Policy and Communication Manager

Job Description

Ready to Shape the Future of Healthcare?

Are you passionate about creating meaningful change for patients and society? This is a unique opportunity to influence healthcare policy at the highest levels and champion patient advocacy in a role that combines strategic vision with real-world impact.

Purpose of the Position

As our HealthCare Policy and Patients Advocacy Manager, you will be a vital link between our company, policymakers, and patient communities. Your mission is to shape a healthcare environment in Slovakia and the EU that embraces innovation, ensuring patients have access to life-changing medicines in areas like Oncology, Vaccines, and Cardiology. You will build trusted partnerships, drive evidence-based policy discussions, and empower patient organizations to create a healthier future for all.

Welcome to Our Team

You'll be joining the Slovak Policy & Communication team—a group known for its collaborative spirit, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to our purpose. We operate on a foundation of trust and transparency, where every voice is valued and open dialogue is the norm. We are a highly motivated, supportive team that believes in working together to achieve extraordinary results, and we are excited to welcome a new member who shares our passion and values.

Main Responsibilities

• Analyze & Strategize: Monitor the Slovak and EU political and healthcare landscape to identify opportunities and risks, providing strategic guidance to leadership.

• Develop Policy Positions: Create evidence-based analyses, position papers, and compelling advocacy messages to support our strategic priorities.

• Build Key Relationships: Develop and nurture trust-based partnerships with national policymakers, regulators, and other key government stakeholders.

• Champion Patient Advocacy: Establish strong, collaborative relationships with patient organizations, supporting their empowerment and driving mutually beneficial initiatives.

• Drive Industry Collaboration: Represent the company within industry associations (e.g., AIFP, AmCham), driving our agenda and building coalitions to advance shared goals.

• Ensure Internal Alignment: Collaborate seamlessly across business units, leadership, and regional teams to ensure a unified and impactful approach.

• Manage Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate a broad network of external partners, including medical societies and KOLs, to foster continuous dialogue on key healthcare issues.

• Protect and Enhance Reputation: Shape our external communication to build a reputation based on expertise and trust, effectively managing any potential risks.

Your Profile

• Policy Expertise: You have a university degree (e.g., public health, law, economics, political science) and at least 3 years of experience in the Slovak healthcare policy environment.

• Deep Understanding: You possess a thorough knowledge of Slovak legislative processes and a strong grasp of how to influence them for positive change.

• Strategic & Analytical Mindset: You excel at analyzing complex information, connecting dots, and translating data into clear, actionable strategies.

• Exceptional Communicator: You build relationships with ease, navigate complex stakeholder dynamics, and can articulate complex topics in a compelling way.

• Collaborative Spirit: You thrive in a cross-functional team environment and are committed to achieving results together.

• Project Management Skills: You are organized, solution-oriented, and capable of managing multiple projects in a dynamic environment.

• Integrity and Trust: You operate with the highest level of integrity, which is essential for handling sensitive and confidential information.

• Language Proficiency: You are fluent in both Slovak and English (written and spoken).

What We Offer

• A competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including 5 weeks of paid holiday.

• The opportunity to make a direct and significant impact on healthcare policy and patient lives.

• A place in a highly motivated, supportive, and purpose-driven team where your contributions are valued.

• Close coaching, mentorship, and clear pathways for your professional development and growth.

• An inclusive, multinational environment where diverse perspectives strengthen our capabilities.

• Enriching networking opportunities across our regional and global organization.

• A promise that your time with us will broaden both your horizon and ours.

Required Skills:

Communication Strategy Development, Communications Writing, Digital Media Strategy, Healthcare Policies, Media Relations, Multichannel Communications, Policy Management, Public Speaking, Strategic Advisory, Strategic Planning

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully 
Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company.  No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails. 

Employee Status:

Regular

Relocation:

VISA Sponsorship:

Travel Requirements:

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Not Applicable

Shift:

Valid Driving License:

Hazardous Material(s):

Job Posting End Date:

06/26/2026

*A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.

Global pharmaceutical company known for oncology, vaccines, and infectious disease treatments. Headquartered in Rahway, NJ.

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