Director, Trade Operations

Introduction to role:

As the Director, Trade Operations, you'll be at the forefront of implementing and managing trade and channel strategies for both inline and pipeline products. This pivotal role involves leading channel implementation, executing channel models, overseeing operational excellence, and ensuring data integrity and analytics support. You'll collaborate across teams to drive successful product launches, improve processes, and maintain compliance with high standards of data quality. Are you up for the challenge?

Accountabilities:

• Develop and manage processes supporting existing and new products channel models, including scorecards and governance routines (QBRs/MBRs) to monitor KPIs such as fill rates, order accuracy, days-on-hand, backorders, cold chain performance, and data quality.
• Lead workstreams for new product launches, ensuring operational readiness and cross-functional alignment.
• Data & Analytics: Own the end-to-end channel data strategy, including infrastructure for data ingestion/flow, aggregation, and quality measurement; lead data reporting and insights capabilities (including specialty distributor, specialty pharmacy and other relevant data feeds).
• Forecasting & Inventory Optimization: Partner with Supply Chain and Finance to set inventory targets, safety stock, allocation rules, and fair-share policies; coordinate demand signals with S&OP; manage launch inventory staging and new SKU introductions.
• Oversee return goods policies, REMS compliance, and specialty pharmacy direct ordering processes.
• Drive continuous improvement and automation initiatives to enhance channel operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (e.g., Supply Chain, Finance, Commercial, IT) to align channel operations with broader business objectives.
• Support Trade & Distribution strategy team in the development of trade strategies for Alexion's product portfolio (inline and pipeline).
• Support and provide input in the development and implementation of trade agreements with channel providers, including service frameworks, data workflows, and performance metrics.
• Identify and execute operational enhancements across the channel network.

Essential Skills/Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field of study
• 4-7 years of experience in trade operations, project management, channel management, or supply chain within the pharmaceutical or healthcare industry.
• Demonstrated understanding of the complexities of trade/specialty pharmacy channels
• Proven track record in developing and executing channel strategies, managing complex projects, and leading cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical skills with experience in developing channel data strategy, KPI development, and operational reporting.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to effectively communicate complex business challenges and data-driven recommendations to senior leaders
• Ability to complete quantitative and qualitative analyses of complex strategic initiatives
• Experience with process improvement methodologies and automation preferred.
• High level of expertise utilizing Microsoft suite (PowerPoint, Excel, Word, Outlook, etc.)
• Ability to work independently
• Up to 30% travel as required.
• The duties of this role are generally conducted in an office environment. As is typical of an office-based role, employees must be able, with or without an accommodation to use a computer; engage in communications via phone, video, and electronic messaging; problem solve; engage in complex and non-linear thought, analysis, and dialogue; collaborate with others; maintain general availability during standard business hours

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• MBA, MPH, or other advanced degree

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $182,360.00 - 273,540.00 USD. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program. Benefits offered include a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

Why AstraZeneca?

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

At AstraZeneca's Alexion division, you'll find a culture driven by patient needs where innovation thrives. Here diversity is valued and inclusion is championed so that groundbreaking ideas can emerge from anywhere. We celebrate each other's successes while maintaining kindness as a core value alongside our ambition. Our commitment extends beyond our work as we take pride in giving back to the communities we serve.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now to join our team!

Date Posted

Closing Date

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.