Area Sales Manager - Christchurch - Ortho in Coleford

A global medical technology organisation is entering the orthopaedic market in Australia & New Zealand and is seeking an experienced commercial professional to lead its launch in New Zealand. With no existing local team, this is an opportunity to build the business from the ground up and act as the company’s primary representative in the country. The role is based in Christchurch, with flexibility and significant autonomy. Due to the absence of a legal entity in New Zealand, the position will operate through an independent contractor model or Employer of Record arrangement.

The Opportunity

This is a hands‑on, field‑based role covering orthopaedic reconstruction with a strong focus on Hip and Knee implants. You will take responsibility for sales execution, distributor management, business development, and market intelligence while establishing a sustainable long‑term commercial presence. Support and resources will be provided by regional leadership, but day‑to‑day commercial ownership will sit fully with you. This is an ideal opportunity for someone motivated by growth, autonomy, and building a business from zero.

Key Responsibilities

• Sales & Territory Management
  • Drive commercial activity for Hip and Knee reconstruction solutions across the assigned region.
  • Manage day‑to‑day field sales, case support and surgeon engagement activities.
  • Achieve business growth and revenue goals aligned with the annual plan.
  • Ensure timely coordination of orders, product availability, and customer needs.
  • Oversee field‑based clinical and marketing initiatives to support surgeon adoption.
• Business Operations
  • Build strong commercial relationships with hospital finance departments to support payment processes.
  • Collaborate with regional leadership on pricing strategies and market positioning.
  • Establish distribution agreements with appropriate volume expectations and commercial terms.
  • Develop understanding of regional reimbursement and insurance pathways.
  • Travel outside your territory as required for business and training purposes.
• Distributor & Channel Development
  • Identify, engage, and manage distributors, sub‑distributors and independent agents.
  • Support partners with product knowledge, planning, and operational execution.
  • Maintain visibility over stock levels and ensure reliable, timely supply through the distribution network.
• Hospital & Surgeon Engagement
  • Meet regularly with surgeons, procurement teams, and operating theatre staff to introduce solutions, demonstrate technology, and support purchase discussions.
  • Present clinical data, training materials, and product insights to key decision‑makers.
  • Participate in value discussions, product evaluations and long‑term partnership planning.
• Market Insight & Intelligence
  • Conduct ongoing market mapping and gather real‑time insights on competitors, pricing trends, usage data and growth opportunities.
  • Maintain structured records of surgeon profiles, hospital dynamics, procedural volumes and purchasing behaviours.
  • Monitor updates on tenders, upcoming bids and changes in procurement models.
• Compliance & Governance
  • Uphold high ethical standards in all business interactions.
  • Ensure local execution of activities aligns with company policies and country regulations.
  • Provide periodic product updates to hospitals in line with regulatory expectations.

Who They’re Looking For

• Minimum of three years’ experience in Hip and Knee reconstruction sales (specifically implants).
• Recent, up‑to‑date involvement in the orthopaedic theatre environment.
• Strong commercial instincts with the ability to operate independently.
• Experience building a territory, developing distribution channels, and growing surgeon relationships.
• Highly organised, adaptable, and comfortable with a start‑up style environment.

The Planet Group of Companies is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.