The role of medical affairs in pharmaceutical and medical device companies is gaining prominence. Medical writers will increasingly find themselves supporting medical affairs activities or, indeed, transitioning to jobs within medical affairs departments. But, what does this field allied to medical communications involve? To learn more, the authors explored the literature and interviewed two senior medical affairs professionals from different industries. They discovered that medical affairs professionals have a strategic role, handle scientific dialogue, promote partnerships between stakeholders, and anticipate trends in the healthcare sector. While an MD or PhD is desirable for potential candidates, a scientific degree is acceptable. Working with medical affairs can be demanding, but there are attractions: good work-life balance and salary, diversity of activity, and opportunities to attend international conferences. Medical writers may be involved in publications, regulatory activities, research, meetings, and educational outputs. Medical affairs continues to evolve into a bridge between science and commerce which strives to be the ‘honest broker’. It is increasingly becoming the face of the health industry and a strategic pillar within many companies.