The healthcare & pharmaceutical industries are constantly innovating, developing new drugs and treatments to improve health and well-being, but these breakthroughs can only reach patients with a dedicated commercial team behind them. Explore exciting commercial roles within marketing, sales, distribution, and more for the life sciences industry.
In the world of life sciences, “commercial” encompasses activities such as marketing, sales, and distribution for pharmaceuticals, biotechnology products, medical devices, and other healthcare innovations. It’s where you can drive awareness, promote cutting-edge products, and ensure life-changing treatments reach those who need them most.
Here is a glimpse into the diverse and impactful world of commercial life sciences and pharmaceutical careers:
From market research to product branding, advertising, and promotion – marketing efforts aim to raise awareness of products or services among healthcare professionals, patients, and other relevant stakeholders.
Working directly with decision-makers and buyers at hospitals, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers, sales roles help to create new distribution channels, provide product information, and address customer queries.
Distribution and supply chain roles involve management of the logistics of getting products from the manufacturer to the end-user. This may include inventory management, warehousing, transportation, and order fulfilment.
Market access teams work to maximise product availability ensuring product supply and reimbursement agreements are in place with insurance providers, healthcare programs, and other payers.
Key account managers build and maintain relationships with customers such as large hospitals, healthcare systems, and group purchasing organisations to ensure a continuous partnership with excellent service.
Business development teams are responsible for identifying and pursuing opportunities for growth, such as partnerships, licensing agreements, and acquisitions to expand market presence, drive revenue, and foster innovation.
Commercial roles can be highly rewarding, allowing candidates to:
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Discover where your career opportunities can take you. Visit our careers page to find your next exciting role in life sciences and the pharmaceutical industry.
At Entrust Resource Solutions (ERS), our team brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to life sciences and STEM recruitment. Through decades of combined experience, we have been pivotal in driving company growth and executing strategic acquisitions for our clients.
We offer a unique “bench to board” resourcing service and are actively working to bridge sector skills gaps and foster the next generation of life sciences professionals. We match clients with candidates using a personalised and human-centric approach that delivers outstanding service across temporary and permanent placements to ensure you not only find the right hire but the right fit for your business.
Frequently asked questions about commercial roles in life sciences and healthcare.
Commercial excellence in pharmaceuticals (and more widely in life sciences) refers to the optimisation of commercial strategies and operations to maximise the value and impact of pharmaceutical and other consumer products – whether it’s new medication, medical devices, or other products. By implementing best practices across marketing, sales, distribution, market access, and customer relationship management, the industry can run more efficiently and address customer needs effectively.
While our team will guide you throughout the hiring process and provide tailored recommendations for upskilling and resources, the key skills across most life sciences roles include:
A career in commercial pharmaceuticals offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of science, business, and healthcare. It also allows you to contribute to bringing new, innovative treatments to market and improving patient outcomes, as well as providing continuous professional development opportunities that lead to diverse career paths and career growth.
To get started in a commercial pharma or healthcare role, you typically need a relevant educational background in life sciences, business, or a related field; though experience gained through other positions in marketing, sales, or related areas can be beneficial. Speak to our team about available and upcoming roles to find out more.