Project Manager, New Product Launch

Job Summary

Responsible for the development, tracking and execution of detailed launch plans for all new product launches; new molecules and line extensions from submission to launch.  Product launch responsibilities will focus on all tasks and requirements for the global market related to the Project Managers portfolio.

Provide expertise, direction and support to the key stakeholders throughout the launch process.

Collaborate with counterparts in Sales & Marketing, R&D and Operations, throughout the new product launch process to achieve on time in full successful launches.

Project Manager has the ability to influence the strategy and direction and engage across multiple stakeholders at all levels. PM has the ability to drive outcomes and proactively deal with issues.

Job Responsibilities

Demonstrate highly developed project management skills by utilizing tools, systems, methodologies & software to lead, plan, manage & execute all global launches at the molecule/SKU level across Apotex sites. Execute the Stage Gate process & manage projects in GNPL tools as appropriate to achieve launch readiness.

Serve in a senior role as the leader/primary contact for cross-functional teams across Apotex sites to develop global launch plans at SKU level from Submission to Launch for all markets in assigned portfolio.

Understand time-sensitive nature of new product launches by minimizing/eliminating delays in the critical path. Work with all functional areas to manage project risk by allocating task & decision-making responsibilities to appropriate team members. Ensure all plans & scheduled tasks are on target go achieve launch readiness.

Collaborate with Sales & Marketing & R&D in defining unique requirements for new product launches. Use SAP & input from new product demand planning process & Global Product Management tools/systems to determine & establish launch requirements.

Drive finished packaging SKU commercialization based on market requirements for the 24 month horizon.

Escalate & execute decisions regarding Target Launch Date changes & ensure alignment with R&D based on IP, R&D & Sales & Marketing input & where agreement is not achieved escalate for decision to change TLD. Recommend highly complex/sensitive go/no go decisions based on risk.

Act as an expert resource by using advanced analytical techniques to identify contentious issues & anticipate problems affecting the launch. Jointly develop contingency plans with GPM, Sales & Marketing & Operations & communicate recommended course of action/decision for execution.

Organize & facilitate site based launch meetings. Communicate launch plans & priorities to functional departments on a monthly basis & as changes occur. Track project progress & report exceptions to all relevant areas, including changes, issues & decisions.

Participate in developing, recommending & implementing cross-functional project teams, systems, policies, procedures & measures of performance to facilitate continuous improvement of the launch process.

Measure & report plan vs actual results to management.

Effectively utilize designated systems/applications to support launch success & for communication purposes. Update & maintain all databases required by GNPL.

Liaise with management from across the business to assess customer needs & gather feedback to improve customer service.

Develop tactical plans to align current practices or process changes with goals identified in the corporate strategy.

Assess the resource requirements by reviewing launch history, forecast, sales & production plans & translate into support needs for determining headcount for budget purposes. Recommend changes &/or rotation of staff as required & coordinate sourcing of resources.

Recommend & participate in implementing departmental & cross-functional process improvement initiatives.

Work in a safe manner collaborating as a team member to achieve all outcomes.

Demonstrate Behaviours that exhibit our organizational Values: Collaboration, Courage, Perseverance & Passion.

Ensure personal adherence with all compliance programs including the Global Business Ethics & Compliance Program, Global Quality policies & procedures, Safety & Environment policies, & HR policies.

All other relevant duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

Education

• University degree or equivalent in Business and/or Science related field
• PMP Certification or working towards

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Excellent oral and written English communication skill
• Strong understanding of ERP/SAP processes and master data
• Strong computer skills and knowledge of spread sheet, word processing and project management software
• Strong decision-making, interpersonal, communication and facilitation skills
• Strong understanding of the organizations business processes and supply chain
• Excellent attention to detail
• Excellent project management and leadership skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to relate well to internal and external customer

Experience

• 3 to 5 years’ experience in pharmaceutical or consumer packaged goods product launch process
• 3 to 5 years’ experience in project lead and or product launch role in pharmaceutical environment