Director, AI Communications Strategy

Job DescriptionOverviewAt our Company, we use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world – that is our purpose. The Director, AI Communications Strategy, will be responsible for the strategic direction of AI communications, shaping how our Company's AI, GenAI and agentic initiatives across research, commercial, manufacturing, talent and more are communicated to internal and external audiences.The ideal candidate is a strategic communications leader who can translate complex AI initiatives into clear, credible, human-centered stories that resonate with employees, leaders, external audiences and key stakeholders—and help drive adoption and cultural change internally.Responsibilities will include defining and operationalizing the overarching communication strategy and narrative; leading internal and external storytelling, including executive communications and thought leadership; and ensuring consistent, high-performing communications on all channels. This role will help strengthen our company’s reputation in and build enterprise-wide understanding of—and engagement with—AI.This candidate will work collaboratively with peers in Global Communications, and in strong partnership with cross-functional teams including but not limited to Strategy, IT, Change Management, Talent, as well as Learning and Development, to align priorities and ensure cohesive communications planning and execution.This individual will report to the Executive Director, IT Strategic Communications, and will be part of the Global Employee and Executive Communications team.Scope of work and core responsibilitiesStrategy and narrative leadershipDefine and lead the overarching AI communications strategy and narrative for internal and external audiences, aligned with our company’s strategic prioritiesEnsure consistent, high-impact messaging frameworks of AI initiatives—adaptable and fit for purpose for multiple channels and stakeholdersServe as a trusted partner with strong ways of working to leaders and enterprise communications partners on AI communications, messaging and engagement opportunitiesSet measurable and achievable goals for execution of internal, external and executive communication strategies and ensure progress is tracked, reported and value is evidencedLeverage internal and external insights to inform overall AI communication strategyProvide crisis and issues management support as neededManage budget, resources and agency partners as applicable External storytelling and reputation buildingOversee development and execution of external engagement plans, including media interviews, speaking opportunities and industry positioningPrepare leaders for opportunities, including development of briefing materials and messaging, media training, on-site support, etc. Internal engagement and change leadershipSet direction for and implement internal storytelling strategy and priorities that motivate and inspire colleagues to drive awareness, understanding and adoption of AI, as well as feel pride in our company’s AI journeyDevelop and maintain communications templates, toolkits and GenAI and agentic enablement resources for communicators and leadersSupport the implementation of change communications, as neededPartner with Talent and AI learning teams to promote people development and upskilling—spotlighting learning pathways, key resources and communities of practice Channel, content and performance managementOversee content strategy, including editorial direction, content calendar and multi-channel distribution in partnership with content and digital teams to ensure timely, coordinated publishingCreate clear and inspirational content related to key engagement initiatives; may include but not limited to written, video, digital and visual assets Required minimum qualificationsBachelor's degree in a related field is requiredMinimum 8-10 years of communication experience in external, corporate, executive and change communications, as well as employee engagementMinimum 3-5 years of supervisory experience and/or successfully leading complex, matrixed teamsCreative and bold (yet balanced) thinker; not afraid to think outside the box and has demonstrated ability to execute and bring big ideas to lifeStrong fluency and use of GenAI in their day-to-day work, including reimagining communications activities and/or processes leveraging AI and agentsProven experience confidently interacting with and counseling corporate executives and key internal partners with best in-class communication practices, ensuring messaging is consistent across the organizationProven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, including success managing major projects and enterprise-wide initiativesStrong storytelling skills, with the ability to translate complex topics (e.g., AI, digital, data) into clear, engaging content for a range of audiences and channels (e.g., media, .com, social, intranet)Strong writing, editing and communications skills in multiple media, including speeches, email, video scripts, editorial and social contentStrong interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively across teamsOrganized with high attention to detailExceptional business acumen with agility in a fast-paced environmentProactive with ability to “see” around corners and anticipate needs of our executivesAbility to bring outside-in thinking and share best practices with the teamProficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software Preferred qualificationsExperience in employee and internal communications, change communications, public relations, external engagement and corporate reputationExperience in healthcare industry, including large Fortune 500 companiesExperience in AI communications strategy and engagementExperience at a PR agency or equivalent welcomeLocation/CommuteThis role is based at our Headquarters site in Rahway (NJ, USA)We offer a Hybrid setup {combination of an in-office (3 days) & remote/offsite (2 da