Director, Policy and External Engagement

Director, Policy and External Engagement | Medicines Australia Medicines Australia, the peak body representing the innovative pharmaceutical industry, has exclusively engaged On Q Recruitment to appoint a Director, Policy and External Engagement, a senior leadership position that sits at the very heart of one of Australia's most consequential health sectors.

Are you an experienced policy professional looking to step into a role with real influence, complexity, and impact? Join Medicines Australia and help shape the future of a highly regulated, fast‑evolving sector.

About the Role This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of Australia’s innovative, research‑driven pharmaceutical sector at a national level.

As Director, Policy and External Engagement at Medicines Australia you will lead strategic policy development and drive influential engagement across government, industry and the broader health ecosystem. This role places you at the centre of conversations that determine how Australians access cutting‑edge therapies, with major national reforms related to pharmaceuticals a key focus. You’ll champion ethical, sustainable policy settings, amplify the voice of medical innovation, ultimately ensuring that Australians can access the medicines they need, when they need them.

You will navigate and harness a diverse stakeholder landscape, including member associations, industry partners, and government agencies. Success in this position requires the ability to manage a high volume of work, operate confidently, and balance strategic priorities with hands‑on operational delivery.

What You’ll Bring You’ll bring experience working in policy roles within regulated environments, ideally within the pharmaceutical or broader health sector.

Your background includes managing a diverse range of stakeholders, ideally within member‑based structures, and you’re confident exercising sound judgement to make autonomous decisions when needed.

You thrive in organisations that are less hierarchical and more fluid, adapting quickly while maintaining clarity and direction. Your ability to collaborate effectively, lead with resilience, and build trusted relationships will be central to your success. Just as importantly, you’re comfortable operating across both strategic and operational domains, shifting gears seamlessly as priorities evolve.

Why Join Medicines Australia This role offers a unique opportunity to accelerate your career while contributing to work that genuinely shapes the future of the pharmaceutical sector in Australia.

You’ll gain exposure to innovative industry developments and emerging policy issues, positioning you at the forefront of change. You’ll also play a key role in influencing major policy topics with government and industry stakeholders, giving you a platform to influence outcomes at a national level. Alongside this, you’ll have access to leadership development programs and clear pathways for professional growth.

If you’re looking for a role where your expertise can make a meaningful impact within a sector undergoing significant transformation, this is an opportunity worth exploring.

This role is open to candidates located in Canberra, Sydney or Melbourne.

Please note: an expectation of regular travel to Canberra (approx. once a fortnight), for key meetings and team management responsibilities. Accommodation will be provided for those travelling from outside Canberra.

Why This Matters The decisions made in this role influence the health of all Australians, by shaping policy that impacts which medicines Australians can access and when. That's a rare professional purpose and it's the reason the right candidate won't just want this role—they will feel compelled by it.

How to Apply On Q Recruitment is managing this executive search on behalf of Medicines Australia. We invite qualified candidates who are excited by this opportunity to submit their application materials.

Application Requirements

Current curriculum vitae / resume

Cover letter addressing the selection criteria, including the listed below:

Strong health policy experience, preferable with exposure to both industry and government

Experience in building relationships and delivering outcomes with diverse stakeholders

People leadership experience and a proven track record in building/managing a high performing team

Closing date: 18th March 2026 Please note that applications will be assessed on a rolling basis during the application window. Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as their application materials are ready. Early submission may provide more flexibility for interview scheduling.

To express your interest or request a confidential brief, please contact Catherine O’Mahony or Jodie Jokhan. All enquiries are managed with complete discretion.

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