Regional Franchise Director Pharma & NPP

About the role

The Regional Franchise Director Pharma and New Product Planning is the regional commercial owner and ambassador for the Pharma franchise and all early pipeline assets (excluding Oncology) across Asia Pacific. The role shapes franchise strategy, brand planning, portfolio prioritization, forecasting and lifecycle strategy, and drives cross-functional execution. It works with the regional marketing team to turn global strategy into actionable plans and to bring the AP perspective to key decisions.

Key responsibilities

• Own and articulate the regional strategy for the Pharma franchise and its brands, and act as the regional ambassador and subject-matter expert.
• Define what is standard versus localised across messaging, campaigns and execution, and own the brand narrative.
• Lead the regional Specialty, Pharma and Infectious Disease pipeline strategy, including prioritization, sequencing, market focus and resource allocation.
• Lead new product planning for priority pipeline assets, from early commercial assessment through launch readiness, and oversee forecasting, Stage Gate and EGTM deliverables.
• Connect global, regional and local teams so that global strategies remain locally relevant without dilution or duplication.
• Mobilise cross-functional teams (marketing, sales, access, medical, finance, policy) and drive launch preparation, brand activation and lifecycle management.
• Partner with markets, Business Unit Directors and MDs, and build marketing capability through coaching and guidance.

Required profile

• 10 years of pharmaceutical industry experience with strong exposure to oncology, specialty care or innovative medicines.
• Bachelor's degree in business, life sciences or a related field.
• Substantial regional or global experience in strategic marketing, portfolio strategy, new product planning or lifecycle management.
• People management experience with a track record of coaching and developing talent.
• Preferred: broad knowledge of Asia Pacific market dynamics and access environments, experience engaging global development, commercial or governance teams, an advanced degree (MBA, MSc) and consultancy experience in pharma/life sciences.

Required skills

• Strategic thinking, business acumen and analytical skills, synthesising market insights into strategic recommendations.
• Ability to influence across a matrix and lead complex cross-functional initiatives without direct authority.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management and executive presentation skills.