Director, Internal Communications
At AstraZeneca, we pride ourselves in nurturing a collaborative culture that champions knowledge-sharing, daring thinking, and innovation –providing employees with the opportunity to work across teams, functions and even the globe.
Recognizing the importance of individualized flexibility, our ways of working allow employees to balance personal and work commitments while ensuring we continue to build a strong culture of collaboration and partnership by engaging face-to-face in our offices 3 days a week. Our head office and BlueSky Hub in downtown Toronto are purposely crafted with collaboration in mind, providing space where teams can come together to strategize, brainstorm, and connect on key projects.
Our dedication to sustainability is also central to our culture and part of what makes AstraZeneca is an excellent place to work. We know the health of people, the planet and our business are interconnected which is why we’re taking bold actions to address key external challenges including climate change, health equity and health system resilience.
Make a meaningful impact as a senior leader in shaping AstraZeneca’s culture and internal engagement.
AstraZeneca Canada is seeking an experienced and strategic Director, Internal Communications to join our Corporate Affairs & Communications team. As a trusted advisor and partner to our executive leadership, you will play a pivotal role in advancing our business objectives through engaging, insightful, and impactful communication strategies.
About the Role:
In this highly influential position, you will develop and drive the internal communications strategy for AstraZeneca in Canada, ensuring messages resonate across AstraZeneca, Alexion, and our Mississauga R&D hubs. You will guide how we inform, engage, and inspire our diverse and talented teams—fostering pride, alignment, and a shared sense of purpose as we shape the future of healthcare.
Key Responsibilities:
·Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute a comprehensive internal communications plan aligned with AstraZeneca’s goals and values, advancing a clear and engaging corporate narrative.
·Executive Counsel: Advise and collaborate closely with the Canadian President, Leadership Team, and key functional leaders to ensure effective communication of priorities and initiatives.
·Employee Engagement: Lead high-profile events—including town halls and Quarterly Performance Updates—to connect, inform, and motivate employees.
·Change Communications: Spearhead communications plans around transformation and structural changes, supporting a culture of adaptability, inclusivity, and engagement.
·Functional Partnership: Work cross-functionally (notably with HR) to deliver initiatives in diversity & inclusion, employee development, and external employer branding.
·Leadership Enablement: Equip managers and leaders with tools and strategies to effectively communicate and embed key messages across the organization.
·Collaboration: Engage as a key member of the Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Leadership Team and collaborate globally to ensure consistent messaging and leverage best practices.
·Measurement & Improvement: Track the effectiveness of communication campaigns, gather feedback, and continuously enhance strategy.
·Budget & Agency Management: Oversee budgets for communications and events, partnering with external agencies for effective program delivery.
What We’re Looking For:
·12+ years of experience in corporate or consulting communications, with a proven track record leading internal, change, and executive communications, preferably in the biopharmaceutical or healthcare sector.
·Strong strategic, planning, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage complex communication challenges.
·Demonstrated expertise advising and working with senior executives in large, global organizations.
·Superior written, spoken, and interpersonal communication skills, with attention to detail and the ability to inspire diverse audiences.
·Experience driving engagement and culture through innovative communication approaches.
·Collaborative team player with a self-starter mindset and entrepreneurial spirit.
·Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, delivering results with urgency and excellence.
Experience in policy, government affairs, and partner management is a strong asset.
Great People want to Work with us! Find out why:
- GTAA Top Employer Award for 10 years
- Top 100 Employers Award
- Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Culture
- Learn more about working with us in Canada
- View our YouTube channel
This is the place to make a meaningful impact – on patients’ lives and your personal growth. It’s both exciting and inspiring, and it’s what keeps us motivated every day.
Ready to make a difference? Apply now!
AstraZeneca is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion and providing a workplace that is free from discrimination. AstraZeneca is committed to accommodating persons with disabilities. Such accommodation is available on request in respect of all aspects of the recruitment, assessment and selection process and may be requested by emailing AZCHumanResources@astrazeneca.com (mailto: sources@astrazeneca.com).
AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.