About Gilead Sciences

Gilead Sciences is a leading biopharmaceutical company dedicated to creating a healthier world for all people. For more than 35 years, Gilead has tackled some of the world's biggest health challenges, including HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, and cancer. The company relentlessly develops innovative therapies that improve lives and ensures access to these treatments across the globe. Gilead's portfolio also extends to oncology and inflammatory diseases, where groundbreaking research continues to push the boundaries of medical science. With a mission rooted in collaboration, determination, and excellence, Gilead fosters an environment where every employee contributes to life-changing scientific innovations.

Role Overview

The GPS Commercial Operations Director role within Gilead's Global Patients Solutions (GPS) business unit is a pivotal leadership position based in Uxbridge, United Kingdom. GPS serves over 100 low-income countries to promote health equity and sustainable commercial strategies. This role focuses on the CAMENA (Central Asia, Middle East, and North Africa) region, managing key markets like Iran, Iraq, Lebanon—major drivers of the Ambisome business—and developing access in Kazakhstan. It also involves onboarding a new distributor in North Africa, requiring strategic adaptability in diverse, complex environments. Reporting to the Head and Executive Director of the GPS Distributor Markets Region, you will collaborate closely with teams in London and across the region to align commercial efforts with Gilead's global ambitions.

Key Responsibilities

In this dynamic role, you will lead the deployment of strategic and tactical planning processes tailored to North Africa and Middle East markets, ensuring alignment with corporate goals and local dynamics. Key duties include prioritizing Plans of Action (POA) to drive Ambisome sales in the Levant and crafting access strategies for Kazakhstan. You will develop and tailor regional brand campaigns, respecting local regulations, customer segments, and cultural nuances. Partnering with Access teams, Medical Affairs, and General Management, you will build compelling business cases for product launches, access programs, and lifecycle management. Additional responsibilities encompass managing promotional budgets with strict compliance, maintaining expertise in regional legal requirements, conducting training and audits, and generating demand forecasts incorporating growth scenarios for North Africa, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, and Kazakhstan. As a subject matter expert on Gilead’s GPS products, you will provide critical insights into market challenges and opportunities.

Strategic Leadership in Challenging Markets

Navigate data-scarce environments with independent decision-making, fostering local capabilities and distributor relationships in newly merged markets.

Qualifications & Requirements

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree and bring significant experience in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly with specialty products in sales, marketing, or commercial excellence roles. Expertise in managing diverse regions like the Middle East, Central Asia, and North Africa is essential, including proven skills in access development and distributor onboarding. Experience developing Kazakhstan market access strategies is highly valued, alongside the ability to work across cultures and regulations. Strong presentation, analytical skills, cross-functional leadership, and proficiency in English are required. Alignment with Gilead Core Values—Integrity, Teamwork, and Excellence—is non-negotiable.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead Sciences offers a premium compensation package, including a competitive salary estimated between £90,000 and £150,000 annually, with performance incentives. Employees enjoy comprehensive health benefits, retirement plans, and wellness programs. Professional development opportunities abound, including leadership training and career progression paths. Work in a collaborative culture that emphasizes inclusion, empowerment, and work-life balance, with flexible arrangements in Uxbridge.

Career Growth

As a People Leader at Gilead, you drive cultural evolution and employee development. This Director-level role positions you for executive advancement within GPS and beyond, leveraging Gilead's global network. Gain exposure to high-impact projects in health equity, oncology, HIV, and inflammatory diseases, building a legacy of strategic leadership in biopharma.

Why Join Gilead

Joining Gilead means contributing to bold ambitions in fighting global health challenges. Be part of a team where your expertise in complex markets directly impacts lives through therapies for HIV, cancer, viral hepatitis, and more. In Uxbridge, enjoy a supportive environment with top-tier resources, fostering innovation and personal growth. Gilead's commitment to every employee as a key asset ensures you thrive while making a difference.

Role FAQs

What is the reporting structure?

This role reports to the Head and Executive Director of the GPS Distributor Markets Region, with close collaboration with London-based teams.

Is relocation support provided?

Gilead offers competitive relocation assistance for eligible roles to support your transition to Uxbridge.

What experience is most critical?

Pharma experience in Middle East/North Africa, distributor management, and Kazakhstan access strategies are key.

How does this role contribute to Gilead's mission?

By driving sustainable commercial plans in low-income countries, enabling access to life-saving therapies like Ambisome.

Is the position full-time?

Yes, this is a full-time leadership role.