Director, Head of Government Affairs

Job description

At the employer, we’re creating a healthier world for all people. For more than 35 years, we’ve tackled diseases such as HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19 and cancer - working relentlessly to develop therapies that help improve lives and to ensure access to these therapies across the globe. We continue to fight against the world’s biggest health challenges, and our mission requires collaboration, determination and a relentless drive to make a difference. Every member of the employer’s team plays a critical role in the discovery and development of life-changing scientific innovations. Our employees are our greatest asset as we work to achieve our bold ambitions, and we’re looking for the next wave of passionate and ambitious people ready to make a direct impact. We believe every employee deserves a great leader. People Leaders are the cornerstone to the employee experience at the employer and Kite. As a people leader now or in the future, you are the key driver in evolving our culture and creating an environment where every employee feels included, developed and empowered to fulfil their aspirations. Join the employer and help create possible, together. Job Description The Director, Government Affairs - Saudi Arabia and GCC, reports to the Executive Director, Head of Government Affairs, Intercontinental Region. The role serves as a member of both the Middle East Leadership Team and the Intercontinental Region Government Affairs Leadership Team. The Director is responsible for developing and executing Government Affairs strategies across Saudi Arabia and selected GCC markets, aligned with the employer's business priorities and public health objectives. Working closely with Commercial, Market Access, Medical Affairs, Public Affairs, Regulatory Affairs, Legal and Compliance, the position will shape the external policy environment to support value recognition, patient access and sustainable uptake of the employer's current and future innovations. The role will serve as a strategic advisor to the Saudi General Manager and Middle East leadership team, providing insight into healthcare policy, political, regulatory and market developments that impact the employer's business

Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in Government Affairs, Public Policy, Market Access, Public Affairs or related healthcare disciplines. Strong understanding of the healthcare and pharmaceutical policy environment in Saudi Arabia. Experience engaging with government stakeholders and healthcare authorities across Saudi Arabia and, ideally, the broader GCC region. Experience within the innovative biopharmaceutical industry preferred. Experience in virology, oncology, cell therapy or specialty medicines is desirable. Government Affairs Expertise: Proven track record of developing and executing successful Government Affairs and policy-shaping strategies. Experience influencing policy discussions related to healthcare access, innovation and public health. Understanding of healthcare transformation, localization strategies and economic participation frameworks is desirable. Ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments and deliver measurable outcomes. Leadership and Collaboration: Strong cross-functional leadership and stakeholder management capabilities. Ability to influence senior leaders internally and externally. Ability to work effectively across multiple countries and cultures. Strong executive presence and strategic mindset. Demonstrated ability to lead projects and initiatives through influence rather than direct authority.

Skills