Assistant/Associate Director, U.S. Public Policy

Job Details

Description

Headquartered in Carlsbad, California, and with offices in Boston, Massachusetts, and Dublin, Ireland, Ionis has been at work for more than three decades discovering medical breakthroughs that have redefined life for people with serious diseases. We’re pioneers in RNA-targeted medicines, and our platform continues to revolutionize drug discovery and transform lives for patients with unmet needs. With multiple marketed medicines and a leading pipeline in neurology, cardiology and select areas of high patient needs, we continue to drive innovation in RNA therapies in addition to advancing new approaches in gene editing to provide greater value to patients and are well positioned financially to deliver on our strategic goals.

At Ionis, we pride ourselves on cultivating a challenging, motivating and rewarding environment that fosters innovation and scientific excellence. We know that our success is a direct result of the exceptional talents and dedication of our employees. 

With an unprecedented opportunity to change the course of human health, we look to add diverse individuals, skill sets and perspectives to our exceptional team. We continue to invest time, money and energy into making our onsite, hybrid and remote work environments a place where solid and lasting relationships are built and where our culture and employees can thrive. 

We’re building on our rich history, and we believe our greatest achievements are ahead of us. If you’re passionate about the opportunity to have meaningful impact on patients in need, we invite you to apply and join us. Experience and contribute to our unique culture while you develop and expand your career!

Assistant /Associate Director, U.S. Public Policy

SUMMARY:

Ionis is seeking a dynamic individual to play a critical role in supporting the development and execution of our government affairs and public policy strategy. Reporting to the Executive Director, Government Affairs and Policy, the Assistant/Associate Director will serve as a core policy lead responsible for anticipating, identifying and analyzing legislative and regulatory developments; supporting external engagement; and translating complex policy issues into clear business implications and recommended actions.

This individual will combine strong analytical capabilities with practical execution skills and thrives in a fast-paced, growth-oriented biotech environment. This individual will also work effectively and operate at all levels of the organization, driving cross-functional alignment on key policy activities and recommendations.

The Assistant/Associate Director role offers the opportunity to join a growing Government Affairs function and play a hands-on role in shaping and advancing policy at a pivotal stage in our evolution. This role may be filled at the Assistant Director or Associate Director level, depending on the demonstrated scope of experience and preferably located in Washington, DC (Remote).

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Monitor and track U.S. federal and state legislative, regulatory, and agency activity affecting pharmaceutical pricing, reimbursement, coverage, and access, with a focus on commercialized and near-launch products
• Assess and analyze policy developments for operational, financial, and patient access impact
• Proactively identify and translate policy developments into practical insights with enterprise-wide implications and/or relevance to pricing, reimbursement, coverage, and patient access
• Work collaboratively to ensure cross-functional alignment between policy strategy and business objectives
• Draft and refine comment letters, position statements, policy briefs, talking points, and internal materials, ensuring timelines are met and cross-functional input is incorporated
• Assist in managing external consultants, including policy advisors and lobbying firms, to support legislative and policy priorities, coordinating deliverables, track progress, and ensure alignment with Ionis Government Affairs and Policy strategy
• Represent the company in relevant trade associations, coalitions, and policy working groups, particularly those focused on pricing, patient access, and innovation
• Other duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS: 

• Bachelor’s degree in public policy, health policy, public health, political science, economics, or related field required; advanced degree preferred
• 8+ years of experience in government affairs, public policy, health policy, or a related role within biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, government, trade associations, or consulting
• Demonstrated understanding of Medicare drug payment systems within Medicare Part B and Medicare Part D, and U.S. Federal/State legislative, regulatory, and health care systems
• Demonstrated familiarity with U.S. federal and state legislative and regulatory processes
• Ability to effectively translate complex policy topics into clear business implications and recommended actions
• Excellent policy research, analytical, and synthesis skills with high attention to detail
• Self-reliant, good problem solver, results-oriented, with the ability to make decisions in a rapidly changing policy environment and anticipate future needs
• Exceptional written, oral, interpersonal and presentation skills
• Excellent networking and relationship-building skills and the ability to counsel, influence and engage with confidence with various levels and functions
• Travel is required (up to 10-15%)