EU Distribution Team Lead

Join a high‑performing pharma company where your scheduling expertise keeps site supply chain distribution running with precision, efficiency, and flawless coordination.

R&D Partners is seeking a motivated and skilled professional to lead the implementation of a new European distribution network. This role focuses on improving service, reducing costs, supporting sustainability goals, and ensuring smooth transitions across multiple countries. You will work closely with internal teams and external logistics providers to manage the project, address local requirements, and ensure successful execution while maintaining business continuity.

Please note that to be considered for this role you must have the right to work in this location.

Responsibilities:

• Create and manage a detailed plan for implementing the new distribution network across Europe.
• Break down the strategy into actionable country-specific plans, addressing local needs like regulations, quality, and customer service.
• Oversee phased rollouts, ensuring alignment across different teams and timelines.
• Set up and manage governance processes, including progress updates, decision-making, and risk management.
• Assess impacts on people, processes, systems, and operations, ensuring smooth transitions.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal teams to finalize contracts and operating procedures.
• Develop and execute transition plans, including inventory management and system readiness.
• Lead rehearsals, readiness reviews, and go-live activities to ensure smooth implementation.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders, explaining changes, benefits, and required actions.
• Coordinate training, documentation, and support materials for impacted teams.
• Monitor performance, resolve issues quickly, and ensure benefits are achieved post-implementation.
• Conduct reviews to identify improvements and sustain long-term success.
• Travel within Europe as needed to support the project.

Key Skills and Requirements:

• Experience in managing large-scale, multi-country projects in supply chain, logistics, or business transformation.
• Knowledge of pharmaceutical distribution and related regulatory and operational considerations.
• Strong planning, risk management, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage supplier transitions and ensure operational readiness.
• Expertise in stakeholder engagement, change management, and clear communication.
• Analytical skills to track performance and measure outcomes.
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and able to work in fast-paced environments.
• Familiarity with SAP systems and formal project/change management certifications is a plus.
• Fluency in English; additional European languages are a bonus.

For more information, please contact Emma Miles

If you are interested in applying to this exciting opportunity, then please click ‘Apply’ or to speak to one of our specialists visit the ‘Contact Us’ page.

R&D Partners is a leading life sciences recruiter focused on finding exceptional people and matching them with the finest positions across the globe. R&D Partners is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

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