THE OPPORTUNITY

Reporting to the CEO, we are seeking an SVP, Corporate Communications, responsible for leading External and Internal Communications, Public Relations, and Patient Advocacy for Vir. This role will lead a holistic communications strategy, by creating and executing a comprehensive messaging and engagement strategy. By developing a deep understanding of Vir's business, this person will provide strategic counsel to leaders and their communications needs. The ideal candidate has significant depth of expertise and contacts in traditional and digital media, experience with internal communications, demonstrates understanding of business strategies and executive priorities, and is a critical thinker with strong problem-solving skills. They are highly curious, collaborative, adapts to change and ambiguity, understand the big picture but are also able to connect dots, and helps leaders communicate their strategic priorities.

This role is based in San Francisco and requires 4 days a week onsite.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Strategic Communication: Develop and complete an essential, comprehensive communications roadmap that aligns with our business objectives, positioning us as a global leader in biotech.
• Internal Communications: Develop and implement internal communication strategies that foster employee engagement, alignment, and understanding during times of transformation; collaborate with HR on internal communications and change management initiatives.
• Executive Communications: Create a strong executive/c-suite voice and compelling internal/external communications to optimally position Vir. Must have existing relationships with top-tier media and journalists.
• External Communications: Build, lead, and implement strategies that promote and protect Vir’s brand and reputation, including media relations; serve as the company spokesperson on a range of topics and issues.
• Serve as primary contact with the media and actively manage and direct external agency partners
• Build and enhance relationships with external media outlets including news, business,
  and industry trade publications, with both traditional and digital media; garner local, regional and national coverage of Vir to meet objectives
• Lead development of all PR materials, including press releases, Q&As, website content, executive talking points, fact sheets, etc., in collaboration with external agency colleagues, our corporate partners, and internal colleagues in Investor Relations, Government Affairs & Policy, Legal, Alliance Management, and other parts of the organization
• Prepare company spokespeople for media interviews and other engagements, including training spokespeople, as needed, and ensuring that company’s most frequent spokespeople are prepared to address key issues as they emerge
• Recommend external opportunities, including media interviews, speaking engagements at industry conferences, and other forums to showcase Vir thought leadership
• Define and manage the strategy, planning, and implementation of a robust social media presence
• Lead the coordination of communications efforts within Vir. Be the strategic hub for well-coordinated and organized communications across multiple internal groups. Work collaboratively with colleagues across the organization to ensure alignment and visibility of communications initiatives across functions
• Leadership: Lead, inspire, develop and manage a Corporate Communications Team, including contractors, to deliver on goals and business results.
• Crisis Communication: Develop crisis communication protocols and strategies to proactively address potential reputational risks and effectively manage crises if they arise.
• Corporate Responsibility: Partner with Legal, HR and EHS to define and implement an enterprise-wide CR/ESG strategy aligned with Vir’s corporate priorities.
• Life Sciences Expertise: Leverage your knowledge of the life sciences industry to shape narratives that resonate with our partners and position us as an inspiring, leading organization.
• Public Company Expertise: Support communications strategy and tactics in a highly regulated industry with deep knowledge of the obligations of a publicly traded company.
• M&A Communication: Apply your experience in managing communications during M&A to guide the essential communication efforts associated with future growth.

WHO YOU ARE AND WHAT YOU BRING

• 18 years of proven experience in leadership roles within communications and public relations, with a minimum of 8-10 years in biotech/pharmaceuticals
• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field; advanced degree preferred
• Demonstrated experience crafting and executing successful traditional media, social media, and internal communications strategies
• Experience working with high performing teams and demonstrated ability to collaborate, lead, facilitate, influence, and organize across groups and at multiple levels of an organization
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
• Understanding of SEC and FDA regulations impacting communications
• Experience in crisis communication and issues management.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong relationships with media, stakeholders, and key industry influencers, including existing relationships with top-tier media and journalists.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate business goals into effective communication strategies.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to inspire and mentor a team.