Head of External Affairs

Overview

Head of External Affairs Jobs in Midrand, South Africa at Sanofi

Head of External Affairs

This strategic leadership position supports the business by leading Public Affairs, Communication and BBEEE activities at the country level, ensuring alignment with Sanofi’s strategy and the national health agenda.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive Country Level External Affairs strategy on a yearly basis, encompassing Public Affairs, Communication and BBEEE aligned with Sanofi’s business objectives, therapeutic area priorities and global public affairs framework.
• Provide strategic counsel to the Country Lead, Country Council and senior management on political, policy and regulatory developments that may impact Sanofi’s operations.
• Anticipate and assess healthcare policy trends, legislative changes and political developments to inform Sanofi business strategy.
• Lead scenario planning and risk assessment for policy and regulatory changes.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with key government officials including Ministers of Health, Trade, Science & Innovation, Presidency office and Treasury.
• Serve as a primary representative in interactions with national and regional health authorities.
• Unlock / coordinate high‑level meetings, briefings and visits for government officials and key decision makers in accordance with Sanofi’s Government Engagement policy.
• Work closely with Market Access, Medical Affairs and Commercial teams to support product launches and lifecycle management through policy engagement and patient groups.
• Champion patient‑centered policies that improve health outcomes and healthcare system efficiency.
• Participate actively in industry associations and multi‑stakeholder platforms to advance shared policy objectives.
• Represent Sanofi in relevant industry working groups, task forces and advisory committees.
• Oversee corporate communications strategy and manage Sanofi’s corporate reputation with government and policy stakeholders.
• Lead a comprehensive media relations strategy, including proactive and reactive communications.
• Serve as the primary media spokesperson and manage executive media training.
• Manage press office operations, media inquiries and press release distribution.
• Coordinate media events, press conferences and journalist briefings.
• Develop and execute internal communications strategy to drive employee engagement and alignment with key departments (e.g., People & Culture).
• Manage executive communications, including town halls, leadership messages and change communications.
• Oversee digital communications strategy, including website content, social media and online reputation.
• Manage social media presence and engagement across relevant platforms.
• Coordinate digital campaigns and content marketing initiatives.
• Develop targeted communication strategies for key stakeholder groups, including patients, HCPs, government officials and industry partners.
• Lead the BBEEE strategy of the affiliate to remain in alignment with the country BBEEE vision and ambition.

Qualifications

• Education:

  Advanced degree (Master’s or higher) in public policy, political science, international relations, public health or related fields.

• Experience:

  10–15 years in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology or healthcare industry.

• Experience in risk management is advantageous.

Essential Competencies

• Ability to work transversally with a consistent team‑player spirit.
• English proficiency.
• Mastery of computer tools and software.
• High level of integrity and confidentiality.
• Autonomy; ability to handle tasks with little direction.
• Effective planning and organization skills.
• Attention to detail and excellent follow‑up skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage high volumes of work in a fast‑paced environment.
• Developed problem‑solving skills.

We provide equal opportunities to all regardless of race, colour, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, ability or gender identity. (EEO statement)

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Title: Head of External Affairs

Company: Sanofi

Location: Midrand, South Africa

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