The Director of Discovery Communications is a pivotal leader responsible for architecting and executing strategic communication plans to support AbbVie’s SVP and Global Head of Discovery Research. As the lead communications counselor for the Discovery organization, this director orchestrates both internal and external communications initiatives to promote early science innovations and new areas of investment, in collaboration with pipeline and external innovation communications colleagues. This role also provides strategic oversight for R&D site communications, ensuring it reaches and impacts AbbVie’s worldwide R&D network. The Director reports to the Head of Pipeline & External Innovation Communications.

Core Competencies:

• Scientific Expertise: Translate scientific insights into engaging and compelling narratives for diverse audiences and channels.
• Strategic Business Insight: Provide strategic framing and context, shaping communication priorities to align seamlessly with overarching business imperatives.
• Executive Consultation: Deliver strategic advice on communication approaches and engagement strategies to senior executives.
• Content Strategy Mastery: Demonstrate expertise in communication dynamics, fostering both employee engagement and media relationships.
• Enterprise Perspective: Maintain a comprehensive understanding of organizational impact and foster a holistic, enterprise-wide mindset.
• Cross-functional Leadership: Champion collaboration by dismantling silos and nurturing partnerships across functional boundaries.
• Inspirational Leadership: Cultivate accountability and excellence within the team, inspiring both direct and indirect members.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Collaborate closely with the SVP and Global Head of Discovery Research and the Chief of Staff to design and implement communication strategies for the Discovery organization.
• Serve as a strategic communications advisor on the Discovery leadership team, guiding senior leaders.
• Lead content development and executive communication initiatives, establishing AbbVie’s thought leadership in discovery research, aligned with the R&D strategy and identity.
• Identify and develop compelling stories to captivate employees and external stakeholders, including media, in partnership with R&D Communications colleagues.
• Prepare Discovery leaders for effective message delivery, media engagements, and external speaking opportunities.
• Coordinate strategic support for local communication initiatives with R&D site communicators and HR collaborators.
• Partner with the Discovery Research culture lead to ensure integration of cultural initiatives as part of communications plans.
• Provide strategic support for AbbVie Ventures to enhance the company’s approach to external innovation.
• Contribute to the R&D communications team by participating in annual planning, budget management, and the development of initiatives supporting R&D and enterprise goals.
• Represent the corporate affairs function on the Executive Animal Committee and lead issues management for discovery research.
• Collaborate with divisions such as government affairs, investor relations, legal, and regulatory teams to align communication efforts.
• Develop and implement metric frameworks to assess the effectiveness of communications, enabling continuous improvement and data-driven strategies.
• Strong leader for associate director/ manager, providing development and coaching to grow pipeline of talent.