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Proclinical is seeking an Associate Director for Policy & Patient Advocacy to join the External Affairs team on a maternity cover basis. This role focuses on shaping government and health service policies to support the development and adoption of treatments for rare diseases. You will work closely with stakeholders across policy, patient advocacy, and media to drive impactful strategies. This position is pivotal in advocating for reform in medicine assessment and approval processes in the UK and Ireland.
Responsibilities:
1. Lead external affairs efforts in rare diseases, including Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Motor Neurone Disease, and Friedreich's Ataxia.
2. Monitor the policy and political landscape to identify emerging issues and assess their impact on business objectives.
3. Inform internal teams about government initiatives or policies that may present opportunities or challenges.
4. Develop and advocate for company positions with policymakers, trade associations, patient advocacy groups, and other stakeholders.
5. Build and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including policymakers, patient associations, and media representatives.
6. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including commercial, medical, and access teams, to align strategies and objectives.
7. Represent the organization in trade associations to shape industry perspectives and external agendas.
8. Manage projects that support both disease-specific initiatives and broader efforts to enhance the access environment for rare diseases.
Key Skills and Requirements:
9. Expertise in policy and stakeholder engagement, with experience working with senior political and policy audiences.
10. Strong ability to build and maintain relationships with elected officials, government agencies, clinical leaders, and patient associations.
11. Experience managing complex, high-profile issues across policy, media, and patient advocacy landscapes.
12. Proven track record of representing organizations in trade associations and managing external agencies effectively.
13. Skilled in internal communication to ensure alignment and understanding of objectives across teams.
14. Ability to work collaboratively in matrix organizations and with global functions.
15. Demonstrated creativity, innovation, and strategic thinking in policy and advocacy execution.
16. Strong interpersonal skills, executive presence, and ability to influence without authority.
17. Excellent attention to detail, follow-through, and ability to prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
18. Educated to degree level, with relevant experience in policy, government, or public affairs.