Global head of external communications, leading global pharmaceutical company, milan

Shape the Global Reputation of a Leading Healthcare Organisation A prominent, innovation-led pharmaceutical group with a growing international presence is seeking an experienced and strategic Global Head of External Communications to lead its global reputation and stakeholder engagement efforts. Based at the company's global headquarters in Milan, this is a high-impact in-house leadership role, ideal for a communications expert with a strong command of global media, proven reputation management expertise, and the ability to advise at the most senior levels. The successful candidate will drive all aspects of external communications, supporting the business through corporate transformation, innovation, and growth across key global markets. What You'll Be DoingDesign and lead the global external communications strategy across Europe, North America, and AsiaAct as senior advisor to the C-suite on media relations, reputation strategy, and high-stakes stakeholder communicationsLead communications planning for major corporate milestones including M&A, scientific developments, regulatory updates, ESG announcements, and crisis eventsBuild strong relationships with international and sector-specific media, acting as a credible and well-informed company spokespersonEnsure alignment of messaging and tone across global markets and all external-facing content and channelsOversee global agencies and internal teams, managing budgets and ensuring high-quality output across workstreamsDevelop thought leadership platforms for senior executives, supporting reputation positioning in key global forumsCollaborate cross-functionally with colleagues in Investor Relations, ESG, Scientific Affairs, HR, and LegalIdentify reputational risks early and implement mitigation strategies with confidence and clarityWhat They're Looking ForExtensive experience in external communications within a global organisation, ideally in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, or other regulated industriesDemonstrated success in leading strategic, global communications programmes at executive levelDeep understanding of international media and reputational dynamics across marketsNative-level English is essential; fluency in Italian is also required – additional languages a plusExcellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling corporate narratives across audiencesConfident, agile leader with experience in issues and crisis communications at a global scaleCollaborative and culturally astute, with the ability to lead teams and influence stakeholders across geographiesCommercially minded, strategic, and proactive in driving forward corporate messagingBenefitsCompetitive executive salary and annual bonusLong-term incentive / equity participation planComprehensive private health and wellness benefitsFlexible hybrid working model from Milan HQ30 days' annual leave + public holidaysExecutive coaching and tailored leadership developmentGlobal travel and visibility at the highest levels of the businessA meaningful opportunity to shape the external voice of a company making a real impact on global healthIf you are a globally minded communications leader with native-level English and a passion for strategic reputation building, we would love to hear from you. Please apply with your CV or contactour teamfor a confidential conversation. Hanson Search is a leading talent advisory and executive search consultancy with consultants based across the UAE, UK, USA, and Europe. We specialise in business-critical roles that drive revenue, reputation, and risk, with dedicated teams in Communication s, Government Relations, Public Affairs, Marketing, Digital Marketing, Sustainability, Investor Relations and C-Suiterecruitment. Please click here to find out about more about Hanson Search.