Job Title: Product Manager – Gastrointestinal Portfolio Location: Tokyo, Japan Department: Marketing & Sales Reports to: Business Unit Manager or Head of Marketing Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent Company Overview This position is with a global research-based pharmaceutical company known for its long-term commitment to therapeutic innovation, with a focus on areas of significant unmet medical need. The Japan affiliate plays a strategic role in delivering these innovations to local patients, contributing to public health while aligning with global development and commercial efforts. Position Summary The Product Manager – Gastrointestinal (GI) Portfolio will lead the strategic planning, execution, and lifecycle management of one or more key products in the GI therapeutic area. The role requires strong knowledge of the local healthcare and competitive landscape, and involves the development of targeted strategies to maximize brand performance, drive patient access, and support cross-functional collaboration across the organization. Key Responsibilities
Define and execute brand strategies for assigned GI product(s), including positioning, target populations, and differentiation.
Oversee full lifecycle management: pre-launch planning, launch execution, growth acceleration, and potential late-stage brand planning.
Monitor performance metrics such as sales, market share, and patient uptake; propose tactical adjustments as needed.
Coordinate with global and regional teams to ensure alignment between local execution and global strategic direction.
2. Market Analysis & Insight Generation
Conduct market research and competitive intelligence to understand trends, stakeholder needs (physicians, patients, payers), and evolving treatment landscapes.
Leverage insights from KOLs and external partners to inform strategic decision-making and brand planning.
3. Marketing Campaign Development
Develop impactful marketing campaigns for both digital and traditional channels, tailored to healthcare professionals.
Manage creation of promotional materials, sales tools, and scientific/educational content in compliance with local regulations and internal standards.
Track and analyze campaign effectiveness to continuously optimize ROI and brand engagement.
4. Cross-Functional Collaboration
Collaborate closely with Sales, Medical Affairs, Market Access, Regulatory, Training, and other internal teams to ensure aligned and cohesive brand strategies.
Provide strategic input into access initiatives and promotional activities.
Support field force engagement through training and by equipping the sales team with effective communication tools.
5. New Product or Indication Launches
Lead launch readiness planning for new GI indications or products.
Ensure seamless coordination with internal teams and external stakeholders for timely, successful market entry.
6. Budget & Compliance Oversight
Manage annual brand budget and ensure optimal use of resources.
Maintain strict compliance with applicable industry regulations and internal governance policies related to product promotion and communication.
Qualifications & Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Pharmacy, Medicine, or Business with marketing emphasis.
3–5+ years of pharmaceutical brand/product management experience, ideally in GI or related specialties.
Experience in planning and executing successful marketing strategies in Japan, including new product launches.
Strong understanding of Japan’s pharmaceutical market and regulatory environment.
Analytical and strategic mindset with excellent problem-solving abilities.
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills; ability to influence across functions.
Business-level proficiency in Japanese
Comfortable working in a matrix organization.
Willingness to travel domestically and internationally (approx. 30–50%).