External Affairs Manager, Slovenia

About the role

The External Affairs Manager for Slovenia develops and implements strategic government affairs, corporate affairs and external communication activities. The role builds positive relationships with government agencies, business and trade associations, policymakers, healthcare stakeholders, patient associations, media representatives and the local community, and keeps AbbVie aligned with legislative and policy developments. Responsibilities are split equally between Government Affairs and Corporate Affairs.

Key responsibilities

• Government Affairs: monitor and analyse legislative, regulatory and policy developments affecting the pharmaceutical market in Slovenia; develop and run government affairs strategies; provide policy and stakeholder intelligence; build relationships with government officials, industry associations and healthcare authorities; represent AbbVie in policy negotiations with ministries, health authorities, public payers and insurance institutions; work with Market Access, Medical, Legal, Communications and Commercial teams.
• Corporate Affairs: drive corporate communication and external affairs to build and protect AbbVie's reputation; design communication strategies using data-driven narratives and third-party support; manage media relations and advocacy campaigns; support public representation of senior leadership; partner with patient advocacy groups, universities and professional associations; integrate external affairs into broader marketing and business campaigns.

Required profile

• University degree in Political Science, Public Affairs, Law, Economics, Health Policy or a related discipline.
• Professional experience in public affairs, government affairs or corporate communications, preferably in healthcare or a highly regulated environment.
• Proven experience in stakeholder management, government relations and policy advocacy.
• Strong understanding of healthcare policy and regulatory frameworks in Slovenia and the wider region.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, presentation and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to turn complex policy and scientific topics into clear, credible messages.
• Strategic thinking, problem-solving and ability to work in a dynamic matrix environment.
• Business-proficiency English; Slovenian is essential.

Applications close on 17 November and must be submitted directly by CV in English; the company does not work with recruitment agencies. Office days are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.