[Hiring] Associate Director, Strategic Communications and Organizational Engagement @Merck

Role Description

The Associate Director, Organizational Engagement reports to the Chief of Staff (CoS) of the Senior Vice President (SVP) of Global Clinical Trial Operations (GCTO) and plays a key role in shaping and executing the strategic communications for GCTO’s global workforce of over 10,000 employees. This role serves as a strategic advisor to the GCTO leadership team and is responsible for developing and implementing enterprise-wide communication strategies that enhance organizational effectiveness, employee engagement, and change readiness across a highly matrixed and regulated environment.

The ideal candidate is an exceptional communicator with deep expertise in:

• Strategic communications
• Change management
• Cross-functional and workforce engagement
• Exceptional digital acumen skills, including the responsible use of AI

This role engages with the SVP, GCTO and the leadership team as a strategic partner and advisor, developing engagement and change management strategies in alignment with GCTO’s strategic priorities, goals, and branding guidelines. Responsibilities include:

• Development and maintenance of GCTO’s communications framework
• Support planning and delivery of GCTO events
• Day-to-day partnership with GCTO leaders for internal messaging, executive communications, and presentation materials

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 8 years of experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry, clinical trial operations, operations, or relevant field
• OR Advanced degree (Masters or Doctorate) with a minimum of 4 years of experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry, data management, clinical trial operations, operations, or relevant field
• A minimum of 3 years overseeing communication planning in a global, matrixed organization

Requirements

• Ability to translate technical and scientific subject matter into clear narratives for target audiences
• Advanced skills in SharePoint Online administration and page design
• Experience with enterprise communications tools (e.g., email/newsletter platforms, survey tools)
• Expertise in interpreting campaign/channel analytics
• Deep knowledge of internal communications controls and brand/tone standards
• Experience in applying project management tools and methods
• Demonstrates working proficiency with enterprise-approved digital, data, and AI tools
• Certification Standard: Holds and maintains GCTO Elevate – Beginner (minimum) within first 6 months in role

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family)
• Retirement benefits, including 401(k)
• Paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days