Government Affairs and Policy Manager

GlaxoSmithKline; Riyadh, Jeddah; On-site; SAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A global biopharma company is seeking a Government Affairs and Policy Manager in Riyadh. The role involves developing government relations strategies, advocating for healthcare policies, and engaging with key stakeholders. Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience in government affairs, strong communication skills, and a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Fluency in English is required, and knowledge of the Saudi regulatory environment is essential. This is an on-site position that supports GSK's commitment to national objectives.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in government affairs or public policy.
• In-depth understanding of the political landscape in Saudi Arabia.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement government relations strategies.
• Advocate for GSK's positions on healthcare and public policy.
• Build relationships with key government stakeholders.

Skills

Government relations

Public policy advocacy

Strategic thinking

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in political science or related field

Advanced degree (MBA, MSc, PhD)

Job description

Site Name: Saudi Arabia - Riyadh

Posted Date: Dec 31 2025

GSK Saudi Arabia is committed to supporting Vision 2030 and the Saudi Arabian National Agenda including Saudization in line with the hiring and the training and development of Saudi National capability.

Job Purpose

The Government Affairs and Policy Manager will be responsible for developing and executing GSK's government relations and public policy strategies in Saudi Arabia. This role will focus on building and maintaining strong relationships with key government stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and industry associations to advance GSK's business objectives and ensure a favorable policy environment.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Government Relations

• Develop and implement comprehensive government relations strategies to support GSK's business goals in Saudi Arabia.
• Identify and engage with key government stakeholders, including ministries, regulatory authorities, and other relevant public sector entities.
• Monitor and analyze political, legislative, and regulatory developments that could impact GSK's operations.

Policy Advocacy

• Advocate for GSK's positions on key policy issues, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and public tenders.
• Prepare policy briefs, position papers, and other advocacy materials to influence policy decisions.
• Represent GSK in industry associations, working groups, and coalitions to shape policy discussions.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with government officials, policymakers, and influencers.
• Organize and participate in meetings, conferences, and events to promote GSK's interests and enhance the company's visibility.
• Facilitate communication between GSK and government stakeholders to address regulatory and policy issues.

Regulatory Affairs

• Collaborate with GSK's regulatory affairs team to ensure compliance with local regulations and facilitate product approvals.
• Provide insights and guidance on regulatory changes and their potential impact on GSK's business.
• Support the development and submission of regulatory documents and applications.

Healthcare Transformation Insight

• Understand the healthcare transformation in Saudi Arabia and its implications on GSK's business.
• Stay up to date with regard to policies and reforms in Saudi Arabia's healthcare sector.
• Provide strategic advice on how to navigate and leverage these changes to benefit GSK.

Stakeholder Mapping and Engagement

• Create a comprehensive stakeholder map considering GSK's business interests.
• Develop and execute an engagement plan with key stakeholders to advance GSK's objectives.
• Identify opportunities for partnerships and collaborations with the government and other key players.

Partnership Development

• Develop and execute partnership ideas with government entities to support GSK's strategic goals.
• Foster collaborations that enhance GSK's presence and impact in the healthcare sector.

External Representation

• Act as the focal point for GSK with US chambers and other organizations to serve GSK's objectives.
• Represent GSK in external forums, ensuring alignment with the company's strategic priorities.

Tender Business Sustainability

• Sustain GSK's tender business by ensuring compliance with license to operate government mandates.
• Work closely with relevant internal teams to ensure all tender requirements are met and maintained.

Internal Collaboration

• Work closely with GSK's local and regional teams, including commercial, legal, and government affairs, to align government affairs and policy initiatives with business objectives.
• Provide strategic advice and updates to senior management on government relations and policy matters.
• Coordinate with Emerging markets government affairs and policy teams to ensure consistency and alignment.

Why You?

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in political science, public policy, law, business administration, or a related field
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in government affairs, public policy, or a related role
• In depth understanding of the political and regulatory landscape in Saudi Arabia
• Proven track record of successful government relations and policy advocacy
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MBA, MSc, PhD)
• Experience in similar roles in the healthcare or pharmaceutical industry
• Knowledge of public policy and regulatory processes
• Understanding of healthcare and pharmaceutical industry regulations
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders and policymakers
• Fluency in Arabic both written and spoken
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities
• Strategic thinking
• Negotiation and lobbying skills
• Analytical and research capabilities
• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• Project management and organizational skills
• Adaptability

Work Environment
This is an on-site role based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Travel across the assigned territory may be required.

How to Apply
If you’re ready to join us in this impactful role, apply today! Together, we’ll get ahead of disease and shape the future of healthcare.

Closing Date: 23 October 2025

Why GSK?
Uniting science, technology and talent to get ahead of disease together.

GSK is a global biopharma company with a purpose to unite science, technology and talent to get ahead of disease together. We aim to positively impact the health of 2.5 billion people by the end of the decade, as a successful, growing company where people can thrive. We get ahead of disease by preventing and treating it with innovation in specialty medicines and vaccines. We focus on four therapeutic areas: respiratory, immunology and inflammation; oncology; HIV; and infectious diseases – to impact health at scale.

People and patients around the world count on the medicines and vaccines we make, so we’re committed to creating an environment where our people can thrive and focus on what matters most. Our culture of being ambitious for patients, accountable for impact and doing the right thing is the foundation for how, together, we deliver for patients, shareholders and our people.

Contact information:
You may apply for this position online by selecting the Apply now button.

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