Public Affairs Manager

ALK-Abelló A/S; Reading; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in allergy solutions is seeking an experienced Public Affairs Manager to develop and deliver policy agenda and advocacy strategy across the UK and Ireland. The ideal candidate will manage relationships with key stakeholders and ensure compliance with industry standards. Strong expertise in public affairs and the healthcare sector is required for this impactful role.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years in public affairs within the life sciences sector.
• Strong understanding of the UK and Ireland healthcare policy landscape.
• Proven relationship-building and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of ALK’s policy agenda and advocacy strategy for the UK and Ireland.
• Draft and coordinate policy positions and responses to consultations.
• Build and maintain a strong network of external stakeholders.

Skills

Public affairs experience

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Job description

ALK is a global leader in allergy solutions, dedicated to improving the lives of people living with allergies through prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. With a strong international presence, ALK combines scientific innovation with a patient-first mindset.

Public Affairs play a key role in bringing this vision to life — by engaging with policymakers, healthcare leaders, and advocacy organisations to ensure patients have access to world‑class allergy management and care pathways.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Public Affairs Manager to help shape and deliver ALK’s policy agenda and advocacy strategy across the UK and Ireland.

In this role, you will work with a wide range of stakeholders — including government bodies, policymakers, politicians, and advocacy groups — to influence healthcare policy and drive recognition of allergy as a public health priority. You will bring a deep understanding of the UK and Irish policy environments, strong communication skills, and the ability to build and maintain impactful relationships with key decision‑makers.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the development of ALK’s policy agenda and advocacy strategy for the UK and Ireland.

Draft and coordinate policy positions and responses to consultations relevant to ALK’s mission.

Build and maintain a strong network of external stakeholders, including policymakers, advocacy organisations, and healthcare partners.

Support engagement and collaboration with patient groups and relevant associations.

Manage the creation, approval, and alignment of advocacy materials and communications.

Represent ALK at national and international meetings, conferences, and stakeholder events.

Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of the policy and regulatory environment across the UK and Ireland.

Ensure all activities comply with industry codes of practice and ALK’s internal standards.

Your Qualifications

Experience: Minimum 2–3 years in public affairs within the life sciences sector.

Strong understanding of the UK and Ireland healthcare policy landscape.

Proven relationship‑building and stakeholder management skills.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively across diverse audiences.

Experience in the creation and approval of advocacy materials (preferred).

Experience managing external vendors or consultancies (preferred).

Why Join ALK?

At ALK, we are united by a shared purpose — to improve the lives of people with allergies through science, innovation, and collaboration. You will join a company with more than 100 years of history and a strong global presence, where your work directly contributes to better healthcare access and outcomes.

As part of a growing Market Access team, you will have the opportunity to shape ALK’s Public Affairs strategy from the ground up, drive meaningful change in allergy awareness, and build partnerships that make a real difference for patients.

Together, we make allergy management simpler, more effective, and more accessible — for everyone.