Head of External Affairs – South Africa

About the role

Sanofi is seeking a senior leader to head External Affairs in South Africa. The role combines public affairs, corporate communication and B‑B‑E‑E‑E strategy to align the company’s objectives with national health priorities and policy discussions.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement a country‑level External Affairs strategy covering Public Affairs, Communication and B‑B‑E‑E‑E.
• Provide strategic counsel to senior leadership on political, policy and regulatory developments.
• Monitor healthcare policy trends, legislative changes and political developments.
• Lead scenario planning and risk assessment for policy and regulatory changes.
• Build and maintain relationships with key government officials, including the Minister of Health and the Presidency office.
• Coordinate high‑level meetings, briefings and visits with government officials.
• Collaborate with Market Access, Medical Affairs and Commercial teams on product launches and lifecycle management.
• Represent Sanofi in industry associations, multi‑stakeholder platforms and advisory committees.
• Oversee corporate communications strategy and media relations, acting as primary spokesperson.

Required profile

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape health policy in a leading biopharma company.
• Strategic influence across government, industry and internal stakeholders.