Syeda Hasnain

Syeda has been Merck’s Head of Communications UKIE since early 2023. At Merck, her approach evolving external communications and piloting new media tactics has garnered notable national media coverage across therapy areas, including elevating the thought leadership of Merck UK’s leadership team. Syeda frequently represents Merck at PR and communications conferences, and was recognised this year in PR Week UK’s PowerBook. Last year she was part of the PowerBook’s Top 10 individuals in healthcare and pharma PR.

Prior to her role in the industry, she worked in public sector communications for over a decade. Her roles included Head of Communications at an NHS AHSC working with leading London teaching hospitals, and overseeing press work as Chief Communications Officer at the UK Department of Health and Social Care. She also worked in media at NHS England and the NHS regulator in addition to other government roles. Syeda originally qualified and worked in law, completed a Masters in public relations in 2024 and is currently studying part-time for an MBA. She lives in Berkshire with her husband and two daughters.