Principal Medical Writer

Principal Medical Writer

City of London Full-Time 48000 - 84000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the creation of engaging scientific content and mentor junior writers.
  • Company: Join a leading global healthcare communications agency making a difference in medical communications.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, generous holiday, and health support.
  • Why this job: Make a significant impact while collaborating in a people-focused culture with growth opportunities.
  • Qualifications: 5+ years in Medical Writing, strong scientific background, and excellent communication skills required.
  • Other info: This role offers a chance to shape project strategy and engage directly with clients.

The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.

Job Description

Principal Medical Writer – Pharma Advertising

Overview

We’re looking for a Principal Medical Writer with strong pharma advertising agency experience to take a lead role across multiple accounts. As a senior member of the writing team, you’ll be responsible not only for delivering outstanding promotional content but also for shaping strategy, building client relationships, and supporting the growth of junior writers.

This role requires someone with 5+ years’ experience in promotional medical writing, confident in working independently and acting as the primary content lead on complex projects. You’ll combine scientific expertise with creative flair to produce work that’s both accurate and engaging, while ensuring brand consistency across all deliverables.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead writer across accounts – take full ownership of content delivery, from sales aids and digital platforms to websites, leavepieces, and objection handlers.
  • Strategic partner to clients – advise on content strategy, engage directly with clients and review teams, and confidently present work.
  • Cross-functional collaboration – work closely with account management, creative, and scientific teams to ensure content meets objectives and delivers impact.
  • Quality and consistency – set high editorial standards across projects, providing oversight and guidance to ensure messaging remains on-brand and compliant.
  • Mentorship and leadership – actively support and develop junior and midweight writers, providing feedback and helping to grow their skills.
  • Pitch and business development support – contribute to new business through research, therapy area insight, and presentation of ideas.

Skills & Experience

  • Degree in Healthcare or Biological Sciences (or related discipline).
  • 5+ years’ promotional medical writing experience in a pharma advertising agency setting.
  • Proven track record as lead writer on multiple accounts.
  • Strong client-facing communication skills, comfortable advising and presenting.
  • Excellent scientific understanding, with the ability to translate data into clear, engaging stories.
  • Fully trained in Veeva Vault Promomats.
  • Detail-oriented, organised, and adept at balancing multiple priorities.

Bonus Skills

  • Experience leading larger teams of writers.
  • Deep knowledge of US and EU pharma markets.
  • Demonstrated involvement in business development or pitching.

Principal Medical Writer employer: Meet Life Sciences

Join a leading global healthcare communications agency in London, where you will thrive in a collaborative and people-focused culture that prioritises professional growth and development. With a hybrid working model, competitive salary, and generous benefits, this role as a Principal Medical Writer offers the chance to lead impactful projects while mentoring junior colleagues and shaping the future of healthcare communications.
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Contact Detail:

Meet Life Sciences Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal Medical Writer

✨Tip Number 1

Network with professionals in the medical communications field. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or local meetups to connect with potential colleagues and clients. Building relationships can often lead to job opportunities that aren't advertised.

✨Tip Number 2

Stay updated on the latest trends and developments in medical writing and healthcare communications. Follow relevant journals, blogs, and social media accounts to ensure you are knowledgeable about current practices and innovations in the industry.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by practising your responses to common questions related to leadership and strategic thinking in medical writing. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've led teams or contributed to significant outcomes.

✨Tip Number 4

Showcase your mentoring experience during discussions with potential employers. Highlight how you've supported junior writers in their development, as this is a key aspect of the Principal Medical Writer role.

We think you need these skills to ace Principal Medical Writer

Medical Writing Expertise
Scientific Background in Life Sciences
Strategic Thinking
Client Relationship Management
Mentoring and Coaching Skills
Attention to Detail
Quality Control Knowledge
Project Management
Time Management
Regulatory Compliance Awareness
Interpersonal Communication Skills
Ability to Work Under Pressure
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Content Development Across Therapeutic Areas

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in medical writing, particularly any leadership roles or projects you've managed. Emphasise your scientific background and any specific therapeutic areas you have expertise in.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for medical communications and detail how your experience aligns with the role's requirements. Mention specific examples of how you've led projects or mentored junior writers to showcase your leadership skills.

Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, ensure that your application materials are well-written and free of errors. Use clear and concise language to demonstrate your ability to convey complex information effectively.

Highlight Continuous Learning: Mention any recent training, certifications, or industry events you've attended that relate to medical writing or healthcare communications. This shows your commitment to staying updated with industry trends and regulatory guidelines.

How to prepare for a job interview at Meet Life Sciences

✨Showcase Your Scientific Expertise

As a Principal Medical Writer, your scientific background is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your qualifications and how they relate to the role. Highlight any specific therapeutic areas you have experience in, and be ready to explain complex concepts in a way that demonstrates your understanding.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

This role requires mentoring junior writers and leading client accounts. Share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully guided a team or managed projects. Emphasise your ability to provide strategic direction and how you've contributed to the development of others.

✨Prepare for Client Interaction Scenarios

Since you'll be acting as the primary contact for clients, practice how you would handle various client scenarios. Think about how you would approach discussions around project strategy, feedback, and compliance. Being able to articulate your approach will show your readiness for the role.

✨Stay Updated on Industry Trends

Being knowledgeable about the latest developments in medical communications and regulatory guidelines is essential. Research current trends and be prepared to discuss how they might impact the role. This shows your commitment to staying informed and your proactive approach to your work.

Principal Medical Writer
Meet Life Sciences
Location: City of London
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