An established pharmaceutical business is seeking a Head of Pharmacy to lead its commercial engagement across the UK pharmacy sector. This senior role carries responsibility for shaping pharmacy strategy, managing key accounts, and driving sustainable growth across generic, branded generic and OTC portfolios.
The position sits at the intersection of commercial leadership, pharmacy relationships, and market access, requiring a deep understanding of the UK pharmacy landscape, NHS structures, pricing dynamics, and supply considerations.
The successful candidate will have great leadership and mentoring experience. Knowledge and experience within CMO would be desirable but not essential. There is scope to develop and grow within the business to manage and lead other business units.
Key Responsibilities
Pharmacy Commercial Strategy
* Develop and execute a UK pharmacy strategy across multiple, independent, symbol group and buying group customers.
* Set clear commercial priorities, revenue targets and KPIs for pharmacy channels.
* Ensure pricing, positioning and promotional activity reflect market conditions and customer needs.
Key Account Management
* Lead senior relationships with pharmacy multiples, buying groups and key independent customers.
* Negotiate listings, rebates, supply agreements, and promotional activity.
* Maintain long-term, trust-based partnerships focused on reliability, value and compliance.
OTC & Consumer Health (Pharmacy-Focused)
* Support growth of OTC and consumer health products within pharmacy and retail environments.
* Collaborate on category management, merchandising initiatives and seasonal campaigns.
Wholesalers & Distribution
* Manage commercial relationships with national and shortline wholesalers.
* Negotiate pricing, service levels and stock availability to support pharmacy customers.
Commercial Execution & Supply Alignment
* Work closely with Supply Chain and Operations to ensure continuity of supply in a highly competitive and price-sensitive market.
* Respond to UK-specific market challenges including shortages, concessions and tariff changes.
Compliance & Governance
* Ensure all commercial activity aligns with MHRA, ABPI, PAGB, NHS procurement guidance, competition law and the UK Bribery Act.
* Promote a culture of ethical, compliant engagement across the pharmacy-facing commercial team.
Financial & Performance Management
* Lead pharmacy pricing strategy and manage profitability at national and account level.
* Oversee commercial budgets, promotional spend and margin performance.
* Provide clear reporting and insight to senior leadership.
Leadership & Collaboration
* Lead, coach and develop a high-performing commercial team.
* Collaborate closely with Regulatory, Medical, Quality, Finance and Supply Chain functions to deliver aligned outcomes.
Experience & Background
Essential
* Extensive experience within UK pharmaceuticals, with a strong focus on pharmacy channels.
* Proven track record managing commercial relationships with pharmacy multiples, buying groups and wholesalers.
* Deep understanding of UK pharmacy economics, drug tariff dynamics and supply considerations.
* Strong commercial judgement, negotiation capability, and financial acumen.
* NHS tendering experience.
* Experience operating in highly regulated environments.
* Strong leadership and mentoring experience within a matrix or cross-functional organisation.
Education
* Degree in Pharmacy, Life Sciences, Business or a related discipline.