Associate Director Government Affairs

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity?

At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.

Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.

In close collaboration with the Senior Director and Head of Government Affairs Emerging Markets, the Associate Director, Government Affairs Middle East, with focus on Saudi Arabia will drive the development and implementation of corporate policy through strategic partnerships with government and industry groups aligning with business objectives to advance Illumina’s mission in the region. Will serve as the organization's contact for legislative and public policy matters. Will serve as the organization’s liaison to foster relationships with key members of government and industry groups to promote company interests. Prepares policy briefings and provides thought leadership and recommendations. Ensures appropriate company participation in government forums and industry group meetings. Works with policymakers, leaders of government and industry councils to influence public policy, monitor government initiatives and advocate for specific plans to advance the company’s objectives.

The successful candidate will develop and implement successful government affairs strategies, establish key partnerships, and influence public policy to support Illumina’s growth and innovation in genomics.

Changes to individual responsibilities may occur due to business needs and other related duties may be assigned.

 

Scope of Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute government affairs strategies to support Illumina’s business objectives in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.  
• Build and maintain strong relationships with government ministries, regulators such as Ministry of Health, MISA, Saudi Food & Drug Authority (SFDA), and other relevant stakeholders in Saudi Arabia and the region.
• Monitor and analyze regulatory and policy developments impacting genomics, precision medicine, and the healthcare ecosystem in Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East region.  
• Advocate for policies that foster innovation, market access, and investment in the genomics and life sciences sector.  
• Represent Illumina in key government and industry forums, public policy discussions, and working groups.  
• Collaborate with internal teams, including commercial, market access, legal, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) functions, to align government engagement efforts with business priorities.  
• Frequently interacts with senior management and/or executives on matters concerning several functional areas, divisions,and/or customers
•  Applies advanced knowledge to convince stakeholders of desired departmental outcomes.
• Interactions require the ability to negotiate and persuade others in sensitive and complex situations while preserving relationships.
• Erroneous decisions may cause critical delay in accomplishing annual goals and directly impact the overall success of a function or multiple departments.
• Frequently interacts with senior management and/or executives on matters concerning several functional areas, divisions,and/or customers
• Prepare high-level policy briefings, position papers, and advocacy materials to influence decision-makers effectively.  
• Support strategic partnerships with public and private sector stakeholders to advance national genomics initiatives and precision medicine programs.  
•  Lead public affairs initiatives to enhance Illumina’s visibility and thought leadership in the genomics and innovation ecosystem.  
• Ensure compliance with local regulatory frameworks and ethical business practices.  

 

Qualifications & Experience  

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent
• 10+ years of experience in government affairs in Saudi Arabia and Middle East region
• Significant understanding Saudi Arabia’s healthcare transformation strategy, and regulatory landscape in life sciences and healthcare.  
• Proven track record of engaging with senior government officials, policymakers, and other relevant stakeholders
• Experience navigating policy environments in the Middle East, particularly within the GCC.  
• Strategic Leader with excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.  
• Ability to develop strategic advocacy campaigns and drive policy change.  
• Fluency in Arabic and English
• Strong ability to synthesize complex policy information.  
• Demonstrated leadership in cross-functional teams and ability to influence without direct authority.  

Illumina believes that everyone has the ability to make an impact, and we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information.