The Medicine Trading Lead is responsible for leading all pharmaceutical trading operations for the company’s new retail pharmacy chain in Vietnam. This role oversees product portfolio strategy, supplier management, pricing, category performance, regulatory compliance, and commercial negotiations. The ideal candidate brings extensive experience from major pharmacy chains in Vietnam and a strong network in the pharmaceutical distribution ecosystem.
2. Key Responsibilities
A. Trading & Category Management
Build and manage the overall medicine trading strategy for both ethical (ETC) and over-the-counter (OTC) portfolios.
Develop category strategies for key therapeutic groups, focusing on assortment optimization, profitability, and customer demand trends.
Lead planning for SKU selection, product lifecycle management, and rationalization of slow-moving or low-margin items.
Implement competitive pricing strategies aligned with market benchmarks and company margin targets.
B. Supplier & Partner Management
Establish and maintain strong relationships with manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, and import partners.
Lead commercial negotiations for purchase prices, trading terms, rebates, and annual contracts.
Evaluate and onboard new suppliers to expand product variety and improve cost efficiency.
Manage vendor performance, ensuring compliance with quality, delivery timelines, and service agreements.
C. Procurement Operations
Oversee end-to-end procurement processes including forecasting, ordering, inventory control, and stock allocation across pharmacy stores and warehouses.
Work closely with Supply Chain, Finance, and Retail Operations to ensure optimal stock levels and minimize OOS/overstock.
Ensure procurement processes follow GDP (Good Distribution Practice) and local regulations.
D. Market Intelligence & Business Development
Monitor industry trends, competitive pricing, and regulatory updates in Vietnam’s pharmaceutical landscape.
Identify opportunities to introduce exclusive imports, private label products, or strategic partnerships to strengthen competitive advantage.
Support feasibility assessments for expansion into adjacent categories (health supplements, medical devices, personal care).
E. Regulatory Compliance
Ensure all trading activities fully comply with the Law on Pharmacy, MOH regulations, import regulations, and product registration requirements.
Collaborate with QA/RA teams to ensure product documentation and licensing are properly maintained.
F. Leadership & People Management
Build and lead a high-performing Trading & Category team.
Provide coaching, KPIs, and development plans for team members.
Promote strong collaboration with Retail, Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance, and the Singapore HQ.
Job Requirement
Qualifications & Requirements
Professional Experience
Minimum 7–10 years of experience in pharmaceutical trading, category management, or procurement.
At least 5 years in leadership roles in top-tier pharmacy chains in Vietnam (e.g., Pharmacity, Long Châu, An Khang) or pharmaceutical distributors.
Strong network with local and international suppliers, manufacturers, and importers.
Proven track record in negotiation, cost optimization, and supplier relationship management.
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy, Medicine, Business Administration, or related fields.
A practicing pharmacist license is a strong advantage.
Skills & Competencies
Deep understanding of Vietnam’s pharmaceutical regulations, pricing structures, and market dynamics.
Strong commercial acumen and analytical skills.
Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, start-up environment with regional reporting lines.
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