Federal Government Affairs Director

About Astellas 

Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at Astellas.com. 

Are you driven to make a real difference in the lives of patients? 

We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact. 

Purpose:
The Director, Federal Government Affairs, is a valued member of the Government Affairs and Policy team and is responsible for applying internal positions and policies to complex legislative and regulatory matters. The Director represents Astellas in communications and advocacy efforts across a broad array of internal and external stakeholders. This role requires strong leadership and sound judgment to plan and execute projects that advance Astellas’ political engagement strategy, address challenges and opportunities, and enhance patient access to medicines.

Essential Job Responsibilities:

• As part of the Government Affairs and Policy team, develop and lead Astellas’ federal legislative and regulatory strategy across a broad set of priority issues by identifying risks and opportunities and driving aligned engagement in collaboration with internal subject matter experts and leadership.
• Drive cross-functional operational excellence across U.S. Commercial and Global Government Affairs by monitoring and analyzing healthcare legislative and policy developments to inform strategic planning, manage risks, and identify opportunities impacting patient access, sustainability, innovation, and key business functions.
• Provide strategic leadership internally and externally to build and manage coalitions, design and execute advocacy campaigns, and advance legislative and policy objectives across federal agencies, Congress, and key stakeholder communities.
• Manage and cultivate relationships with Members of Congress, their staff, relevant congressional committees, Executive Branch officials, and external stakeholders to advance Astellas’ legislative and policy priorities and patient-first strategy.
• Develop and manage strategies to execute political engagement outreach, including meetings and events.
• Represent Astellas with industry associations and key external stakeholders by managing trade association engagement, board participation, and leadership roles in government affairs working groups and issue-specific coalitions.
• Lead and coordinate external government affairs partners and campaigns to advance legislative, regulatory, and political priorities aligned with Astellas’ U.S. strategic and commercial business objectives.
• Advise internal stakeholders and Astellas business leaders on federal policy trends, risks, and opportunities, and incorporate feedback into government affairs strategies supporting advocacy, materials development, and leadership engagement.

Working Environment:
This role reports to the Lead, Government Affairs & Policy, and works closely with federal and policy colleagues in a highly collaborative, enterprise-wide environment. The position requires a flexible work schedule, including availability during mornings and evenings, as well as occasional weekend events.

At Astellas we recognize the importance of work/life balance, and we are proud to offer a hybrid working solution allowing time to connect with colleagues at the office with the flexibility to also work from home. We believe this will optimize the most productive work environment for all employees to succeed and deliver. Hybrid work from certain locations may be permitted in accordance with Astellas’ Responsible Flexibility Guidelines.

Location(s)

Washington, District of Columbia, United States

Qualifications Required:

• Bachelor’s degree.
• 8–10 years of relevant experience in health policy, legislative affairs, regulatory policy, health care consulting, and/or the pharmaceutical industry.
• Expertise in the political, legislative, and regulatory environment at the federal level.
• Demonstrated ability to strategically manage multiple projects and execute plans with tactical precision.
• Strong knowledge of the biopharmaceutical industry and the key drivers influencing corporate and regulatory policymaking across business functions.
• Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to travel up to 35%.

Preferred:

• Experience in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Advanced or terminal degree in public health, public policy, or a related field.
• Federal government experience in the executive, legislative, or regulatory arena. 

What awaits you at Astellas?

• Global collaboration: Become part of a connected global business of like-minded life science leaders, all dedicated to improving patients' lives worldwide. Real-world patient impact: Contribute to transformative therapies that reach patients around the world, knowing your work makes a difference every day.
• Relentless Innovation: Join a company at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs, where you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of healthcare.
• A Culture of Growth: Chart your own course within a supportive environment that values your contributions, champions your development, and empowers you to pursue your passions.

Our Organizational Values and Behaviors

Values: Innovation, Integrity and Impact sit at the heart of what we do.

Behaviors: We come together as ‘One Astellas’, working with courage and a sense of urgency.  We are outcome focused and consistently take accountability for our personal contribution. 

Salary Range: $161,928-$231,325 (Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to skills, experience, and organizational equity considerations).

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off options, including Vacation and Sick time, plus national holidays including year-end shut down
• 401(k) match and annual company contribution
• Company paid life insurance
• Annual Corporate Bonus and Quarterly Sales Incentive for eligible positions
• Long Term Incentive Plan for eligible positions
• Company-paid fleet vehicle for eligible positions
• Referral bonus program
  

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