Director, Product Communications

Vera Therapeutics Inc.•Brisbane, CA

65d

About The Position

We are seeking a strategic and dynamic Director, Product Communications, who is passionate about connecting patient stories with breakthrough science to help change the course of immunological kidney disease. As we advance our late-stage product candidate through clinical development, this leader will play a pivotal role in driving strategy and executing a comprehensive product communications program from BLA filing through anticipated product approval and lifecycle management. This role will work closely with our Commercial organization to support a potential product launch in 2026 and will collaborate cross-functionally to build awareness, understanding, and confidence among healthcare professionals, patients, advocacy groups, media, and internal stakeholders. The ideal candidate is both a strategist and a builder. Someone who thrives on creating compelling narratives from complex science, has experience supporting product launches, and can seamlessly manage multiple communications projects. As a key member of the Corporate Communications team, which takes its work seriously but not itself, you'll help build the communications framework that drives Vera's growth and success.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Life Sciences, Public Relations, or a related field; advanced degree or equivalent experience preferred.
10+ years of experience in healthcare, biotech, or pharmaceutical communications, with a proven record of driving successful product launches and disease awareness campaigns.
Strong understanding of FDA regulations, healthcare compliance, and the clinical development and approval process.
Exceptional storytelling ability with outstanding written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills to translate complex science into clear, compelling messages.
Proven success managing media relations, digital and social media, issues management, and internal communications in a fast-paced, matrixed environment.
Strategic thinker with strong project management, analytical, and problem-solving skills, able to connect communications initiatives to business goals and measure their impact.
Experienced in building trust and collaboration across senior leadership, cross-functional teams, agency partners, and patient or advocacy communities.
Creative, hands-on leader with an entrepreneurial mindset and the ability to inspire teams and deliver results under pressure.

Responsibilities

Lead the development and execution of an integrated external communications strategy for Vera's first potential product launch and late-stage pipeline assets.
Design and implement a multi-channel approach, including earned, sponsored, social, and owned media, to engage healthcare professionals, patients, advocacy partners, policymakers, and media.
Serve as company spokesperson and oversee media relations, shaping proactive narratives and managing responses to emerging issues.
Partner cross-functionally with Commercial, Medical Affairs, Regulatory, Legal, R&D, Investor Relations, and Advocacy teams to ensure consistent, aligned messaging.
Develop and execute communications for key milestones, including clinical data releases, regulatory announcements, and launch activities.
Provide strategic counsel to senior leadership, preparing executives and subject matter experts for media interviews, presentations, and public appearances.
Manage agency partners and PR resources, ensuring high-quality execution, consistency, and adherence to budgets and compliance standards.
Create clear and compelling content that communicates the scientific and patient impact of Vera's products and pipeline.
Measure and report communications effectiveness through defined KPIs, leveraging insights to refine long-term strategies.
Foster a collaborative, high-performing culture within the Corporate Communications team that values creativity, excellence, and teamwork.