The Business Unit Manager (BUM) – Pharmacy Line is responsible for developing, managing, and growing the pharmacy business unit by achieving sales and profitability targets, developing effective marketing strategies, managing the sales team, strengthening relationships with pharmacies and key customers, and ensuring successful execution of commercial plans.
The role focuses on maximizing product performance, increasing market share, expanding distribution coverage, and building a strong competitive position in the pharmaceutical market.
- Key responsibilitiesA. Business strategy and planning* Develop the annual business plan and commercial strategy for the Pharmacy Line.
* Set sales targets, growth objectives, and market share goals.
* Identify new business opportunities and potential market segments.
* Analyze market trends, competitors, pricing, and customer needs.
* Develop short-term and long-term growth strategies.
* Prepare annual budgets and monitor business unit performance.
B. Sales management
- * Lead and manage the pharmacy sales team.
- Set individual and team sales targets.
- Monitor sales performance and ensure achievement of KPIs.
- Develop strategies to increase pharmacy penetration and product availability.
- Conduct regular field visits with sales representatives.
- Build strong relationships with pharmacy chains, independent pharmacies, and wholesalers.
- Monitor sales execution and implement corrective actions when needed.
C. Marketing and product management
- * Develop marketing plans and promotional campaigns for the pharmacy portfolio.
- Manage product positioning and brand development.
- Coordinate with the marketing team on promotional materials and activities.
- Identify opportunities for new product launches.
- Monitor product performance throughout the product life cycle.
- Ensure promotional activities comply with pharmaceutical regulations and company policies.
D. Financial and business performance
- * Manage the business unit budget and operating expenses.
- Monitor sales, gross profit, profitability, and return on investment.
- Analyze sales forecasts and stock requirements.
- Coordinate with supply chain to ensure product availability.
- Monitor inventory levels and minimize expiry and stock shortages.
- Prepare monthly and quarterly business performance reports.
E. Team leadership and development
- * Recruit, train, coach, and develop the pharmacy sales team.
- Conduct performance evaluations.
- Establish clear KPIs and accountability.
- Motivate the team and improve productivity.
- Identify training needs and implement development plans.
F. Cross-functional coordination
- * Work closely with Medical Affairs, Regulatory Affairs, Supply Chain, Finance, and Sales Force Effectiveness (SFE).
- Ensure alignment between commercial strategy and operational capabilities.
- Coordinate product availability, demand forecasting, and stock planning.
- Collaborate with the medical team on scientific and educational initiatives.
- Maintain strong relationships with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) and relevant healthcare stakeholders.
These responsibilities closely reflect Pioneer Pharma's published Business Unit Manager vacancy.
- Qualifications and experience* Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy.
* Minimum 3–5 years of experience in a similar pharmaceutical management position.
* Strong background in pharmaceutical sales and marketing.
* Proven experience in managing sales teams and achieving business targets.
* Good understanding of the Iraqi pharmaceutical market and pharmacy channel.
* Experience in business planning, budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
* Strong negotiation, communication, and leadership skills.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
* Excellent analytical and strategic thinking abilities.