Head of Patient Engagement & Activation

Merck • Billerica, MA

1d

About The Position

The Head of Patient Engagement & Activation leads the enterprise strategy, governance, and execution of patient engagement and activation initiatives across therapeutic areas and geographies. The function covers patient engagement strategy, patient activation programs, patient journey excellence, patient experience initiatives, omnichannel patient engagement, and integration of patient insights.

The role develops and implements a comprehensive strategy that empowers patients to become active participants in their healthcare journey. It ensures patient perspectives are systematically incorporated into Medical Affairs activities and develops engagement programs intended to improve awareness, health literacy, treatment activation, adherence, persistence, and patient outcomes. The role works closely with Patient Advocacy, Clinical Development, and Clinical Development Operations to support a harmonized approach toward patients and patient groups.

The position reports to the Head of External Medical Engagement within the Global Medical Affairs Organization.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in Pharmacy, Life Sciences, Public Health, Healthcare, Psychology, Nursing, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of healthcare or pharmaceutical experience.
• Significant patient engagement and advocacy experience.
• Competencies in patient engagement, behavioral science, patient journey management, and digital health.
• Leadership competencies in strategy, influence, stakeholder management, innovation, and change leadership.

Nice To Haves

• Global leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the global patient engagement strategy.
• Develop long-term patient activation roadmaps.
• Establish patient-centered standards across Medical Affairs.
• Integrate patient perspectives into organizational decision-making.
• Build patient activation frameworks.
• Oversee patient journey mapping activities.
• Co-lead patient advocacy partnerships.
• Develop omnichannel patient engagement models.
• Lead patient engagement teams globally.
• Develop internal capabilities in patient-centricity.
• Partner with Medical Affairs, Patient Advocacy, Market Access, Commercial Excellence, Digital Health, and Public Affairs.
• Ensure ethical patient engagement.
• Maintain compliance with healthcare regulations and industry codes.

Benefits

• Opportunities for personal development and career advancement.
• Access and opportunities to develop and grow at your own pace.
• Inclusive and flexible working culture.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior