UK Business Head. Exciting new opportunity working for an established company in Generics and Speciality Pharmaceuticals
Role: UK Business Head - Sales, Marketing and Business Development
Therapy Area: Generics and Speciality Pharmaceuticals
Package: Highly competitive package
Location: Hybrid - Hampshire Office/Home based
This is a permanent headcount role
Role type: Country Director, Business Head, Business Unit Director, Business Development Director, Commercial Director
Our client is seeking a dynamic Business Head to lead its operations across the UK and Western Europe. This position carries full P&L accountability and will oversee sales, marketing, business development, and supply chain functions. The role will focus on building a strong generics and specialty pharmaceutical business, delivering year-on-year growth (organic and through in-licensing), and ensuring compliance with UK and European regulations.
Key Responsibilities:
* Act as the overall representative of the company in the UK, managing commercial, legal, reputational, and administrative aspects.
* Establish and execute robust front-end strategies to market, sell and distribute OTC, pharmacy, prescription, and CE-marked products across both B2C and B2B channels.
* Engage with wholesalers, pharmacy chains, supermarkets, and other national-level partners to drive sales.
* Pursue contract manufacturing (CMO) opportunities with UK MA holders for supply from accredited Indian plants.
* Own and deliver the National Business Plan including target setting, forecasting, resource allocation, and reporting.
* Conduct regular customer and field visits; engage CCGs, negotiate NHS tenders, and secure long-term supply contracts.
* Monitor NHS strategies, market dynamics, and competitor activity to drive innovative, insight-led business development.
* Recommend and shape future product lines through review of product specifications, requirements, and new product opportunities.
* Develop marketing and advertising strategies for OTC products, including promotional campaigns and retail support to maximise reach and frequency of purchase.
* Service existing accounts and establish new ones, building strong long-term relationships.
* Drive business results including top-line growth, gross contribution/EBITDA targets, and full P&L delivery.
* Ensure brand development and sustainable market share growth while building a demand-led business.
* Collaborate with corporate teams in India on new business strategies and untapped opportunities across the region.
* Manage supply chain efficiency to eliminate gaps between demand and supply.
* Prepare and present management reports on business performance and market outlook to senior leadership.
* Ensure compliance with local regulations and maintain the highest ethical and professional standards.
About the Client
Our client is a fully integrated pharmaceutical company, established in 1936 and recognised as a global leader in Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) and Ophthalmics. With world-class manufacturing facilities and a portfolio of 300+ products, the company serves patients in over 50 countries. Innovation, quality, and expanding access to healthcare are at the heart of its mission.
The person / experience
* 10 plus years of senior-level sales and business development experience in UK/European pharma (branded and generics).
* Proven track record in general management, scaling businesses, and delivering sustainable growth.
* Strong knowledge of UK & European pharma markets, regulations, and commercial opportunities.
* High-energy, results-driven leader with strong strategic and execution skills.
* Excellent communicator and negotiator, able to influence at senior levels.
* Analytical, resourceful, and commercially astute, with the ability to define winning business models.
* Strong people leader who can inspire, coach, and empower teams.
* Resilient, adaptable, and comfortable navigating change in a dynamic environment.
* Must be based within 90 minutes of Southampton, with flexibility for office and field work.
* Advantage, not essential): eligibility to act as Deputy Responsible Person.
To Apply
If you feel you have the experience and credentials to take on this senior leadership role, please forward a copy of your CV in confidence.
Alternatively, contact the specialist recruitment team at Chemistree Solutions Ltd on 0115 937 3515 to arrange a discreet, initial conversation.
Chemistree Solutions is a trusted recruitment partner to the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry, with a strong track record of placing senior leaders across the UK and Europe.