π Core Information
πΉ Job Title: Senior Manager, Global Media Relations
πΉ Company: Amgen
πΉ Location: Thousand Oaks, California, United States (Remote OK)
πΉ Job Type: Full-Time
πΉ Category: Corporate Services
πΉ Date Posted: 2025-04-30
πΉ Experience Level: 2-5 years
πΉ Remote Status: Remote OK
π Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Serving as a company spokesperson and media strategist for Amgen's priority products, pipeline, and functions.
- Implementing media relations strategies and outreach for pharmaceutical and/or biotechnology products.
- Proactively uncovering interesting stories and news angles to enhance Amgen's reputation in news media.
- Collaborating with various functions within the organization and working with external PR agencies.
- Supporting the team on issues/crisis communications, as needed.
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of the biotechnology industry and communications environment, with a focus on the U.S. and additional major markets.
π Key Responsibilities
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Independently implement media relations strategies and outreach for pharmaceutical and/or biotechnology products.
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Possess strong existing reporter relationships and a demonstrated track record of working with news media on various topics.
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Proactively uncover interesting stories and news angles to further Amgen's story and enhance corporate reputation in news media.
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Be highly organized and a disciplined self-starter who can prioritize multiple tasks and deliver to deadlines, always leading with a proactive news mindset.
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Lead media material development for interviews, trainings, prep sessions, and confidently represent a media relations perspective while working collaboratively with other functions and colleagues at various levels.
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Support the team on issues/crisis communications, as needed, and liaison with external PR agencies and serve as company spokesperson, when appropriate.
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Be prepared to travel to major conferences and events, occasional deskside briefings, as well as to Amgen sites in the U.S. or globally.
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a proactive approach to news and a strong ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
π― Required Qualifications
Education: Doctorate degree
Experience: 2 years of corporate communications or public relations experience
Required Skills:
- Strong writing skills and experience speaking with media on a variety of subjects.
- Experience writing pitches, comfortable interfacing with reporters, working against tight deadlines.
- Deep understanding of the biotechnology industry and communications environment (US required, plus additional major markets a plus).
- Experience navigating drug approvals, data milestones, and regulatory decisions.
- Attention to detail, ability to craft messages and develop presentations.
Preferred Skills:
- Proactive thinking and problem-solving skills; self-starter.
- Collaboratively work with a diverse group of people and backgrounds.
- Appreciation of nuanced, regulated, and confidential information.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with a master's degree and 4 years of experience, a bachelor's degree and 6 years of experience, an associate's degree and 10 years of experience, or a high school diploma and 12 years of experience may also be considered.
π° Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: 146,222.00 USD - 174,539.00 USD (Annually)
Benefits:
- Comprehensive Employee Benefits Package
- Retirement and Savings Plan
- Group Medical Coverage
- Dental Coverage
- Vision Coverage
- Life Insurance
- Disability Insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Discretionary Annual Bonus Program
- Stock-Based Long-Term Incentives
- Award-Winning Time-Off Plans
- Flexible Work Models
Working Hours: Full-time, with flexible work arrangements available
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles in the biotechnology industry. Actual salary may vary based on relevant skills, experience, and qualifications.
π Applicant Insights
π Company Context
Industry: Biotechnology Research
Company Size: 10,001+ employees
Founded: 1980
Company Description:
- Amgen is a global biotechnology company that focuses on serving patients with serious illnesses.
- The company has a robust pipeline and a portfolio of medicines to treat cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, inflammatory diseases, and rare diseases.
- Amgen is committed to investing in research and development to push beyond what's known today.
Company Specialties:
- Biologics
- Human therapeutics
- Development of novel products
Company Website: http://www.amgen.com
ASSUMPTION: Amgen is a well-established company in the biotechnology industry, with a strong focus on innovation and patient care.
π Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-level management
Reporting Structure: This role reports to the Enterprise Media Relations Executive Director, Corporate Affairs, and operates as a self-starter while working on a collaborative and high-performing 6-member team.
Work Arrangement: This position can sit remotely in the U.S. and does not need to be based in Thousand Oaks, CA.
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential career growth within the Corporate Affairs department or other functions within Amgen.
- Opportunities to work on high-profile projects and gain experience in global media relations.
ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for professional growth and development within a large, established organization.
π Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Hybrid (remote and on-site)
Office Location(s): Thousand Oaks, California, United States (with remote work options)
Geographic Context:
- Thousand Oaks is located in Ventura County, California, approximately 40 miles west of Los Angeles.
- The area offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with access to beaches, mountains, and cultural attractions.
- Amgen's headquarters is located in Thousand Oaks, with additional offices in the U.S. and globally.
Work Schedule: Full-time, with flexible work arrangements available
ASSUMPTION: The remote work option allows for flexibility and a better work-life balance, while the on-site option provides opportunities for in-person collaboration and networking.
πΌ Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screen with the hiring manager
- On-site or virtual interview with the hiring team
- Final interview with the Enterprise Media Relations Executive Director, Corporate Affairs
Key Assessment Areas:
- Writing and communication skills
- Media relations experience and strategic thinking
- Industry knowledge and understanding of Amgen's products and pipeline
- Problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role.
- Demonstrate your understanding of the biotechnology industry and Amgen's products and pipeline in your application materials.
- Prepare examples of your media relations work and be ready to discuss your approach to media strategy and outreach.
ATS Keywords: Media Relations, Public Relations, Corporate Communications, Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals, Media Strategy, Media Outreach, News Media, Reporters, Storytelling, Crisis Communications
ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role may take several weeks, and communication from Amgen's recruitment team may be limited due to the high volume of applicants.
π οΈ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Media databases (e.g., Muck Rack, Agility PR Solutions)
- Social media platforms (e.g., Twitter, LinkedIn)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
ASSUMPTION: The tools and technologies required for this role may vary depending on the specific needs of the team and the organization.
π Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Patients First
- Quality
- Innovation
- Trust
- Collaboration
- Diversity
- Inclusion
Work Style:
- Collaborative and team-oriented
- Results-driven and proactive
- Adaptable and responsive to change
- Committed to continuous learning and improvement
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you share Amgen's commitment to putting patients first in all that you do?
- Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapting to change?
- Do you thrive in a collaborative work environment and enjoy working with diverse teams?
ASSUMPTION: Amgen values a diverse and inclusive work environment, and candidates who can demonstrate their fit with the company's values and work style will be most successful in this role.
β οΈ Potential Challenges
- Working with a diverse and global team, requiring strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Managing multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Navigating a matrixed organization and building relationships with various functions within the company.
- Adapting to changes in the media landscape and staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.
ASSUMPTION: These challenges can be overcome with strong communication skills, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
π Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is unique in its focus on global media relations for a large biotechnology company.
- Similar roles may include Senior Manager, Media Relations or Director, Corporate Communications, but may not have the same global scope or focus on the biotechnology industry.
- Career paths for this role may include progression to a Director or Vice President role within Corporate Affairs or other functions within Amgen.
ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity to gain experience in global media relations for a large biotechnology company and provides opportunities for career growth and development.
π Sample Projects
- Developing and executing a media strategy for a major product launch or data milestone.
- Managing a crisis communications situation and coordinating with internal and external stakeholders.
- Creating and distributing media materials, such as press releases, media alerts, and Q&As, for various products and pipeline updates.
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects demonstrate the range of responsibilities and the level of strategic thinking required for this role.
β Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the most pressing media relations challenges facing Amgen in the near future?
- How does this role collaborate with other functions within the organization, such as Product, Medical Affairs, and Legal?
- What opportunities are there for professional growth and development within this role and within Amgen?
- How does Amgen support work-life balance for its employees?
- What is the company's approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how is this reflected in the work environment?
ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful and insightful questions demonstrates your interest in the role and your understanding of the organization's priorities and culture.
π Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role.
- Prepare examples of your media relations work and be ready to discuss your approach to media strategy and outreach.
- Follow up with the Amgen recruitment team one week after submitting your application to confirm receipt and inquire about next steps.
β οΈ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.