Head of Public Affairs

The Head of Public Policy is responsible for shaping, influencing and managing policy and regulatory environments that impact the hospitals operations. This role leads advocacy efforts with government bodies, regulatory agencies, industry associations and external stakeholders. The position ensures compliance with healthcare regulations while driving strategic initiatives that enhance the organizations reputation and advance its policy priorities.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Policy Strategy & Advocacy

• Develop and execute a comprehensive public policy and government engagement strategy aligned with the hospitals business goals.
• Track, analyze and interpret legislative and regulatory developments in healthcare (pricing regulations, clinical establishment norms, insurance frameworks, digital health policies, accreditation, PPP models, etc.).
• Lead advocacy on issues affecting the hospital group, including regulatory approvals, licensing, pricing controls, healthcare quality standards, telemedicine, and insurance.
• Prepare policy briefs, position papers, white papers, and representations to government authorities.
• Liaise with ministries (Health, Commerce, Finance, Labour), NHA, IRDAI, NABH, state health departments, and municipal bodies.

B. Stakeholder Engagement

• Build strong relationships with key government stakeholders, policymakers, industry associations, chambers of commerce, and think tanks.
• Represent the hospital in industry forums such as FICCI, CII, NATHEALTH, AHPI, etc.
• Facilitate dialogues between hospital leadership and government officials regarding policy issues, reforms, and partnerships.

C. Regulatory & Compliance Alignment

• Monitor compliance requirements and work closely with legal, clinical, operations, and quality teams to ensure adherence to healthcare regulations.
• Provide guidance on policy implications of new projects, expansions, and new service launches.
• Manage timely submission of regulatory filings, renewals, and license updates.

D. Government Relations & Public Affairs

• Develop and maintain proactive government relations to support business approvals, clearances, and strategic partnerships (PPP projects, medical education, public health programs).
• Support crisis management and reputation management initiatives related to regulatory or policy matters.
• Coordinate government visits, audits, inspections, and official meetings.

E. Internal Collaboration & Leadership

• Work with senior leadership to anticipate policy trends and incorporate them into business planning.
• Train internal teams on regulatory and policy changes affecting operations.

Lead a team (if applicable) of policy analysts and GR executives.

Skills and Experience

• Masters degree in Public Policy, Health Administration, Law, Political Science, Public Health, or related field.
• 1018 years of experience in public policy, government affairs, or regulatory affairspreferably in hospitals, healthcare services, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, or large corporate public affairs.
• Strong understanding of Indias healthcare laws, clinical establishment norms, regulatory frameworks and public health policies.
• Experience engaging with senior government officials and regulatory bodies.

• Effective influence on key policy decisions benefiting the hospital group.
• Reduced regulatory risks and improved compliance health.
• Strong relationships with key government and industry stakeholders.
• Successful advocacy outcomes (pricing, licensing, insurance negotiations, etc.).
• Timely regulatory approvals and renewals.
• Positive representation of the hospital in public and policy forums.