Corporate Affairs Director - Central Europe

About MVH Europe

Mars Veterinary Health (MVH) Europe is a family of leading veterinary care providers committed to creating a better world for pets. Our network includes trusted brands such as AniCura and Linnaeus, operating over 500 animal hospitals and clinics across 17 European countries. Together, our teams deliver high-quality, modern veterinary care for companion animals, ensuring peace of mind for pet owners through excellent access and patient safety.

AniCura, our largest brand in Europe, provides care to over three million patients each year through 12,500 dedicated professionals. Linnaeus, operating primarily in the UK and Ireland, is home to over 6,000 Associates empowered to deliver exceptional care through a culture of collaboration, clinical excellence, and continuous development.

At MVH Europe, we prioritize a culture of accountability, inclusion, and wellbeing. We believe our purpose — to make A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS — starts with building a better world for our people. We support our teams through strong governance, comprehensive wellbeing programs, and a shared passion for delivering exceptional outcomes in veterinary care.

Role Overview

The Corporate Affairs Director – Central leads the development and execution of the Corporate Affairs (CA) strategy across our central operating unit ensuring alignment with global Mars Petcare objectives and local business priorities across Operating Units (OUs).

This role acts as the strategic architect and integrator of Corporate Affairs in Europe, overseeing reputation management, strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, and issues/crisis management .

As a member of the MVHE Leadership Team and the Global Corporate Affairs community , the role shapes internal and external narratives that strengthen Mars’ position as a trusted leader in veterinary health and pet care.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and Execute the European Corporate Affairs Strategy

• Design and implement a comprehensive Corporate Affairs and public relations strategy for the European region.
• Ensure alignment with MVHE strategic priorities and local market realities, including setting annual communication goals and managing cross-functional coordination.

Engage and Influence Key Stakeholders

• Act as a primary liaison with European and national government bodies, industry associations, NGOs, and community leaders.
• Build and nurture long‑term relationships that support the organization’s license to operate, manage emerging policy risks, and advocate for favorable regulatory outcomes.

Manage Issues and Crisis Communications

• Lead the preparation and response to high‑stakes or sensitive public issues at the regional level.
• Oversee communication protocols, scenario planning, and act as a key spokesperson for MVHE when needed, ensuring transparency and message consistency.

Lead Internal Communications

• Oversee internal communication across OUs, ensuring alignment with the MVHE internal communications strategy.
• Support market‑specific communication needs (e.g., regulatory updates, organizational changes, clinic openings, awards, and events).

Integrate Market Intelligence into Strategy

• Gather insights from local markets, regulatory developments, and stakeholder feedback to inform and refine global Corporate Affairs strategies.
• Ensure that headquarters remains informed about relevant developments that could impact MVHE’s reputation or business environment.

Oversee External Communications and Media Relations

• Direct media relations activities, including press releases, interviews, events, and media training for local leaders.
• Safeguard brand integrity through consistent messaging and proactive storytelling that reinforces MVHE’s purpose and values.

Summary of the Role

• Job Title: Corporate Affairs Director - Central
• Contract: Full‑time
• Languages: Fluency in English and German (additional European languages are a plus)

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in Corporate Affairs, external communications, media relations, or public relations.
• Proven track record in executing successful PR or corporate communication campaigns.
• Strong understanding of digital communication channels and social media strategies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and German; other European languages are an advantage.
• Regional Adaptability: Operates effectively across diverse markets and cultures.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Builds and maintains trusted, long‑term relationships.
• Policy Acumen: Understands public policy trends and their business implications.
• Strategic Communication: Crafts clear, consistent narratives aligned with organizational purpose.
• Our offer: Join a purpose‑driven company, where we’re striving to shape the future of veterinary care, together.
• Industry‑competitive salary and benefits package.
• A stimulating work environment with good opportunities for personal development.
• Freedom to take responsibility and the opportunity to influence.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• The opportunity to cuddle our beloved 4‑legged friends in our offices.
• We are always open for a conversation to discuss your individual needs.

Interested?

Please contact Lekya Kanamarlapudi, Group Corporate Recruitment Partner who is happy to tell you more about this opportunity and the recruitment process. Or apply by submitting your resume through clicking the apply button below.

MVHE is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds.

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