(Senior) Manager, New Product Strategy, Japan

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: (Senior) Manager, New Product Strategy, Japan Company: BeiGene Location: Japan Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: New Product Strategy / Commercial Operations Date Posted: 2025-10-28 Experience Level: 5-10 years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the strategic commercial assessment and planning for new oncology and hematology pipeline assets within the Japanese market.
• Drive in-depth market research and competitive intelligence to inform product positioning and target product profiles (TPPs).
• Develop initial revenue forecasts and provide analytical support for pipeline prioritization during Long Range Planning (LRP).
• Act as a central liaison for new product evaluation and planning, consolidating insights from cross-functional teams.
• Construct comprehensive business cases that articulate the commercial viability and strategic recommendations for pipeline candidates.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role title and responsibilities, this position falls under the umbrella of Commercial Operations with a strong emphasis on Strategic Planning and New Product Development within the pharmaceutical sector. The focus on "Japan" indicates a need for deep understanding of local regulatory and market dynamics.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with internal cross-functional teams (Medical Affairs, Clinical Development, Commercial, Pricing, Regulatory Affairs, Global Teams) to define Target Product Profiles (TPPs) and establish early product positioning strategies for pipeline assets.
• Conduct comprehensive primary and secondary market research to analyze disease epidemiology, market dynamics, patient segmentation, patient journeys, competitor strategies, and unmet customer needs within the Japanese hematology and oncology landscape.
• Develop preliminary revenue forecasts for pipeline assets, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and cross-functional input.
• Provide robust analytical support to assess and prioritize pipeline programs for inclusion in the Long Range Planning (LRP) process, contributing to strategic resource allocation.
• Serve as the primary point of contact and central hub for all functions involved in new product evaluation and planning, ensuring seamless communication and data integration.
• Create detailed and compelling business cases that synthesize findings from market assessments, competitive analyses, and revenue forecasts, presenting clear recommendations for decision-making.
• Analyze and interpret Japanese regulatory requirements (PMDA/MHLW) to ensure commercial strategies are compliant and optimized for market access.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes a central role in evaluating and planning for new products. The responsibilities suggest a need for strong analytical skills, market understanding, and the ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders in a complex, regulated industry like pharmaceuticals.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Master of Science (M.S.) or PhD required.
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) is preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, with a focus on New Product Planning (NPP), Marketing, or related commercial roles.
• For Senior Manager level, 8+ years of relevant experience is required.
• Significant demonstrated knowledge and experience in Hematology & Oncology therapeutic areas.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in New Product Strategy (NPS) or Marketing within the pharmaceutical sector.
• Deep understanding of Clinical Development strategy and plans.
• Familiarity with Japanese regulatory bodies (PMDA/MHLW) and their processes.
• Strong analytical and strategic problem-solving capabilities.
• Results-oriented mindset with a strategic focus on net profit and business growth.
• Ability to proactively engage in new business development initiatives.
• Commitment to prioritizing customer service and building trusted advisor relationships.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including empathy, active listening, and conflict resolution, to foster positive stakeholder relationships and a collaborative team atmosphere.
• In-depth knowledge of the pharmaceutical market, with specialized expertise in Hematology/Oncology.
• Demonstrated resilience and ability to navigate challenges effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Preferred Skills:

• Broad cross-functional experience in areas such as marketing, sales, clinical development, medical affairs, or regulatory affairs.
• Ability to develop Profit & Loss (P&L) statements, including sales forecasts and operational expenditure/headcount plans.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for an MS/PhD with 5-8+ years of experience, coupled with specific therapeutic area knowledge (Heme/Onc) and regulatory familiarity (PMDA/MHLW), positions this as a mid-to-senior level strategic role. The emphasis on "self-starting, self-managing" and "trusted advisor" relationships highlights the need for an independent, proactive, and collaborative professional.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated ability to develop and present comprehensive business cases that consolidate market research, clinical data, and financial projections for new product evaluations.
• Examples of successfully contributing to the establishment of Target Product Profiles (TPPs) or preferred product profiles, showcasing strategic thinking and market understanding.
• Evidence of conducting market assessments, including disease epidemiology, patient segmentation, and competitive landscape analysis within the pharmaceutical or biotech sectors.
• Documentation of revenue forecast models or analytical support provided for pipeline prioritization and long-range planning processes.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase experience in collaborating with cross-functional teams to align on strategic objectives and product development plans.
• Provide examples of how market insights were translated into actionable commercial strategies or product positioning recommendations.
• Demonstrate understanding of regulatory pathways and requirements (specifically PMDA/MHLW for Japan) and their impact on commercial planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" isn't explicitly requested, the responsibilities strongly imply the need for candidates to demonstrate past work in business case development, market analysis, forecasting, and cross-functional strategic planning. The emphasis on "consolidating findings" and "analytical support" suggests a candidate who can synthesize complex information into clear, actionable insights.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: ¥10,000,000 - ¥18,000,000 JPY per annum (approximately $67,000 - $120,000 USD, depending on exchange rates).
• Explanation: This estimate is based on the Senior Manager/Manager level within the pharmaceutical industry in Japan, specifically for roles requiring specialized therapeutic area knowledge (Hematology & Oncology) and strategic planning expertise. It accounts for the typical compensation structure in large biotech/pharma companies, including base salary and potential bonuses. The range also considers the additional compensation elements like company shares.

Benefits:

• Market competitive compensation package.
• Performance-based annual bonus scheme.
• Company shares (including a generous welcome grant and performance-based annual equity plan).
• In-house and external learning and development opportunities.
• Fantastic benefits program.
• Collaborative, supportive, inclusive, and fun professional environment.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
• While specific flexibility isn't detailed, the role's strategic nature may allow for some autonomy in managing work hours, provided deliverables are met and cross-functional collaboration is maintained.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in Japan and takes into account the "5+ years" and "8+ years" experience levels for Manager and Senior Manager respectively. The inclusion of company shares and performance bonuses are significant components of compensation in the biotech/pharma sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals, with a strong focus on Oncology. Company Size: Over 10,000 employees globally. Founded: 2010.

Team Structure:

• The role reports to the Director of New Product Strategy, indicating a hierarchical structure within the strategic planning function.
• Collaboration is expected with a wide array of internal cross-functional teams, including Medical Affairs, Clinical Development, Commercial, Pricing, Regulatory Affairs, and Global Teams, suggesting a matrixed and highly interactive work environment.
• The "Senior Manager" designation implies potential for leading or mentoring junior team members or contributing to team strategy.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: The role heavily relies on market research, analytical support, and financial modeling to inform strategic decisions regarding pipeline assets.
• Collaborative Planning: Success is contingent on effective collaboration and alignment across diverse functional groups.
• Strategic Prioritization: A key function involves assessing and prioritizing pipeline programs, indicating a focus on resource optimization and long-term business impact.
• Market & Regulatory Acumen: Requires a deep understanding of the pharmaceutical market, particularly in Hematology & Oncology, and specific knowledge of Japanese regulations (PMDA/MHLW).

Company Website: www.beonemedicines.com

📝 Enhancement Note: BeiGene's focus on global oncology and its rapid growth suggest a dynamic, ambitious, and collaborative culture. The emphasis on "radically improving access to medicines" and "fighting cancer" points to a mission-driven organization. The size indicates established processes but also potential for significant impact as an individual contributor or team lead.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior management level within the New Product Strategy function. It requires a blend of scientific understanding, commercial acumen, and strategic planning capabilities. The distinction between Manager and Senior Manager likely hinges on the depth of experience, scope of responsibility, and potential leadership of specific projects or initiatives.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to the Director of New Product Strategy. This implies a clear reporting line within a dedicated strategic planning or commercial operations department. The Director likely provides oversight, guidance, and strategic direction, while the Manager/Senior Manager executes detailed analysis and planning activities.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on BeiGene's future revenue streams and market presence. By providing critical commercial assessments for pipeline assets, the Manager/Senior Manager influences which products advance through development, their positioning in the market, and ultimately, their commercial success. This role is pivotal in translating scientific innovation into market-ready, accessible treatments for cancer patients in Japan.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Progression to a Senior Manager role (if starting as Manager) or to a Director-level position within New Product Strategy or Commercial Operations.
• Therapeutic Area Specialization: Deepening expertise within specific oncology or hematology sub-specialties, becoming a recognized subject matter expert.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into broader commercial roles, marketing, market access, or global strategy positions within BeiGene.
• Skill Enhancement: Continuous learning in areas like advanced market analytics, forecasting techniques, Japanese regulatory strategy, and business development.
• Global Exposure: Potential to contribute to global product strategy discussions and gain broader international market insights.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Manager" to "Senior Manager" progression within a specialized function like New Product Strategy indicates a clear career path. Growth is likely tied to successful project delivery, strategic insight generation, and the ability to influence key stakeholders.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "On-site," indicating a traditional office-based work environment. This suggests a need for physical presence at a BeiGene office in Japan.

Office Location(s): While the job is posted for "Japan," specific city locations are not detailed. BeiGene has administrative offices in Basel, Beijing, and Cambridge, U.S., and a growing global presence, suggesting potential office hubs in major Japanese cities where pharmaceutical operations are concentrated.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The emphasis on cross-functional collaboration implies an office designed to facilitate teamwork, with meeting rooms and open spaces for discussion.
• Access to Resources: As an on-site role, employees will have direct access to company infrastructure, IT support, and in-person interaction with diverse teams.
• Information Hub: The role acts as a "central hub," suggesting an environment where information is shared and integrated, requiring effective communication channels and possibly shared workspaces.
• Professional Setting: Given the pharmaceutical industry and the company's global stature, the workspace is expected to be professional, equipped with the necessary tools for strategic analysis and presentation.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are likely 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. While not explicitly stated, strategic roles of this nature often allow for some flexibility in task management to meet deadlines, especially when coordinating with global teams across different time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" requirement is key. Candidates should be prepared for a traditional office setting in Japan, prioritizing in-person collaboration and access to company resources.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A recruiter or HR representative will review applications and conduct an initial screening call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
2. Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the Director of New Product Strategy to explore specific experiences, strategic thinking, and understanding of the role's responsibilities. This may involve case questions related to product strategy or market analysis.
3. Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with key stakeholders from Medical Affairs, Clinical Development, Commercial, or Regulatory Affairs to evaluate collaboration skills and understanding of their respective functions.
4. Presentation/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to prepare and present on a hypothetical new product strategy, market assessment, or business case. This demonstrates their analytical, strategic, and presentation skills.
5. Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader within the commercial or strategy function for final assessment and offer extension.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure Case Studies: For any presented work (e.g., a hypothetical TPP, market analysis, or business case), structure it logically: Introduction/Objective, Methodology, Findings, Analysis/Insights, Recommendations, and Conclusion.
• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For revenue forecasts, explain the assumptions and methodology. For market insights, highlight key drivers and their potential impact.
• Showcase Collaboration: When discussing projects, highlight how you collaborated with different functions and how you integrated their input into your strategy or analysis.
• Tailor to BeiGene: Research BeiGene's current pipeline, therapeutic areas of focus (especially oncology/hematology in Japan), and recent product launches. Frame your portfolio examples to align with their strategic priorities and market context.
• Highlight Japanese Market Nuances: If you have relevant experience in the Japanese pharmaceutical market, specifically with PMDA/MHLW, emphasize it.

Challenge Preparation:

• Market Assessment Simulation: Be prepared to analyze a hypothetical disease area or product, identify market opportunities, assess competitive threats, and propose a target product profile.
• Forecasting Scenarios: Practice developing revenue forecasts based on given assumptions, explaining your rationale for market share, pricing, and uptake.
• Strategic Prioritization: Consider how you would evaluate and prioritize multiple pipeline assets with limited resources, justifying your decision-making process.
• Cross-Functional Communication: Prepare to explain complex strategic or analytical concepts clearly and concisely to individuals from different functional backgrounds.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "central hub" role and creating "comprehensive business cases" suggests that interviewers will look for candidates who can synthesize information, present strategic recommendations clearly, and demonstrate a strong understanding of the pharmaceutical product lifecycle and market dynamics.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM: While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) is often beneficial for understanding sales data and customer engagement, though less critical for a pure strategy role.
• Project Management Software: Tools like Asana, Trello, or Jira might be used for tracking project progress and cross-functional tasks.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Excel: Essential for data analysis, financial modeling, revenue forecasting, and creating ad-hoc reports. Advanced proficiency is expected.
• Business Intelligence/Dashboarding Tools: Experience with tools like Tableau, Power BI, or QlikView could be beneficial for visualizing market data and trends, though not explicitly required.
• Market Research Databases: Familiarity with pharmaceutical market research platforms (e.g., IQVIA, GlobalData, Clarivate) for secondary research.

CRM & Automation:

• Presentation Software: Highly skilled in Microsoft PowerPoint for creating compelling presentations of business cases, market analyses, and strategic recommendations.
• Data Analysis Software: While not specified, statistical software like R or Python might be used for more advanced analytical support if the role requires deep quantitative analysis, though Excel is highlighted as primary.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description specifically calls out "Highly skilled in Word, Excel and PowerPoint." This indicates that proficiency in these core Microsoft Office Suite applications is a non-negotiable requirement. Other tools are inferred based on industry standards for strategic analysis and forecasting.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Patients First: A core value for BeiGene, emphasizing that all strategic decisions ultimately aim to improve patient access to innovative cancer treatments.
• Collaborative Spirit: The role requires extensive collaboration across numerous departments, highlighting the importance of teamwork, open communication, and shared problem-solving.
• Bold Ingenuity: Encourages innovative thinking and a proactive approach to tackling complex challenges in drug development and market strategy.
• Driving Excellence: A commitment to high performance, rigorous analysis, and achieving impactful results that contribute to the company's mission and financial success.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expected to work seamlessly with diverse teams, requiring strong communication skills to bridge technical, clinical, regulatory, and commercial perspectives.
• Stakeholder Management: Building "trusted advisor" relationships with internal stakeholders is crucial for influencing decisions and gaining buy-in for strategic recommendations.
• Feedback Exchange: A culture that likely values providing and receiving honest, actionable feedback to foster continuous improvement in strategy and execution.
• Analytical & Data-Driven: Decisions and discussions are expected to be grounded in data and rigorous analysis, fostering a culture of objective evaluation.

📝 Enhancement Note: BeiGene's stated values (Patients First, Collaborative Spirit, Bold Ingenuity, Driving Excellence) are fundamental to understanding the expected work culture. The emphasis on "trusted advisor relationships" and "interpersonal skills" points to a collaborative yet results-driven environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Japanese Market Complexity: Understanding and integrating the nuances of the Japanese pharmaceutical market, including regulatory pathways (PMDA/MHLW), payer dynamics, and physician prescribing habits, presents a significant challenge.
• Balancing Global vs. Local Strategy: Aligning global product strategies with the specific needs and opportunities of the Japanese market requires careful strategic navigation and stakeholder management.
• Early-Stage Uncertainty: Working with clinical-stage assets means dealing with inherent scientific and clinical uncertainties, requiring robust scenario planning and adaptability in forecasts and strategies.
• Cross-Functional Alignment: Achieving consensus and driving action across multiple departments with potentially competing priorities can be a complex operational challenge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Therapeutic Area Expertise: Deepening knowledge within specific oncology or hematology sub-fields through internal resources and industry events.
• Advanced Strategic Planning & Forecasting: Opportunities to hone skills in market modeling, competitive intelligence, and long-range planning methodologies.
• Japanese Regulatory & Market Access: Gaining in-depth understanding of the Japanese pharmaceutical landscape through direct exposure and potentially professional development courses.
• Leadership and Influence: Developing skills in stakeholder management, influencing without direct authority, and presenting to senior leadership.
• Global Strategy Exposure: Contributing to global product strategy discussions and learning from international colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges primarily revolve around market-specific complexities and the inherent uncertainties of early-stage product development. Growth opportunities are clearly linked to deepening specialized knowledge and developing strategic leadership skills within a global pharmaceutical context.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Pipeline Prioritization: "Given three early-stage oncology assets with varying clinical data and market potential, how would you prioritize them for further investment in Japan, and what data would you need to support your decision?" (Focus on analytical framework, risk assessment, and Japanese market considerations.)
• Target Product Profile Development: "Describe your process for developing a Target Product Profile for a new hematology drug in Japan. What key factors would you consider from R&D, Clinical, Regulatory, and Commercial perspectives?" (Emphasize cross-functional input and market-driven optimization.)
• Competitive Response: "Imagine a key competitor launches a similar drug in Japan six months before your expected launch. How would you adjust your commercial strategy and positioning?" (Assess strategic agility, competitive analysis, and tactical planning.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Mission Alignment: "What specifically about BeiGene's mission to fight cancer resonates with you, and how do you see yourself contributing to that mission in this role?" (Demonstrate understanding of company values and personal motivation.)
• Collaboration Experience: "Describe a time you had to collaborate with a challenging cross-functional team to achieve a strategic goal. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight interpersonal skills, empathy, and conflict resolution.)
• Working in Japan: "What are your insights into the Japanese pharmaceutical market, and what unique considerations would you apply to new product strategy development for this region?" (Showcase market-specific knowledge and strategic thinking.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Case Study Selection: Choose 1-2 impactful projects that best showcase your ability to conduct market analysis, develop strategic recommendations, and influence outcomes. Prioritize projects related to oncology, hematology, or new product planning if possible.
• Quantify Results: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your methodology, the insights derived, your specific contribution, and the measurable results or projected impact. Use data and visuals effectively.
• Focus on Process & Rationale: Explain why you made certain strategic choices or analytical assumptions. Demonstrate your thought process and how you integrated diverse information.
• Address Japanese Market Context: If presenting a hypothetical scenario, explicitly incorporate Japanese market specifics (e.g., PMDA considerations, local competitive landscape, healthcare system nuances).
• Concise and Engaging Delivery: Practice your presentation to ensure it is clear, concise, and within the allocated time. Be prepared to answer detailed questions about any aspect of your presented work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, analytical rigor, cross-functional collaboration skills, and a deep understanding of the pharmaceutical market, particularly in Japan. Candidates should be ready to articulate their process and justify their recommendations with data and logic.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday job portal link.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific experience in pharmaceutical New Product Strategy, Market Research, Commercial Assessments, Revenue Forecasting, and Hematology/Oncology. Quantify achievements with metrics wherever possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio Highlights: Be ready to discuss 1-2 key projects that demonstrate your strategic thinking, analytical capabilities, and ability to create business cases or target product profiles. Focus on projects with measurable impact or clear strategic rationale.
• Research BeiGene Thoroughly: Understand their current pipeline, therapeutic areas of focus (especially in Japan), recent news, and company values. Prepare to articulate how your skills and experience align with their mission and business objectives.
• Practice Case Study Responses: Familiarize yourself with common pharmaceutical strategy interview questions, particularly those related to market analysis, product positioning, and forecasting in a Japanese context.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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