Head of Employee Communications, Engagement, Diversity & Inclusion and Change

Merck Group$180K — $270K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • 15+ years experience in internal communications, change management, and employee engagement, preferably in Life Science.
  • Hands-on leadership of cross-functional teams in matrix environments; strong influence with senior stakeholders.
  • Strategic thinker with a practical, results-driven approach to leadership.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in English; multilingual skills are advantageous.
  • Data-driven mentality capable of translating metrics into actionable improvements.
  • Experience building and scaling a Center of Excellence for change management with tools and training.
  • Familiar with DEI concepts and able to integrate an inclusive culture into daily operations.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the strategy and execution of internal communications and employee engagement initiatives.
  • Develop scalable tools, playbooks, and training for global implementation.
  • Collaborate closely with Leadership, HR, and Communications teams to ensure alignment on strategy.
  • Guide cross-functional teams to translate strategies into actionable programs.
  • Ensure on-time and within-budget delivery of initiatives with measurable engagement gains.
  • Build trust and clarity within the organization during change initiatives.
  • Enhance the employee experience by crafting compelling communication strategies.

Benefits

  • Health insurance coverage.
  • Paid time off (PTO).
  • Retirement contributions.
  • Additional benefits and perks.
Full Job Description
Your role:

You will lead the strategy and execution of internal communications, employee engagement, D&I, and change initiatives across Life Science. Shaping a Center of Excellence for Change in Life Science, your role involves developing scalable tools, playbooks, and training for global deployment. Working closely with Leadership, HR, and Communications, you will guide cross-functional teams to translate strategy into actionable programs, delivering on time and within budget with measurable gains in engagement, adoption, and an inclusive culture. At the heart of your mission is building trust, bringing clarity, and crafting a compelling employee experience that accelerates strategic change.

Who you are:

Minimum requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree.
  • 15+ years' experience in internal communications, change management, and/or employee engagement in a global organization, Life Science experience preferred.
  • Proven, hands-on leadership of cross-functional teams in matrix environments; excels at influencing senior stakeholders.
  • Strategic thinker with a practical, result-driven leadership style; comfortable guiding ambiguity to concrete outcomes.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in English; multilingual capabilities a plus.
  • Data-driven mindset with ability to translate metrics into actionable improvements.
  • Experienced in building and scaling a Center of Excellence for change management, with tools, playbooks, and training.
  • Familiar with DEI concepts and inclusive communication practices; able to embed belonging into daily work.
  • Collaborative partner to senior leaders, HR, Communications, and global functions across regions and languages.

Preferred requirements:
  • Master's degree or higher.

Pay Range for this position: $180,400 - $270,600

The offer range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base pay compensation for this position. The actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level of experience, education, skills, and other job-related factors. Position may be eligible for sales or performance-based bonuses. Benefits offered by the Company include health insurance, paid time off (PTO), retirement contributions, and other perquisites. For more information click here.

About Merck Group

Merck Group Careers

There has never been a more opportune time to join Merck Group, a leading science and technology company in healthcare, life science, and performance materials. Merck Group offers a plethora of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and professional aspirations, making it an ideal environment for both seasoned experts and those at the start of their career journey.

Work You’ll Do

At Merck Group, every team member contributes to breakthrough innovations in healthcare, life sciences, and electronics. The company's commitment to diversity and innovation fuels its leadership in various sectors, driving growth and transformation globally. Merck Group’s career paths are diverse, offering positions that challenge individuals to use their skills in new ways every day, supported by robust training programs and development opportunities.

Explore Job Opportunities and Growth

Merck Group is not just about jobs; it's about building a career. With a vast array of positions, from research and development to marketing and sales, the company is keen on hiring and nurturing talent to lead industry transformation. Merck Group’s dedication to professional growth is evident in its comprehensive benefits package and performance management processes that aim to maximize individual potential.

Internship Programs

Starting with an internship at Merck Group can be a pivotal step in securing a prosperous career. Interns gain invaluable industry experience, working alongside seasoned professionals and engaging in projects that offer real-world applications of their studies. Internships often lead to full-time employment opportunities, providing a seamless transition from education to professional employment.

Inclusive Culture and Leadership

Merck Group is proud of its inclusive culture that embraces diversity and fosters an environment where all employees can thrive. The company’s leadership is committed to creating a workplace where diverse ideas lead to innovative outcomes. Merck Group also offers diversity training to ensure all team members are equipped to contribute to the company’s inclusive goals.

Networking and Professional Development

Employees at Merck Group are encouraged to engage in networking and professional development activities that enhance their career trajectories. The company hosts various networking events, workshops, and seminars that are designed to hone skills and foster connections within the industry. Leadership development programs are also a cornerstone, preparing employees for future roles of increased responsibility.

Stay Connected with Merck Group Careers

Interested candidates can explore open positions that match their skills and interests through the Merck Group careers page. The company values curious, creative, and solution-driven team players who are eager to make an impact.

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Merck Group is continuously looking for individuals who are ready to drive innovation and lead in the global marketplace. Whether through full-time positions, internships, or leadership roles, Merck Group offers a career path filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and leadership.
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