Associate Director Government Affairs

Position Overview

• Location Type:
• Job Type: Full time
• Salary:

Illumina is dedicated to expanding access to genomic technology to achieve health equity for billions worldwide. Our work drives life-changing discoveries that transform human health through early disease detection, diagnosis, and new treatment options. Working at Illumina means contributing to something significant, with opportunities to make a difference in every role.

In collaboration with the Senior Director and Head of Government Affairs Emerging Markets, the Associate Director, Government Affairs Middle East, with a focus on Saudi Arabia, will lead the development and implementation of corporate policy. This role involves strategic partnerships with government and industry groups to align with business objectives and advance Illumina’s mission in the region. The Associate Director will act as the organization's primary contact for legislative and public policy matters, fostering relationships with key government and industry stakeholders to promote company interests. This includes preparing policy briefings, providing thought leadership, and ensuring appropriate company participation in government and industry forums. The role requires influencing public policy, monitoring government initiatives, and advocating for plans that advance the company’s objectives.

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

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 (e.g., 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 (commercial, market access, legal, CSR) to align government engagement efforts with business priorities.
• Prepare high-level policy briefings, position papers, and advocacy materials to effectively influence decision-makers.
• 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.

Requirements

• 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.

Company Information

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.