Associate Director (Healthcare advertising)

Havas Life London is not just evolving; we’re reimagining what a health and wellness agency can be. We’re building a destination for the brightest minds, the boldest ideas, and the kind of creativity that reshapes industries.

We’re a collective of curious thinkers, courageous makers, and kind collaborators. The culture we’re building is fast, fearless, and future-facing, driven by a belief that creativity is the most powerful force for growth.

We are vibrant collaborators, smart decision-makers, and believers in a win-or-learn mindset. Our emerging creative culture is built on curiosity, courage, and kindness. We expect more from ourselves and those who join our high-performance team.

As part of the Havas Health network, we’re pushing boundaries, embracing AI and emerging tech, and reimagining how strategic creativity can unlock new value for clients across the globe. We’re here to make London the beating heart of global health communications. Be the go-to creative strategic partner for our network colleagues and client partners alike.

The role

As an Associate Director, you will lead the management of multiple large and complex client service deliveries, acting as a high-level strategic partner. You will provide senior-level counsel, helping clients anticipate challenges and providing value-added solutions by utilizing the full breadth of the agency's competencies. You will lead by example, demonstrating an in-depth understanding of your clients' business, therapy areas, and the wider market environment to direct the account teams' work.

Your role goes beyond client delivery; you will play a significant role in business development, seeking out organic growth opportunities and leading high-profile new business pitches. You will be responsible for the growth and empowerment of your team, ensuring that agency strategy cascades into operational excellence and that all work meets our rigorous quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the management of multiple and complex client service deliveries, providing senior-level strategic counsel and partnership
• Proactively identify, win, and develop business opportunities, leading the preparation and presentation of new business pitches
• Direct and support the account team in developing and negotiating project budgets, maintaining overall responsibility for account profitability and internal financial reporting
• Mentor and empower account teams (including SAEs and SAMs), providing effective coaching and managing performance to ensure they fulfill their potential
• Establish and reinforce strong relationships with key client personnel, including marketing, medical, and procurement teams
• Oversee resource planning and staff requirements, making recommendations to senior leadership to ensure all account demands are serviced effectively
• Ensure the account team adheres to all agency processes and quality checks, while maintaining accountability for team outputs
• Partner with other Havas network providers to secure larger, integrated business wins

About you:

• Proven experience in senior client account handling within a communications agency, with a deep focus on pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors
• A strategic powerhouse with a solution-focused mindset and the ability to anticipate industry trends and client needs
• An inspiring leader who acts as a positive role model and mentor, with a track record of successfully managing and developing direct reports
• Commercially astute with strong financial acumen and experience managing large-scale account budgets and profitability
• A collaborative partner who can navigate complex organizations, influence stakeholders, and work diplomatically across integrated teams
• Growth-oriented, with the drive and confidence to lead high-stakes new business pitches and identify organic growth opportunities