Senior Manager, RDU IT Communications and Change Management

Introduction to role

As a Senior Manager for IT Communications and Change Management, you will play a pivotal role in crafting and delivering strategic communications that support the RDU IT organization’s goals, change initiatives, and transformation programs. A proactive self-starter, you thrive in fast-paced environments, creating innovative and impactful communication strategies that align with organizational priorities, engage stakeholders, and deliver measurable results. You will collaborate across IT and the broader organization to develop compelling narratives, drive employee engagement, and ensure alignment with corporate branding and messaging standards. Your expertise in developing clear, concise, and targeted communications will enable you to connect with diverse audiences at all levels of the organization and effectively lead multiple priorities with agility and precision. Your role will also incorporate key change management principles, including stakeholder analysis, crafting tailored communication plans, fostering engagement through effective messaging, and reinforcing behavior change to drive sustained adoption of transformation initiatives. You will align communication strategies with change management frameworks to effectively address resistance, build awareness, and ensure a smooth transition for impacted teams. This role will collaborate closely with the Associate Director, RDU IT Communications and Change Management Lead to ensure alignment, effective execution of strategies, and consistent messaging across the RDU IT function.

Accountabilities

• Crafting impactful digital content and internal communication materials with compelling narratives to support RDU IT strategy, transformation initiatives, change management, and employee engagement, showcasing the organization’s role in driving business outcomes.
• Partnering with Associate Director, RDU IT Communications and Change Management Lead in developing and implementing RDU IT strategic communication plan, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities.
• Planning, developing, and delivering flagship RDU IT events, including townhalls logistics, virtual and in-person leader meetings, leading playbooks, postcard campaigns and submissions, organizational announcements, and awards submissions.
• Identifying and addressing opportunities to enhance communication channels, including intranet, newsletters, and digital platforms.
• Leading the development and governance of internal communication platforms, including internal websites (e.g., SharePoint) and collaboration tools, to ensure consistent messaging and high-quality content.
• Establishing a governance model for content curation, ensuring consistency, quality, and alignment with corporate branding and communication practices.
• Handling editorial and engagement strategies for RDU IT communication channels, such as Workplace groups, to attract users and enhance their value as key hubs for information sharing and collaboration.
• Supervising and gathering employee feedback through formal and informal channels to measure the effectiveness of communication efforts and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Ensuring all communications reflect the cultural diversity and sensitivity of a global organization.
• Participating in cross-functional collaboration efforts and representing the RDU IT communications function in broader organizational initiatives.

Essential Skills/Experience

• A minimum of 5–8 years of experience in communications and enterprise-level change management initiatives, with at least three years in a leadership role responsible for communication planning and execution.
• A bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, journalism, or a related field, or equivalent experience in a related role.
• Sophisticated proficiency in creating compelling PowerPoint presentations with attention to detail, design aesthetics, storytelling, and brand alignment.  
• Certifications in change management methodologies (Prosci Change Management Certification, Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP), Agile Change Management Certification, for example) 
• Exceptional writing and editing skills, with the ability to adapt to different styles and tailor messaging for diverse media, channels, and audiences.
• Proven expertise in translating complex technical and strategic information into clear, compelling stories and messaging.
• Proven track record of collaborating effectively with senior leaders, providing communication support and strategic counsel as needed.
• Basic knowledge of Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, and Microsoft Copilot
• Experience with Workplace, Workvivo (or similar platforms) 
• 2-3 years of event management and coordination.
• A demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meeting deadlines in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Accountability for quality control, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and adherence to corporate standards in all communications.

Desirable Skills/Experience

• A master’s degree in a related field.
• Knowledge of Agile principles and experience communicating in an Agile environment.
• Experience in digital and data transformation initiatives and their associated communication requirements.
• Proficiency in design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) for developing visually compelling content.
• Website design and online content management experience with a focus on user engagement and functionality.
• Basic video production skills preferred but not required.

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

Joining Alexion means embracing an opportunity where work isn’t ordinary. We are a beacon in the global Biopharmaceutical landscape. Our closeness to patients brings us closer to our work and closer to each other. Combined with our brave pioneering spirit – we are truly unique in R&D and healthcare. At Alexion, grow and innovate in a business with a rapidly expanding portfolio. Enjoy the vibe, entrepreneurial spirit, and autonomy of a leading biotech. You’ll join an energizing culture where people build connections to explore new ideas. As an important member of our team, you'll be meeting the needs of some of the most under-served patients in the world. You will be empowered with tailored development programs designed not just for skill enhancement but for fostering a deep understanding of our patient's journeys. You’re supported by exceptional leaders ready to lift you in marketing, compliance, and beyond. Make an impact by driving change with integrity supported by a culture that celebrates diversity.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now!

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.