At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead UK operations in sales, marketing, and business development for generics and specialty pharmaceuticals.
- Company: Established global leader in pharmaceuticals with a focus on innovation and quality.
- Benefits: Highly competitive package, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in the pharmaceutical industry while driving sustainable growth.
- Qualifications: Graduate in science, MBA preferred, with 10+ years in senior pharma roles.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a strong emphasis on compliance and ethical standards.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Overview
This is an exciting new opportunity working for an established company in Generics and Specialty Pharmaceuticals.
Role: UK Business Head – Sales Marketing and Business Development
Therapy Area: Generics and Specialty Pharmaceuticals
Package: Highly competitive package
Location: Hybrid – Hampshire Office/Home based – min 3 days per week in the office
This is a permanent headcount role.
Our client is seeking a dynamic Business Head to lead its operations across the UK and Western Europe. This position carries full P&L accountability and will oversee sales, marketing, business development, and supply chain functions. The role will focus on building a strong generics and specialty pharmaceutical business, delivering year-on-year growth (organic and through in-licensing), and ensuring compliance with UK and European regulations.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as the overall representative of the company in the UK, managing commercial, legal, reputational, and administrative aspects.
- Establish and execute robust front-end strategies to market, sell and distribute OTC, pharmacy, prescription, and CE-marked products across both B2C and B2B channels.
- Engage with wholesalers, pharmacy chains, supermarkets, and other national-level partners to drive sales.
- Pursue contract manufacturing (CMO) opportunities with UK MA holders for supply from accredited Indian plants.
- Own and deliver the National Business Plan including target setting, forecasting, resource allocation, and reporting.
- Conduct regular customer and field visits; engage CCGs, negotiate NHS tenders, and secure long-term supply contracts.
- Monitor NHS strategies, market dynamics, and competitor activity to drive innovative, insight-led business development.
- Recommend and shape future product lines through review of product specifications, requirements, and new product opportunities.
- Develop marketing and advertising strategies for OTC products, including promotional campaigns and retail support to maximise reach and frequency of purchase.
- Service existing accounts and establish new ones, building strong long-term relationships.
- Drive business results including top-line growth, gross contribution/EBITDA targets, and full P&L delivery.
- Ensure brand development and sustainable market share growth while building a demand-led business.
- Collaborate with corporate teams in India on new business strategies and untapped opportunities across the region.
- Manage supply chain efficiency to eliminate gaps between demand and supply.
- Prepare and present management reports on business performance and market outlook to senior leadership.
- Ensure compliance with local regulations and maintain the highest ethical and professional standards.
About the Company
Our client is a fully integrated pharmaceutical company, established in 1936 and recognised as a global leader in Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) and Ophthalmics. With world-class manufacturing facilities and a portfolio of 300+ products, the company serves patients in over 50 countries. Innovation, quality, and expanding access to healthcare are at the heart of its mission.
Qualifications
- Graduate, ideally in a science discipline.
- MBA from a leading business school preferred.
- Full UK Driving Licence.
Experience Required
- 10 plus years of senior-level sales and business development experience in UK/European pharma (branded and generics).
- Proven track record in general management, scaling businesses, and delivering sustainable growth.
- Strong knowledge of UK & European pharma markets, regulations, and commercial opportunities.
- High-energy, results-driven leader with strong strategic and execution skills.
- Excellent communicator and negotiator, able to influence at senior levels.
- Analytical, resourceful, and commercially astute, with the ability to define winning business models.
- Strong people leader who can inspire, coach, and empower teams.
- Resilient, adaptable, and comfortable navigating change in a dynamic environment.
- Must be based within 90 minutes of Southampton, with flexibility for office and field work.
- (Advantage, not essential): eligibility to act as Deputy Responsible Person.
How to Apply
If you are suitable for this position, please send a copy of your CV. Alternatively, call the recruitment team at Chemistree Solutions Ltd. Chemistree is a pharmaceutical and healthcare recruitment specialist.
Business Head in England employer: Chemistree Solutions Limited
Contact Detail:
Chemistree Solutions Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Head in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their products, market position, and recent news. We want to show them that you’re not just another candidate, but someone who genuinely cares about their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You need to be able to sell yourself just like you would sell a product. We recommend rehearsing your key achievements and how they relate to the role of Business Head, so you can impress them during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interviews. A simple thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. We suggest mentioning something specific from your conversation to remind them why you’re the perfect fit for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Head in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Business Head role. Highlight your experience in sales, marketing, and business development within the pharma sector. We want to see how your background aligns with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your duties; showcase your achievements! Use metrics to demonstrate how you’ve driven growth or improved processes in previous roles. This will help us see the impact you've made in your past positions.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this opportunity and how your skills make you the perfect fit. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for the role and the company.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chemistree Solutions Limited
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Business Head, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of P&L accountability. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've driven growth in previous roles. Prepare specific examples that showcase your ability to manage budgets and deliver results.
✨Understand the Market Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the UK and European pharmaceutical markets, especially in generics and specialty pharmaceuticals. Be prepared to discuss current trends, competitor activities, and regulatory challenges. Showing that you’re well-informed will impress your interviewers and highlight your strategic thinking.
✨Build Relationships
This role involves engaging with various stakeholders, from wholesalers to pharmacy chains. Think about how you can demonstrate your relationship-building skills. Share stories of how you've successfully negotiated contracts or developed partnerships in the past to illustrate your ability to connect with others.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a high-energy leader, it’s crucial to convey your leadership style during the interview. Prepare to discuss how you inspire and empower teams, especially in a dynamic environment. Use examples that highlight your coaching abilities and how you've navigated change effectively.