Head of Public Affairs, Brazil

About the role

Novartis is looking for an experienced executive to lead its Public Affairs strategy in Brazil, shaping the policy and stakeholder environment that supports sustainable access to innovation and better patient outcomes. The role sits at the intersection of policy, business, healthcare systems and society, and is open to hybrid work (about 3 days a week in the office). It is a highly visible leadership position for someone who leads and develops high-performing teams.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and run an integrated public affairs, policy and stakeholder engagement strategy aligned with business priorities and patient needs in Brazil.
• Monitor, analyse and communicate political, legislative, regulatory and healthcare policy developments that affect Novartis, patients and the healthcare system.
• Shape policy discussions and advocacy initiatives that support sustainable access to innovation and stronger healthcare systems.
• Build trusted relationships with government officials, policymakers, industry associations, think tanks, academia, NGOs and patient organisations.
• Advise senior business leaders on politics, policy and external risks, and lead advocacy and issue management in line with compliance standards.
• Represent Novartis in trade associations and external forums, and build a high-performing public affairs team.
• Ensure timely reporting of technical complaints, adverse events and special cases in line with company policy and regulations.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Law, International Relations, Economics, Public Policy or a related field.
• Significant experience in public affairs, government affairs, healthcare policy or market access in pharma, healthcare or life sciences.
• Deep knowledge of Brazil's healthcare system, policy environment and legislative processes.
• Proven success influencing complex policy environments and building relationships with senior external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated leadership experience and ability to advise senior executives.
• Fluent Portuguese and English, written and spoken.
• Desirable: advanced degree, regional or global matrix experience, and experience representing an organisation in industry associations or coalitions.

Required skills

• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, negotiation and influencing skills.
• Public affairs, political analysis and media relations.

What we offer

• Competitive salary and annual bonus.
• Life insurance, retirement and wellbeing plans, and health insurance.
• Home office twice a week, flexible working arrangements and a birthday day off.
• Parental leave, subsidised dining, employee recognition platform, Gympass and employee resource groups.