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 HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Our innovative therapies have transformed lives, ensuring access to life-changing treatments worldwide. Headquartered in Foster City, California, Gilead fosters a culture of collaboration, determination, and relentless innovation. As we tackle the world's biggest health challenges, our employees drive scientific discoveries that make a profound difference. Join us to be part of a team shaping the future of medicine.

Role Overview

The Sr. Director, Public Affairs: Strategy & Operations is a pivotal leadership role reporting directly to the Senior Vice President of Public Affairs. Based in Foster City, California, this position leads global planning and operational excellence across all public affairs disciplines, including therapeutic area communications, international affairs, patient advocacy, corporate communications, and corporate responsibility. As a key member of the Global Public Affairs Leadership Team, you will craft a coherent strategic plan that aligns with Gilead's business objectives, enhances our brand, and protects our reputation. This role demands an influential executive who thrives in cross-functional partnerships with Commercial, Government Affairs, and Medical Affairs teams.

Strategic Impact

In this role, you will set annual priorities that maximize public affairs' impact on Gilead's goals in HIV treatments, oncology advancements, and inflammatory disease solutions. Leverage your expertise to integrate insights, data, and bold leadership for global synergy.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the charge in developing Gilead's Global Strategic Public Affairs plan, defining high-impact areas and implementing strategies worldwide. Ensure seamless alignment with commercial business planning from global to local levels, briefing affiliates for timely execution. Forge powerful relationships with the Public Affairs Leadership Team and cross-functional leaders, incorporating internal and external insights for proactive responses. Develop integrated dashboards, processes, and systems for public affairs operations. Strengthen public affairs influence in R&D, Medical, Commercial, and Government Affairs. Drive efficiency through function-wide projects on planning, metrics, evaluation, and culture development, including benchmarking and data analysis. Support SVP preparation for leadership meetings, manage cadences, and represent at senior forums. Partner with HR on competency plans in community engagement, advocacy, digital/social, therapy science, media, and business acumen. Establish reputational KPIs, apply real-time data insights, and leverage digital analytics and AI processes.

Qualifications & Requirements

Success in this role requires 15+ years of progressive experience in communications or public affairs within the biopharmaceutical or healthcare sector, with proven executive leadership. You must demonstrate exceptional strategic planning skills, business acumen, and the ability to influence senior stakeholders. Experience in global operations, cross-functional collaboration, and developing metrics/KPIs is essential. Preference for expertise in digital analytics, AI-empowered processes, and benchmarking. A bachelor's degree is required; an advanced degree in communications, business, or a related field is preferred. Strong analytical mindset, bold leadership, and passion for Gilead's mission in HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases are key.

Leadership Competencies

Excel as a people leader who evolves culture, empowers teams, and drives inclusion. Your ability to manage complex projects and deliver scalable solutions will set you apart.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead offers a premium compensation package, including a competitive salary estimated at $280,000-$380,000 annually, performance bonuses, and equity opportunities. Enjoy comprehensive health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness programs. Our Foster City campus provides modern facilities, flexible work options, and robust professional development. Additional perks include generous PTO, employee stock purchase plans, and access to cutting-edge resources supporting work-life balance.

Career Growth

At Gilead, people leaders are central to our culture. This role offers unparalleled growth, positioning you for further executive advancement. Benefit from tailored competency development, mentorship from SVP-level leaders, and exposure to global strategies. Expand your influence in biopharma public affairs while contributing to therapies revolutionizing HIV care, oncology treatments, and inflammatory disease management.

Why Join Gilead

Join Gilead to make a direct impact on global health. Work with passionate teams on bold ambitions in HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Our commitment to employee development ensures you thrive in an inclusive environment. Foster City, California, offers an ideal setting with proximity to innovation hubs. Be part of creating possible—together.

Role FAQs

Q: What is the reporting structure? A: Reports to the SVP of Public Affairs; manages the Associate Director, Data, Planning & Insights.
Q: Is relocation support available? A: Gilead supports competitive relocation packages for qualified candidates.
Q: What experience is required in digital tools? A: Preference for digital analytics and AI processes to drive insights.
Q: How does this role impact Gilead's mission? A: Directly advances business goals and reputation in key areas like HIV and oncology.
Q: Is this a hybrid role? A: Primarily based in Foster City with potential flexible arrangements.
Q: What are the next steps to apply? A: Submit your resume via Gilead's careers portal today.