About Gilead Sciences

Gilead Sciences is a biopharmaceutical leader dedicated to creating a healthier world for all. For over 35 years, Gilead has pioneered therapies for HIV/AIDS, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Headquartered in Foster City, California, the company drives scientific innovation to improve lives globally, with a strong focus on access to medicines in underserved regions. Gilead's portfolio includes groundbreaking antivirals like Biktarvy for HIV and Epclusa for hepatitis C, alongside oncology advancements such as Trodelvy and Yescarta through its Kite Pharma subsidiary. The company's commitment to collaboration, determination, and impact positions it at the forefront of addressing the world's biggest health challenges.

Role Overview

The Senior Director, Public Affairs (GPS Region) at Gilead Sciences is a pivotal leadership role based in Foster City, California. Reporting to the Executive Director, Intercontinental Region and GPS, this position drives integrated advocacy and communications strategies to amplify priorities, strengthen reputation, and expand access to innovation in low- and lower-middle-income countries. This leader builds partnerships with patient organizations, ensures message discipline across channels, and delivers measurable impact through data-driven insights. Ideal for seasoned professionals passionate about global health equity, the role demands strategic vision, stakeholder influence, and crisis readiness in a dynamic biopharma environment.

Key Responsibilities

In this high-impact position, you'll spearhead advocacy and external affairs to advance Gilead's leadership across regions and therapeutic areas like HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Key duties include building strategic partnerships with patient groups, NGOs, and influencers; developing integrated engagement plans; and driving global access strategies. You'll oversee external communications, from media relations and thought leadership to digital amplification, while maintaining consistency across channels. Internal efforts focus on employee engagement and narrative alignment. Proactively manage issues and crises with robust protocols, track reputational KPIs, and scale enablement tools globally. Finally, leverage analytics for continuous optimization of advocacy, communications, and access programs.

Advocacy & External Affairs

Shape policy environments and strengthen access operations through partnerships and events.

Communications Strategy

Execute media, digital, and storytelling initiatives tailored to priority geographies.

Issues & Reputation Management

Monitor risks, define KPIs, and mitigate proactively with data insights.

Qualifications & Requirements

Success requires 15+ years in public affairs, corporate communications, or advocacy within biopharmaceuticals, ideally with GPS or emerging market experience. Candidates must demonstrate proven leadership in building patient and NGO partnerships, crisis management, and integrated communications strategies. Expertise in low- and lower-middle-income countries, message discipline across channels, and data analytics for measurement is essential. A bachelor's degree in communications, public policy, or related field is required; an advanced degree or MBA is preferred. Strong interpersonal skills, global mindset, and ability to influence cross-functionally are critical. Experience in HIV, oncology, or inflammatory diseases advocacy is a plus.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead Sciences offers a premium total rewards package. Enjoy competitive base salary with upside potential, annual bonuses, and long-term incentives. Comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision coverage, and wellness programs. Financial perks feature 401(k) matching, employee stock purchase, and tuition reimbursement. Support work-life balance with unlimited PTO, generous parental leave, and flexible hybrid work options at the Foster City HQ. Additional perks include onsite fitness centers, childcare services, and volunteer time off to give back to communities.

Career Growth

As a people leader at Gilead, you'll drive cultural evolution and employee empowerment. This Sr Director role offers visibility to executive leadership and opportunities to shape global strategies. Gilead invests in development through leadership academies, mentorship, and stretch assignments across therapeutic areas. High performers advance to VP-level roles in public affairs, corporate affairs, or international operations, with a track record of internal promotions fostering long-term careers.

Why Join Gilead

Join Gilead to make a direct impact on global health. Work on life-changing innovations in HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases while expanding access worldwide. Foster City HQ provides a collaborative, inclusive environment with top-tier resources. Be part of a mission-driven team relentless in pursuit of bold ambitions, supported by great leaders and a culture of inclusion and development.

Role FAQs

What is the reporting structure?

This role reports to the Executive Director, Intercontinental Region and GPS.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Gilead offers competitive relocation support for qualified candidates.

What therapeutic areas are prioritized?

Focus includes HIV, oncology, inflammatory diseases, and viral hepatitis in GPS regions.

Is hybrid work available?

Yes, flexible hybrid model at Foster City headquarters.

How does Gilead measure success?

Through KPIs in advocacy impact, reputation metrics, access expansion, and communications reach.