Distribution Strategy Associate Director - Pain

Job Description

Vertex currently operates at the forefront of rare disease scientific innovation and has successfully developed and commercialized multiple breakthrough medicines for Cystic Fibrosis (CF), Sickle Cell Disease, Transfusion-Dependent Beta Thalassemia and Acute Pain. In addition to clinical development programs in CF, Vertex has more than a dozen ongoing research programs focused on the underlying mechanisms of other serious diseases including programs in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy, Type 1 Diabetes, IgA Nephropathy (IgAN), APOL-1 Mediated Kidney Disease, and Muscular Dystrophy, among others.

Associate Director Trade and Distribution Strategy

Is accountable for the design, implementation and evolution of the channel distribution strategy for the pain portfolio. This individual will lead strategic planning considering country-specific regulations and policies, program sustainability, strategic alliances, patient and customer access, data, class of trade and setting of care. They will inform distribution service agreement design to support maximum access and distribution efficiency.

The ideal candidate combines deep pharmaceutical channel distribution expertise with strategic acumen, cross-functional leadership and the ability to navigate complex trade and emerging therapy models.

Key Duties and Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the tactical execution of design planning, informing the development of scalable, effective distribution strategies to serve short and long-term expectations while considering financial impacts and patient/customer experience.
• Collaborate and drive alignment across key stakeholders on distribution and channel strategy development; apply subject matter expertise to maximize patient access and achieve corporate goals.
• Partner with the Trade and Distribution account team and functional business partners to support Vertex's understanding of distribution capabilities, market expertise and differentiation.
• Produce business cases and recommendations on channel design, limited distribution and open network designs, strategic alliances (third party logistics providers, specialty pharmacy, wholesaler, specialty distributor, channel data aggregators).
• Support in identifying and defining timely evolution of current Vertex distribution programs with a focus on new product launch, risk mitigation, changes in market dynamics, competition, and/or regulatory and legislative changes.
• Maintain a deep understanding of the distribution channel; understand pharmacy and hospital capabilities and the competitive marketplace to ensure Vertex maintains an industry leading approach.
• Exercise sound judgment in all activities to ensure integrity and compliance with company policies. Promote Vertex core values, leading by example, developing and fostering exceptional collaboration and promoting enterprise thinking to drive breakthrough results.

Knowledge and Skills

• Current knowledge of drug distribution channels including retail distribution and digital pharmacy.
• Proven track record of meeting or exceeding objectives & goals, both as an individual and as part of a team.
• Proven ability to develop and lead strategic initiatives and projects both internally and with external consultant support.
• Relevant experience with distribution networks, new product launches, trade processes, and understanding of pharmaceutical supply chain.
• Demonstrated understanding of the US commercial and government healthcare and reimbursement environment, including product and fund flow, patient support and government programs.
• Excellent communication skills with experience presenting to customers and internal leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully navigate cross-functional teams, influencing without direct authority, with the interpersonal skills to foster collaboration and succeed in a highly matrixed environment.
• Ability to perform in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple priorities simultaneously, and work effectively across cross-functional teams.
• Excellent analytical skills with solid understanding of trade channel data.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in relevant field, master's degree preferred.
• Specialty/Biotech industry experience with at least 5+ years in Commercial Market Access and/or Retail Trade and Distribution.
• Experience with GPOs and IDN classes of trade.

Location

• HQ or Hybrid Schedule (3 days a week in HQ).
• Ability and willingness to travel up to 20% of the time.

Pay Range

$148,000 - $222,000

Flex Designation

Hybrid-Eligible or On-Site Eligible.

EEO Statement

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

If an applicant requires an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact the recruiter or hiring manager, or Talent Acquisition at