Confidential client: an established manufacturer of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients, expanding its commercial reach across East Asia.

Position snapshot

Reports to: Head of Sales
Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka
Market: China and South Korea
Industry: API manufacturing (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients)
Travel: extensive travel across the region

The role

The company is looking for a commercial leader to run Sales and Business Development across China and South Korea, covering both existing customers and new business. The role spans strategic planning, customer engagement, market analysis and the successful introduction of new products, particularly APIs. It calls for a deep understanding of the pharmaceutical value chain and the regulatory landscape, and close working with R&D and manufacturing teams.

What you will own

1. Strategic sales planning

Develop and deliver the annual sales budget and strategy for China and South Korea, aligned to overall business goals
Track performance metrics and ensure regional revenue and profitability targets are met

2. Business development

Identify and develop new business with existing and prospective customers
Evaluate new product pipelines and market demand to drive API launches

3. Customer relationships

Build and nurture long term relationships with key clients
Drive customer retention and grow share of wallet across accounts

4. Market analysis and product strategy

Analyse IMS data, competitive pricing, regulatory frameworks and patent landscapes to guide market entry and positioning
Propose and lead new product introductions based on unmet market needs

5. Cross functional coordination

Work with R&D and manufacturing so product development matches market requirements
Ensure timely support for product development, technology transfers and commercial launches

6. Team leadership

Mentor and guide junior members of the Sales and BD team and build a high performance, customer centric culture

Who we are looking for

12+ years of experience in Sales and Business Development
In depth understanding of API market dynamics in China and South Korea
Exposure to the regulatory and patent landscapes in China and South Korea
Demonstrated success in new product development and market penetration
Proven ability to manage senior level client relationships
Strong analytical and strategic thinking, with a problem solving mindset and an eye for detail
Excellent interpersonal, negotiation and communication skills
Willingness to travel extensively across the region

All applications are handled in confidence by a Dedicated HR Services partner. The client is named to shortlisted candidates only.

Manager, API Sales and Business Development (China and South Korea)