Associate Director, Government Affairs - LatAm (Sao Paulo / Hybrid)

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity?
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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.
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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.
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Position Title: Associate Director, Government Affairs (Latin America)

Location: São Paulo, Brazil (Hybrid). This is a full-time role, Monday through Friday, with an expectation of 2–3 in-office days per week and additional on-site presence as needed. The individual must reside in the Sao Paulo area and be able to commute to our corporate offices.

Reports to: Senior Director, Head of Government Affairs, Europe, Middle East, Africa & Latin America

Position Summary:

At Illumina, we are transforming human health by unlocking the power of the genome. We are seeking a strategic and experienced Associate Director, Government Affairs to drive external engagement and public policy strategy across Latin America, with a primary focus on advancing the adoption of innovative genomic testing.

This role is responsible for aligning public policy and government relations efforts to support Illumina’s growth and mission in the region. The ideal candidate combines strong expertise in healthcare policy with substantial experience in government engagement and a proven ability to navigate complex political and health systems.

Key Responsibilities:

- Develop and execute government affairs strategies that align public policy and external engagement objectives across Latin America, with a focus on priority markets (Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Argentina).
- Build and maintain trusted relationships with key stakeholders, including government ministries, health authorities, policymakers and regulatory institutions.
- Shape national policy environments to support the adoption of innovative genomic testing.
- Lead the development of country-specific government affairs strategies, reflecting political, legislative and healthcare policy priorities.
- Represent Illumina in relevant policy forums, working groups and trade associations to position the company as a partner in advancing precision medicine.
- Monitor and analyze political, legislative, regulatory and healthcare policy developments, providing strategic insights and guidance to internal teams.
- Engage policymakers and public-sector stakeholders to communicate the clinical and societal value of genomics and advance supportive policy frameworks.
- Coordinate with cross-functional teams, including Medical Affairs, Patient Advocacy, Communications and Regulatory, to support policy initiatives and external engagement.
- Ensure all external engagements are conducted in accordance with applicable compliance, ethics and corporate governance standards.

Qualifications:

- Typically requires a Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 15 years of related experience, with 7+ years of Management experience.
- Extensive, progressively responsible experience in government affairs, public policy or external affairs within the life sciences, diagnostics or pharmaceutical sector.
- In-depth knowledge of political and healthcare systems in Latin America, particularly Brazil, Colombia, Mexico and Argentina.
- Proven ability to influence public policy through strategic government engagement and evidence-based advocacy.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with experience working cross-functionally and internationally.
- Fluency in English and Portuguese, with professional proficiency in Spanish.
- Ability to travel up to 40% domestically and internationally as required.

Education:

- University degree in International Relations, Law, Public Policy, Political Science, Life Sciences or a related field.

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We are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritized openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative 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 offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility. 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. Illumina conducts background checks on applicants for whom a conditional offer of employment has been made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws. Background check results may potentially result in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment. The background check process and any decisions made as a result shall be made in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws. Illumina prohibits the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the application and interview process. If you require accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact [email protected]. To learn more, visit: https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf. The position will be posted until a final candidate is selected or the requisition has a sufficient number of qualified applicants. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.