Senior Associate Director, Public Policy and Communications

We have an immediate opportunity for a Senior Associate Director specializing in Public Policy and Communications, with proven experience in the healthcare and life sciences sector. Based in Singapore, you will play a leadership role in shaping integrated policy and communications strategies for top-tier healthcare clients navigating Southeast Asia’s complex regulatory and political environment. This role combines policy acumen, strategic communications expertise, and deep healthcare sector knowledge. You will lead multi-market advocacy efforts, advise senior decision-makers on public affairs strategy, and shape the narratives that influence change across the region.

What We’re Looking For

You are a dynamic public affairs leader with an exceptional track record in healthcare policy and communications. You understand how to influence the environment around your clients through high-impact advocacy, narrative development, and stakeholder engagement.

Bring deep, hands-on experience in healthcare public policy and external engagement. Have successfully led integrated campaigns involving both public policy and communications strategy. Are a natural advisor to C-suite executives, with strong business and regulatory insight. Thrive in fast-paced environments and excel at leading diverse teams and complex projects. Have strong relationships—or know how to build them—with government, regulators, and opinion leaders across Southeast Asia.

What We Offer

A leading role in shaping policy and positioning for healthcare clients across Southeast Asia. A high-impact opportunity within APCO’s global healthcare and public affairs network. Access to world-class talent, data, and tools across markets and disciplines. Opportunities to work on critical public health, access, innovation, and sustainability issues. A culture that rewards entrepreneurial spirit, collaboration, and real-world results.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop strategies to engage policymakers, regulators, industry bodies, and public stakeholders across Southeast Asia.
• Lead integrated public policy and communications campaigns for clients in the healthcare and life sciences sectors.
• Lead proposal development and business development for the healthcare practice.
• Provide senior-level counsel to clients on healthcare regulations, policy trends, and reputational issues.
• Translate complex health policy and scientific content into compelling advocacy messages.
• Manage and grow long-term client relationships, overseeing teams and ensuring high-quality execution.
• Identify emerging policy risks and opportunities and guide proactive client responses.
• Collaborate with internal and external experts to shape campaigns that align with client business objectives.
• Mentor junior colleagues and contribute to the strategic growth of APCO’s public affairs and healthcare capabilities in the region.

Qualifications and Experience

• 10+ years of experience in public policy, government relations, strategic communications, or public affairs—with a required focus on healthcare or life sciences.
• Proven success managing public affairs initiatives in healthcare (e.g. pharmaceuticals, medical devices, health systems, digital health).
• Strong understanding of Southeast Asia’s healthcare policy and regulatory environment.
• Exceptional writing and messaging skills, with the ability to simplify complex regulatory and technical content.
• Experience advising senior leadership during high-stakes public policy or reputational issues.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage large-scale projects, and build trusted client relationships.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Public Health, Communications, or related fields. Proficiency in English; additional Southeast Asian languages are an asset.