Head of Executive Communications

Roche seeks a Head of Executive Communications in Basel to lead the Group Communications team, shaping the company's global voice and managing strategic messaging for its senior leadership.

This position sits within Group Communications and is tasked with building a positive, lasting reputation for Roche on a global scale. The incumbent will direct a team of specialists to craft and implement communication strategies for the company’s highest-level executives, including the Board of Directors and Corporate Executive Committee.

Responsibilities

• Define the vision, strategy, and objectives for the executive communications team while providing day-to-day leadership.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop team members to maximize their potential and keep skills current with industry trends.
• Collaborate with cross-functional groups to provide expert guidance on external engagement and communications.
• Break down organizational silos to share insights and best practices across different business units.
• Develop strategic agendas for speaking engagements and co-create communication plans for Roche’s top leaders.
• Write key materials such as speeches, talking points, briefings, video scripts, and internal messages for executives.
• Conduct rehearsal sessions and provide coaching on delivery, including Q&A preparation and performance feedback.
• Assist the Global Head of External Engagement in preparing talking points for media interviews.
• Participate in the preparation of quarterly business results reporting.

Requirements

• A university degree in Communications or a closely related discipline.
• Over ten years of professional experience in communications, ideally within healthcare, biotechnology, or a similar sector, with a global perspective.
• Proven track record of leading large-scale teams.
• Strong ability to thrive in fast-paced, matrixed, and multicultural work environments.
• Native-level fluency in both English and German, with excellent written and verbal skills in both languages.

Nice to have

• Prior experience working with PR agencies that serve pharmaceutical or healthcare clients.
• Background in public affairs, media relations, issues management, or executive communications.

About the company

Roche is committed to advancing science to ensure everyone has access to healthcare. The company fosters a culture of personal expression, open dialogue, and genuine connections, where employees are valued and respected. Staff are empowered to explore new possibilities and drive creativity to deliver life-changing healthcare solutions.

• Encourages personal expression and open dialogue.
• Values genuine connections among employees.
• Dedicated to advancing science for universal healthcare access.
• Empowers staff to foster creativity and deliver impactful solutions.