Our client, a leading international biopharmaceutical company focused on rare diseases, is seeking an Associate Director, Marketing to lead strategic initiatives in its Canadian portfolio.
About the Organization
Our client specializes in innovative therapies that address critical unmet needs for patients living with rare and debilitating conditions. The team combines expertise from research, healthcare, industry, and academia, working collaboratively to transform patient care.
They foster an inclusive, flexible, and growth-oriented work environment that prioritizes teamwork, personal development, and meaningful impact on patients’ lives.
About the Role
This is a high-visibility leadership role overseeing the marketing and commercial strategy for a key product in Canada. The Associate Director will drive pre-launch and launch activities, build brand recognition, and implement data-driven omnichannel campaigns that empower the sales organization and deliver strong business results.
A key focus of this role will be to expand the organization’s digital capabilities while leading the successful launch of a major therapy in the Canadian market. Over time, the role may evolve as the portfolio and organizational needs grow.
Key Responsibilities
Product Launch Leadership
- Lead the go-to-market and commercial strategy for a flagship product to ensure a successful launch and sustained adoption.
- Drive growth by achieving sales and revenue objectives.
- Craft a tailored marketing strategy that reflects the unique dynamics of the Canadian healthcare environment.
Omnichannel & Digital Marketing
- Design and execute integrated marketing campaigns leveraging digital platforms, social media, and analytics to optimize engagement and performance.
- Apply data-driven insights to maximize return on investment and customer impact.
Brand Strategy & Planning
- Lead the development of the Brand Plan, ensuring alignment with the overall corporate strategy and the product’s value proposition.
- Manage promotional and brand budgets to efficiently allocate resources for strategic objectives.
Sales Enablement
- Partner with the sales team to support training, providing tools and materials to effectively communicate the product’s value.
- Contribute to sales forecasts and market analyses.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with Medical Affairs, Market Access, and other internal partners to align on strategies that address local market challenges and opportunities.
- Adjust strategies and tactics based on cross-functional feedback and evolving market needs.
Vendor & Stakeholder Management
- Oversee external agencies and vendors to ensure timely, high-quality delivery of marketing initiatives.
- Translate scientific and clinical data into actionable strategies, messaging, and promotional plans.
- Monitor market trends, competitive activities, and barriers to identify opportunities for growth and differentiation.
Leadership & Communication
- Motivate internal teams and inspire cross-functional partners to achieve commercial goals.
- Present strategy, performance, and progress updates to senior leadership and other stakeholders.
Qualifications
- Minimum 5+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, including at least 3 years in marketing roles.
- Bachelor’s degree (B.Com, BA/BS); a Master’s or advanced scientific degree is a strong asset.
- Proven expertise in product launches, ideally within the rare disease or specialty care space.
- Nephrology experience is an advantage.
- Strong track record in digital and omnichannel marketing, including campaign development, execution, and performance optimization.
- Familiarity with CRM, marketing automation, and analytics platforms.
- Knowledge of Canadian compliance, regulatory, and reimbursement frameworks.
- Experience in sales, market research, or sales training is considered an asset.
- Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills with the ability to engage senior leadership and external stakeholders.
- Skilled in cross-functional leadership, project management, and vendor coordination.
- Results-driven, innovative mindset with high emotional intelligence and business acumen.
- Ability to inspire and foster accountability in teams.
- Willingness to travel up to 50%.
Why Join
- Emphasis on work–life balance and flexibility.
- A collaborative, team-oriented environment with opportunities for growth.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Competitive compensation and benefits package.
- The opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of patients with rare diseases.