Director, Science and Regulatory Policy Europe in London

Director, Science and Regulatory Policy Europe in London

London Full-Time 100000 - 150000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
MSD in the UK

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead strategic policy initiatives to support R&D and influence European science agendas.
  • Company: Dynamic pharmaceutical company focused on innovation and scientific leadership.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Collaborative team environment with global reach and significant career advancement potential.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of science policy and make a real impact in healthcare innovation.
  • Qualifications: Degree in science or health policy; experience in regulatory environments preferred.

The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.

The Science and Regulatory Policy (SRP) team advocates for policy priorities that support the pipeline and portfolio for Research & Development and helps achieve our business goals.

Working with all R&D divisions, we define and implement a prioritised policy and advocacy plan to advance business goals.

We are recruiting for a

Director, Science and Regulatory Policy Europe to be based in Moorgate, London (primary location). Other European locations such as Spain and Portugal will also be considered.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and deliver strategic leadership for policy priorities to support our pipeline and portfolio.
  • Advocate for and anticipate policy change that affects our research and development activities worldwide and the innovation environment.
  • Advise and provide insights to R&D senior leadership on critical developments in the global policy environment that impact our pipeline and portfolio.
  • Take leadership for coordinating and aligning policy development and activity across research and development, with focus on the Development and Regulatory organisations.
  • Lead strategy and coordination of R&D External Policy relationships to meet priorities.
  • Build our company’s share of voice and influence extramurally to support the company enterprise policy agenda.
  • Shape and influence European science, evidence, and data/digital policy agendas to proactively enable R&D productivity, scientific leadership, and competitive pipeline advancement.
  • Drive early translation of emerging policy, legislative, and regulatory developments into decision‑ready insights, risks, and strategic options for pipeline, portfolio, evidence generation, and access.
  • Set and advance company policy priorities on European science, evidence, data governance, and advanced digital technologies, ensuring alignment with R&D scientific strategy and enterprise innovation objectives.
  • Lead the development and execution of coordinated company policy positions and advocacy strategies on European legislative and regulatory initiatives, mobilising cross‑functional alignment to shape outcomes.
  • Provide strategic leadership on European data and advanced digital technology policy, including data integrity, privacy, security, AI/ML, digital health, and cloud‑enabled collaboration, to accelerate science and scale innovation.
  • Build and leverage strategic relationships with European and globally influential policymakers, regulators, research institutions, and multilateral organisations to anticipate inflection points and influence policy direction.
  • Position the company as a science‑led industry leader by representing our company in external policy forums, industry associations, and professional settings.
  • Deliver forward‑looking policy analyses and executive briefings that inform senior R&D and company leadership on strategic choices, trade‑offs, and actions.

Qualifications

  • University Degree in science, health care, public health or health policy required; a master’s degree in science, health care, public health, health policy or law is preferred.
  • Substantial experience in pharmaceutical, biotech, regulatory, or science policy environments.
  • Proven experience in developing and articulating science‑based policy positions, white papers, comment letters, and briefing materials for senior leadership and external stakeholders.
  • Experience engaging in global science policy environments, including US and European legislative, regulatory, and policy frameworks.
  • Experience advising senior leaders on science policy implications, risk, and strategic positioning.
  • Strong relationship management and interpersonal skills with superb written and oral communication, analytic thinking, excellent presentation, and negotiation skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a cross‑functional team environment with a global mindset.
  • Excellent command of English (written and spoken).
  • Data savvy with an eye for detail.
  • Postgraduate degree in science policy, health policy, or law is preferred.
  • Skilled with AI, Data and Real World Evidence is preferred.
  • Broad understanding of pharmaceutical R&D, including clinical development, evidence generation, or innovative development approaches is preferred.
  • Demonstrated leadership or active participation in industry trade associations, scientific societies, or multi‑stakeholder policy initiatives is preferred.
  • Experience in working in the field of pharmaceutical/biotechnology development is preferred.
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Director, Science and Regulatory Policy Europe in London employer: MSD in the UK

MSD is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, particularly within its European Hub in London. Employees benefit from a hybrid work model, competitive compensation, and opportunities for professional growth in the dynamic fields of Immunology and Infectious Diseases. With a commitment to scientific excellence and impactful partnerships, MSD provides a meaningful environment for those looking to make a difference in biopharmaceuticals.

MSD in the UK

Contact Details:

MSD in the UK Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Director, Science and Regulatory Policy Europe in London

Dive into Local Government Events

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Utilise Your University’s Resources

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We think you need these skills to ace Director, Science and Regulatory Policy Europe in London

Strategic Leadership
Policy Development
Advocacy Skills
Regulatory Knowledge
Relationship Management
Analytic Thinking
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.

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Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for MSD in the UK and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.

How to prepare for a job interview at MSD in the UK

Get to Know Public Sector Values

Before your interview with MSD in the UK, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.

Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge

Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.

Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration

The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!

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