Head of CEO and Internal Communications

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity? 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.

Role Overview

This critical role will lead internal communications and CEO communication, reporting to the Head of Communications. This role will serve as the CEO’s communication partner, building communications strategy, CEO’s voice application, and working with center of excellence partners to execute across internal and external channels.

This role is responsible for leading a team of seven in developing and implementing internal communication strategies that drive targeted outcomes. Part strategic planner, advisor, influencer, and marketer, this role plays a critical role in inspiring strategic alignment with employees, trust in senior leaders, and brand positioning.

The role requires regular onsite presence at Illumina headquarters in San Diego, CA.

• This person must reside in San Diego or be able to relocate (relocation assistance offered).

Key Responsibilities

Support the CEO

• Craft compelling content on behalf of the CEO, translating our mission and purpose into meaningful stories and developing powerful messaging that drives Illumina’s corporate positioning and brand.
• Partner with the external communications centers of excellence leader to create CEO’s external presence in support of corporate strategy.
• Draft concise yet thorough briefing materials used to prepare the CEO for engagements.
• Stay up to date on current events that may be relevant to CEO communications and build a solid network of subject matter experts to provide background, opinions, and clarification.

Lead Internal Communications

• Establish communication strategy and message map, ensuring buy-in from key stakeholders.
• Establish engaging internal (employee) communication strategies to drive measurable results including employee engagement and trust & confidence in senior leaders.
• Lead functional/business unit communications partners to ensure implementation of enterprise strategies and deep understanding of business-related communications initiatives.
• Build operational excellence, implement processes that drive long-term planning, high-quality content gathering, and rigorous execution across all aspects of Internal communications.
• Develop specific metrics and adjust strategy and tactics over time based on results.
• Ensure all communications deliverables stay on track and deliver results, manage reviews, overall cadence, and regular metrics reporting.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Strong proven leadership and operational excellence.
• Project management skills with strong ability to lead team for results.
• Ability to develop relationships at all levels of an organization and across functions with a collaborative work style but a bias for action.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of genetics and/or biology preferred.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Agency experience desirable.

Qualifications

• Minimum education required: Bachelor's degree.
• Background in healthcare, life sciences, biology or genetics or equivalent knowledge strongly preferred.
• 5+ years of relevant experience working with senior executives or public figures.
• 10+ years effective team leadership.

The estimated base salary range for the Head of CEO and Internal Communications role based in the United States of America is: $201,100 - $301,700. Should the level or location of the role change during the hiring process, the applicable base pay range may be updated accordingly. Compensation decisions are dependent on several factors including, but not limited to, an individual’s qualifications, location where the role is to be performed, internal equity, and alignment with market data. Additionally, all employees are eligible for one of our variable cash programs (bonus or commission) and eligible roles may receive equity as part of the compensation package. We offer a wide range of benefits as innovative as our work, including access to genomics sequencing, family planning, health/dental/vision, retirement benefits, and paid time off.

At Illumina, we strive to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace by cultivating an environment in which everyone contributes to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always been rooted in openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative views and perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race. We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences, increase cultural awareness, and demonstrate our collective commitment to diversity and inclusion in the communities we live and work. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information. If you require accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.