Lead market entry and build a high-performing CRO operation from the ground up Own strategy, business development and operational delivery in Japan High profile Tokyo-based role | Competitive remuneration package About the Organisation Healthcare Professionals Group (HPG) is partnering with a fast-growing global CRO entering its next phase of APAC expansion. With an accelerated track record of scaling across multiple regions and therapeutic areas, the organisation is establishing dedicated operations in Japan to better support sponsors locally and globally. About the Opportunity This newly created leadership role will suit a senior clinical operations executive who combines commercial drive with hands-on delivery experience. Reporting to the Regional Director, you will set the strategy for Japan, win and grow sponsor relationships, and stand up the local operating model—initially focusing on hiring/onboarding CRAs and core functions while building long-term capability and governance. Scope includes end-to-end clinical operations oversight, vendor/CRO management, inspection readiness, and KPI delivery typical of senior ops leadership in CRO environments. Duties Establish Japan operations: organisational design, SOPs, systems, and governance Drive business development: engage sponsors, shape proposals, and secure new programs Build and lead the local team (initially CRAs, then broader clinical and enabling functions) Provide country-level clinical operations leadership across start-up to close-out, quality, timelines and budgets Oversee vendor performance, site strategy, and TMF/inspection readiness in line with global standards Represent the country in regional leadership forums; report performance, risks and mitigations Skills and Experience Senior-level CRO background is essential; pharma experience welcomed if significant earlier CRO leadership is evident Proven Japan country/region clinical operations leadership with measurable KPI delivery and audit readiness ownership Strong business development track record with sponsor engagement at executive level Native Japanese language capability with fluent English Entrepreneurial, hands-on leader able to flex between strategy and execution in a build phase Tokyo-based; deep knowledge of the Japan clinical research ecosystem Benefits Pivotal country leadership mandate with significant impact on APAC growth Opportunity to build a modern, scalable operating model and team Competitive remuneration, subject to experience and market alignment Backing from an experienced regional/global leadership group How to Apply To explore this opportunity in confidence, please contact: Adrian McConchie, Director, HPG | amcconchie@hpgconnect.com | +61 488 807 351 Rohan Lallbeeharry, Senior Recruitment Consultant, HPG | rlallbeeharry@hpgconnect.com | +61 485 860 660
About the company Our client is one of Australia's fastest growing bio-pharmaceutical companies. One that develops, manufactures and markets products to treat and prevent serious human medical conditions. With expanding operations on every continent, our client is rapidly becoming recognised for a progressive approach, flexible business model and exceptional people. About the opportunity Reporting into the senior leadership team, the Commercial Business Manager will be responsible for setting and executing the national commercial strategy across Australia’s retail pharmacy, GP and wholesale channels. This leadership role plays a critical part in driving business growth through the development of high-impact partnerships with pharmacy banner groups, corporate GP networks and other key stakeholders. You will lead a team of Channel Managers, while shaping integrated plans to support both vaccines and pharmaceutical product portfolios. Collaborating cross-functionally, you will oversee the end-to-end execution of commercial initiatives to ensure optimal in-market success. Leveraging deep customer insights, market analytics and competitor intelligence, you will also support in identifying emerging opportunities across traditional, digital and direct-to-patient models. The role is based in Melbourne. Skills and Experience Required Proven commercial c-suite level experience across Australia’s pharmacy banner and GP channels Proven ability to develop and execute channel strategies across pharmacy, wholesale and primary care In-depth business-to-business commercial negotiation experience In-depth understanding of retail pharmacy operations, stakeholders, and flow Strong leadership skills, with experience managing a national account team High-level communication, collaboration, and stakeholder engagement skills Strong data analytics and omnichannel experience Degree in science, medicine, pharmacy, or nursing; postgraduate business qualifications preferred Why this opportunity is right for you Shape Australia’s retail pharmacy and GP channel presence for a well-established portfolio Lead national commercial strategy across Australia in a high-impact leadership role Engage directly with key industry bodies, wholesalers and corporate customers Join a respected global organisation with a strong local presence and focus on continuous improvement Contribute to the growth of a dynamic, purpose-driven company focused on public health NB: Australian working rights required. Sponsorship is not on offer. How to Apply Click apply or contact Natalia Fiocca, Divisional Manager - Sales, Marketing & Analytics on 0488 807 443 for a confidential discussion. About us Healthcare Professionals Group recruits all positions: executive, permanent, contracting/temp, at all levels, across all areas of healthcare - Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology, Medical Technology and Clinical Care. Commercial Recruitment - Marketing, Sales, Analytics, Clinical Support & Education, Government and External Affairs. Medical Affairs & Life Sciences Recruitment - Clinical Research, Market Access, Medical Affairs, Pharmacovigilance, Quality, Data Management, Regulatory Affairs, Scientific. Business Operations & Infrastructure Recruitment - Administration, Customer Service, Engineering, Finance, Human Resources, IT, L&D, Legal, Manufacturing, Operations, Supply Chain, Warehouse. Clinical Care Recruitment - Allied Health, Aged Care, General Practice, Medical Imaging, Medical Management, Medical Specialties, Nursing. For more job opportunities, visit www.hpgconnect.com
