At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic policy and access programmes for healthcare clients, providing high-quality counsel.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at Syneos Health, a leader in PR & External Affairs.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on innovation and emerging technologies.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare by solving complex challenges and driving change.
- Qualifications: Experience in health policy, market access, and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced Associate Director to help shape and scale our growing Policy & Access practice within PR & External Affairs. This role focuses on strengthening and expanding a Europe-based practice that supports clients navigating complex policy, access, and healthcare system challenges.
The successful candidate will work closely with colleagues across the Syneos network to develop integrated solutions that combine policy, access, communications, advocacy and stakeholder engagement expertise. The role requires expertise in health policy, market access or healthcare systems, combined with strong consultancy, leadership, and relationship‑building skills. The Associate Director will provide strategic counsel to clients, lead business growth and practice development, and strengthen the role of policy and access expertise across the wider PR & External Affairs business.
We are looking for someone who enjoys solving complex problems, working collaboratively with colleagues and clients, and identifying opportunities to create greater impact.
Candidate Profile- Has significant experience in health policy, market access, healthcare systems, public affairs or a related field.
- Has experience leading client programs and providing strategic counsel to pharmaceutical, biotechnology or healthcare organizations.
- Is intellectually curious and enjoys tackling complex healthcare challenges.
- Is comfortable operating in ambiguity and helping clients navigate uncertainty.
- Can build trusted relationships with clients, colleagues and external stakeholders.
- Has experience leading, mentoring and developing teams.
- Demonstrates a proactive, growth‑oriented mindset and the ability to identify opportunities beyond the immediate brief.
- Brings strong communication, research, analytical and consultancy skills.
- Enjoys working collaboratively across disciplines, functions and geographies.
- Demonstrates an openness to emerging technologies, including the application of AI‑enabled tools to enhance strategic thinking, client solutions and ways of working.
- Health policy, health systems and access environments in one or more of Europe, LATAM and APAC regions.
- Market access, HTA, reimbursement or evidence‑generation programs.
- Business development and organic growth.
- Lead strategic policy and access programs for pharmaceutical and biotechnology clients.
- Provide high‑quality strategic counsel on healthcare policy, market access and health system challenges.
- Identify and lead on both organic growth and new business development.
- Contribute to the continued development and growth of the Policy & Access practice.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues across PR & EA, Medical Communications, Commercial, Clinical and other Syneos business units to develop integrated client solutions.
- Support the development of team members through coaching, mentoring and leadership.
- Monitor emerging healthcare policy and access trends and translate them into actionable client insights.
- Contribute to thought leadership, capability development and innovation across the practice.
- Client Impact: Deliver high‑quality strategic counsel and programs that help clients achieve their objectives. Build trusted relationships with clients and become a valued advisor.
- Practice Growth: Contribute to revenue growth through organic expansion and new business opportunities. Support the development of new capabilities, services and thought leadership. Help strengthen and expand the Policy & Access practice within PR & External Affairs.
- Collaboration: Build strong relationships across the Syneos network and contribute to integrated client solutions. Actively support collaboration across European and international teams.
- Leadership: Develop and support team members to achieve their potential. Contribute positively to the culture, reputation and long‑term success of the practice.
- Personal Development: Continue to build expertise, networks and leadership capabilities. Develop a personal profile aligned to the growth ambitions of the practice and broader business.
Associate Director, Policy and Access in London employer: Syneos Health Communications
Syneos Health is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, particularly for the Associate Director, Policy and Access role based in Europe. Employees benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, mentorship, and the chance to work on impactful projects that address complex healthcare challenges. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, Syneos Health empowers its team members to thrive while contributing to meaningful change in the healthcare landscape.
Contact Details:
Syneos Health Communications Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director, Policy and Access in London
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like Syneos Health Communications.
✨Tap into Professional Associations
Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at Syneos Health Communications.
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When you find roles that excite you, especially at places like Syneos Health Communications, don’t forget to apply through our website. This can sometimes give you an edge by showing the employer you’re savvy and committed to finding the right fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director, Policy and Access in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at Syneos Health Communications.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at Syneos Health Communications.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to Syneos Health Communications. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at Syneos Health Communications. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Syneos Health Communications
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research Syneos Health Communications’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
