Senior Director, Channel Strategy and Patient Support

📋 Description

• Perform market analysis on distribution methods and trends within Immunology and Atopic Derm to gain insight into the current distribution environment and network.

• Establish and oversee Apogee’s enterprise channel strategy encompassing wholesale, specialty distribution, and specialty pharmacy networks as we transition our pipeline towards commercialization.

• Create optimal distribution models (e.g., open vs. limited networks, specialty pharmacy, hub integration) that align with product strategy, patient journey, and access objectives.

• As we near launch, design and execute a high-performing specialty pharmacy network, which includes selection criteria, network scope, and a performance management framework.

• Direct the negotiation, contracting, and continuous management of wholesalers, specialty distributors, and specialty pharmacies.

• Ensure network preparedness for product launch, including data integration, reporting, inventory, and patient onboarding workflows.

• Develop and sustain senior-level relationships with key trade and distribution stakeholders to position Apogee as a preferred partner.

• Continuously evaluate and enhance network performance to boost speed to therapy, patient experience, and adherence.

• Perform a patient services landscape evaluation across Atopic Derm brands and other Dermatology brands to benchmark offerings and programs in the current market, guiding the development of Apogee’s patient services.

• Create and lead a comprehensive patient support program, covering hub services, benefits investigation, prior authorization assistance, co-pay support, patient education, and adherence initiatives.

• Build and manage a team of Formulary Reimbursement Managers who will cultivate relationships and provide industry-leading support to healthcare professionals regarding reimbursement dynamics and challenges.

• Ensure a seamless, patient-centric experience from prescription to therapy initiation and persistence.

• Select, onboard, and manage vendors that support patient services and hub operations.

• Define and monitor KPIs (e.g., time to therapy, abandonment rates, adherence) while driving continuous improvement.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Market Access, Commercial Strategy, Supply Chain, Medical, Regulatory, and Legal teams to ensure aligned and compliant execution.

• Provide insights into forecasting, financial modeling, and scenario planning related to distribution and patient services.

• Build, lead, and develop a high-performing team across channel strategy, trade relations, and patient support.

• Mentor and develop talent, establishing the capabilities necessary for future growth and launches.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent; an advanced business degree or MBA is preferred.

• Minimum of 10 years of industry experience in Trade Relations/Channel Strategy and/or Patient Services and Support; experience with Specialty products or Immunology is advantageous.

• Proven history of consistently meeting and surpassing expectations in current and previous roles.

• In-depth expertise in specialty pharmaceutical supply chain and patient services programs strategy and operations.

• Strong negotiation skills, experience with wholesaler distribution service agreements, and management of daily relationships.

• Experience in constructing and implementing a high-performance specialty pharmacy distribution network.

• Exceptional communication skills with a proven ability to present to both large and small audiences.

• Successfully embody Apogee’s C.O.R.E. values: Caring, Original, Resilient, and Egoless.

• This position requires up to 10% travel, including mandatory in-person attendance at Apogee All Hands meetings, typically conducted twice a year, as well as travel to functional meetings and industry conferences.

🏝️ Benefits

• A vibrant culture rooted in our C.O.R.E. values: Caring, Original, Resilient, and Egoless.

• Opportunity to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where you can help shape the culture and the company, wear multiple hats, and learn swiftly.

• Competitive market compensation and benefits package, including base salary, performance bonuses, equity grant opportunities, health, welfare, and retirement benefits.

• We offer competitive time off, including three weeks of PTO, two week-long company-wide shutdowns each year, and dedicated paid sick leave.

• A commitment to your professional growth and access to resources to further your development.

• Apogee provides regular, in-person all-team meetings to foster relationships and collaborate on problem-solving.