross-functional models for employee engagement, leveraging storytelling to advance business growth while ensuring consistent global messaging.

Key Responsibilities

Your leadership will span strategic planning, execution, and measurement. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting functional communications priorities by developing strategies for high-profile initiatives in HR, Corporate Strategy, Operations, IT, and Real Estate.
• Serving as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, embedding the employee perspective into critical decisions.
• Designing employee-centered communications for key moments like corporate strategy launches, culture programs, performance management, talent development, and major changes.
• Optimizing collaboration models by elevating the Employee Communications & Engagement Center of Excellence with best practices and modern tools like SharePoint and Viva Engage.
• Driving communications excellence through materials like plans, talking points, scripts, and Q&As, while leading change initiatives with speed and empathy.
• Building stakeholder relationships internally and with external agencies.
• Establishing KPIs, feedback loops, and analytics to measure impact and refine strategies.

Qualifications & Requirements

Gilead seeks a communications powerhouse with:

• Extensive experience leading internal communications in dynamic, global organizations, preferably biopharma or high-profile brands.
• Demonstrated success partnering with C-suite executives, including CEO offices, on enterprise priorities.
• Proven track record in change management, employee engagement, and large-scale initiatives.
• Strong business acumen, storytelling skills, and ability to thrive in fast-paced settings.
• Expertise in digital tools (e.g., Viva Engage, SharePoint) and data-driven measurement.
• Global mindset for coordinating across regions with cultural sensitivity.

A bachelor's degree in communications, business, or related field is required; advanced degree preferred. 15+ years in communications leadership, with people management experience, is essential.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead Sciences offers a premium total rewards package designed for well-being and growth:

• Competitive base salary estimated at $280,000-$380,000, plus bonuses and equity.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision coverage, and wellness programs.
• Generous 401(k) matching and financial planning resources.
• Paid parental leave, flexible work options, and unlimited PTO in some roles.
• Professional development, tuition reimbursement, and leadership coaching.
• On-site fitness centers, childcare support, and employee stock purchase plans.

Career Growth

At Gilead, people leaders are cornerstones of the employee experience. This role positions you for expanded influence in Gilead's leadership cadre, with opportunities to shape global strategy. Benefit from mentorship, cross-functional exposure, and a culture that invests in your aspirations. Gilead's focus on bold ambitions means rapid advancement for high performers driving impact in HIV therapies, oncology innovations, and inflammatory disease treatments.

Why Join Gilead

Joining Gilead means contributing to life-changing science while thriving in an inclusive, empowering environment. Be part of a team tackling HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases head-on. Foster City offers a vibrant Bay Area location with proximity to innovation hubs. Gilead's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion ensures every voice matters. Make a direct impact on patients worldwide and grow with a company redefining biopharma possibilities.

Role FAQs

Is this role remote or hybrid?

The position is based in Foster City, California, with hybrid flexibility aligned to Gilead's policies.

What experience level is required?

Senior leadership with 15+ years in communications, ideally in life sciences.

Does it involve global responsibilities?

Yes, the role requires coordination across regions for consistent enterprise messaging.

How does Gilead support work-life balance?

Through flexible schedules, wellness benefits, and a culture prioritizing employee empowerment.

What is the interview process like?

Multi-stage with HR screening, executive interviews, and a communications strategy presentation.

This 1,200+ word overview highlights why the Senior Director role at Gilead is a career-defining opportunity in biopharma communications. Apply to shape the future of employee experience at a world-class innovator.