Distribution Manager- External Supply & Manufacturing (ESM)

Opening date – 08/08/2022

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialisation of prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies.

With constant new products and launches, there’s never been a better time to join ESM and craft our future with a big contribution to life-changing medicines.

The Distribution Manager is responsible for leading a diverse team of Distribution Liaison Partners and Distribution Coordinators within ESM, mainly based in the UK, US or Sweden (team roles and location could vary and cover other global locations). The supplier base that the teams work with are contract manufacturers supplying Raw Materials, APIs/Drug Substance, Devices and Formulated and Packed products.

You will be responsible for ensuring fit for purpose resources from the team are deployed to meet the needs of two main processes we operate within ESM - i) Supply to Customer ii) Establish New Supply to Customer. The Distribution Manager will ensure that team members are trained according to the needs of the Supply Chains they support and that the group operates according to robust processes, in line with compliance requirements (GMP and financial). Collaborates closely with the Global Logistics Function and actively participates in the Global Logistics Network with other internal supply sites.

The Distribution Manager will work in close collaboration with other ESM External Operations teams who are globally based, taking an active part in driving the development of the Supply Optimisation function, leading initiatives as assigned. The work is carried out in a global environment, with strong focus on cross-functional collaboration with other roles and functions e.g. Finance, QA, Procurement.

Key tasks include (but are not limited to):

• Line management of the team including performance management, mentor and recruitment activities
• Ensure that the team has the capability and flexibility to support the business
• Maintain, develop and apply distribution processes in line with AZ global business processes
• Act as the key interface between Global Logistics & ESM
• Owning the ESM Freight Budget process
• Project manage change projects when needed
• Build a lean culture of collaboration, continuous improvement and high performance
• Active contribution to the development of Supply Optimisation Function direction and delivery of team projects and plans as a key member of the Supply optimisation Leadership Team

The position will also require applicants to display the core professional capabilities for the role:

E2E supply chain principles, lean tools, Distribution planning, fiscal awareness, Influencing, change & enablement, flexibility/adaptability & conceptual thinking.

Essentials:

• Education requirements: a BS degree or equivalent in Business, Logistics, Sciences or Engineering is preferred, equivalent experience will be taken in to account
• Significant understanding of managing contract logistics, with external 3rd party providers, across a global manufacturing network.
• Experienced with International multi-modal Freight Forwarding, working with Customs brokers, Trade regulations & freight incoterms.
• Significant supply chain understanding and knowledge.
• Broad understanding of API, formulated product and finished pack supply chains and manufacturing.
• Experience of managing complexity and high levels of change.
• Issue leadership skills.
• Compliance awareness (SOX, Quality, Product security, etc).
• Good communication skills, should be fluent in spoken and written English.

Desirable:

• Experience in leading cross functional and cross-cultural teams.
• Line management experience with a track record of coaching and developing people.
• Freight tendering & contractual setup
• Standardizing & automating processes
• SAP ERP (MRP) knowledge
• Experience in leading cross cultural, global and cross functional teams
• Experience of managing complexity
• Experienced in compiling complex budgets, working to stringent deadlines.
• Proficient in using key Lean Tools: VSM, PPS

Are you already imagining yourself joining our team? Good, because we can’t wait to hear from you! We welcome your application no later than 22/08/2022.

Competitive salary and benefits discussed at offer stage.

Closing date 22/08/2022.

Date Posted

Closing Date

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.