Franchise Head

The Franchise Head will lead the execution of AstraZeneca Pakistan’s business strategy, managing distributors and collaborating with local and regional stakeholders under the Commercial Operations Gulf and Country Director Pakistan. This role demands a blend of strategic business planning and operational expertise to ensure effective tactical implementation and compliance with legal entity requirements. The incumbent will work closely with local distributors and leverage AstraZeneca’s matrix organization to achieve performance objectives aligned with business KPIs. A strong focus on driving operational excellence, identifying risks, and ensuring audit readiness through cross-functional collaboration is essential.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead all franchise commercial activities across Pakistan, including sales strategy and execution with a patient-centric approach.
- Implement localized franchise strategies aligned with global directives, covering brand plans, launch plans, performance reviews, and portfolio integration.
- Identify and capitalize on new brand, existing brand, and trade opportunities, utilizing market data to optimize product strategies.
- Own forecasting and P&L delivery by setting assumptions, tracking market trends, and managing resources and budgets effectively.
- Drive brand plan execution and KPIs through cross-functional teamwork, ensuring timely monitoring and reporting in accordance with AstraZeneca standards.
- Develop communication and campaign materials, oversee external agencies, and secure necessary approvals.
- Lead, coach, and mentor direct reports and matrix teams to foster high performance, development, and collaboration.
- Build and maintain relationships with Key External Experts (KEEs) in partnership with Medical and senior leadership; support government affairs and market access initiatives to facilitate policy shaping and portfolio growth.
- Engage with global and regional teams to share best practices and ensure quality deliverables.
- Coordinate and own launch excellence processes for new assets and indications.
- Collaborate with Business Unit Directors to develop long-term strategic plans, including capability assessments and synergy execution.
- Proactively identify business challenges and opportunities, ensuring aligned execution across markets and functions.
- Oversee the business planning cycle, ensuring alignment across therapeutic areas and brands.
- Control and monitor costs to support operational plans within budget.
- Lead initiatives to accelerate patient identification, referral, and maintenance across franchises.
- Manage projects and vendors to address business opportunities and challenges.
- Utilize advanced analytical and statistical methods to generate insights that influence sales and marketing strategies.
- Manage distributor relationships and coordinate all activities under the Distributor Management Framework.
- Uphold high ethical standards and ensure compliance with AstraZeneca’s Code of Conduct, policies, local laws, and marketing procedures.
- Ensure timely reporting of health, environment, wellbeing incidents, adverse events, and conflicts of interest as per procedures.

Required Qualifications

- Over 10 years of experience working in pharmaceutical multinational companies, with a proven track record in leading cross-functional projects.
- Demonstrated success in leading business operations with strong marketing expertise in specialty care.
- Strong project management, decision-making, and multitasking skills.
- Experience with controls and governance within a commercial organization.
- Strategic thinker with an entrepreneurial mindset.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

- Experience at regional or global levels.
- Proficiency in leveraging digital technologies to deliver business value.
- Background in oncology.
- Advanced degree such as MBA or Medicine.
- Experience driving sales through third-party channels.
- Strong financial acumen.

AstraZeneca is committed to diversity, equality, and inclusion, fostering a workplace that values a wide range of perspectives and skills. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and adhere to all relevant laws regarding non-discrimination, work authorization, and employment eligibility.

Date Posted: 29 September 2026
Closing Date: 07 October 2026