Purpose:
The Country Manager Kenya will oversee the achievement of business objectives and spearhead expansion efforts within the market by:
To drive sustained sales expansion within the existing portfolio, with a primary emphasis on oncology, mental health, and immunology.
Securing reimbursement from funding bodies to sustain our innovation initiatives is essential.
Spearheading the implementation of the Mental Health initiative, you will collaboratively guide project execution alongside a designated lead, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and operational excellence.
We are excited to unveil our groundbreaking new portfolio, showcasing cutting-edge solutions designed to elevate market performance and deliver unparalleled value to our clients.
We oversee our strategic partnerships with distributors in Kenya to enhance business growth and operational efficiency. This role involves coordinating closely with these partners to ensure seamless collaboration, aligning their efforts with our organizational objectives, and fostering mutually beneficial outcomes. By maintaining strong relationships and optimizing distributor performance, we aim to strengthen our market presence and achieve sustainable revenue expansion in the region.
To achieve this, our efforts must prioritize cultivating a strong, positive local corporate identity while fully adhering to all applicable local regulations. Collaboration with internal and external stakeholders will be essential where necessary, and our overarching goal is to bolster trust and enhance our reputation within the community.
Performs essential duties and responsibilities, including overseeing daily operations, managing team performance, ensuring workflow efficiency, and maintaining compliance with company policies and industry regulations. Responsibilities involve coordinating cross-functional projects, analyzing operational data to identify trends, and implementing process improvements to enhance productivity. Additionally, the role requires collaborating with stakeholders to align business objectives, mentoring staff to foster professional development, and reporting key performance metrics to senior leadership. Strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and proficiency in data-driven decision-making are essential for success in this position.
Achieving local business objectives through effective collaboration with distributors, as needed, plays a crucial role in driving success in this position.
Establishing national sales targets—including forecasts, growth projections, and market share—requires aligning with portfolio capabilities, product lifecycle stages, and regional business objectives.
Develop and manage required budgets while optimizing resource allocation to ensure maximum efficiency and effectiveness.
Review and endorse every initiative and action undertaken by the sales, medical, regulatory, marketing, and market access teams to ensure alignment with organizational objectives and compliance standards.
To drive sustained growth in our existing portfolio, particularly within oncology, mental health, and immunology, this role will involve strategic resource allocation, continuous monitoring of stock levels throughout the supply chain, and close collaboration with distributors. Additionally, the position requires meticulous reporting and alignment with cross-functional teams to ensure operational excellence and market responsiveness.
We are introducing our groundbreaking new portfolio, with strategic initiatives already underway for key products, encompassing regulatory submissions, market access strategies, tender negotiations and submissions, and targeted medical education initiatives as needed.
Conducting a localized examination of insights allows for the identification of potential opportunities and risks inherent in existing strategies, facilitating the early detection of issues and the formulation of corrective actions.
Spearhead our mental health initiatives, cultivating a supportive and inclusive environment that prioritizes employee well-being. Develop and implement comprehensive programs aimed at enhancing mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and providing accessible resources for all staff members. Collaborate with leadership and cross-functional teams to integrate mental health strategies into company policies and practices, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Lead training sessions, workshops, and awareness campaigns to educate employees on mental health topics, stress management, and resilience-building techniques. Foster a culture of psychological safety where individuals feel empowered to seek support and openly discuss mental health challenges. Monitor program effectiveness through feedback and data analysis, refining approaches to maximize impact and engagement.
While executing business objectives, strict adherence to J&J guidelines, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and all applicable local laws and regulations must be maintained.
We focus on growing the local business and mentoring the team to enhance overall performance and achieve organizational goals.
Establishing a productive local work environment and fostering seamless operational integration, this role cultivates a Johnson & Johnson corporate mindset while facilitating key functions.
Identify, cultivate, and maintain top-tier talent to ensure a robust succession pipeline.
Ensuring complete cohesion among all functions and individuals, while inspiring and guiding the team to successfully meet the country’s objectives.
Exemplify leadership through consistent actions and professional conduct, serving as an inspirational example for team members to emulate.
Strengthening the local image and reputation of Johnson & Johnson represents a core objective of this role, ensuring alignment with the company’s global standards while fostering trust and credibility within the community.
Cultivate and enhance strategic partnerships with key market stakeholders, including opinion leaders, regulatory authorities, and pharmaceutical associations.
The position entails ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and pharmaceutical guidelines, encompassing a range of duties associated with compliance and pharmaceutical operations.
Ensure adherence to all applicable local regulations, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (CPA), Healthcare Business Integrity (CBI) guidelines, and the Policy on Business Conduct (PBC).
To maintain inspection readiness, verify adherence to personal training requirements and confirm the availability of an updated curriculum vitae and a tailored job description.
To ensure strict adherence to HCC and legal standards—including Fair Market Value, Transfer of Value rules, and Promotional Materials regulations—thoroughly review and manage these requirements throughout the project lifecycle, from planning and material development to execution. Prior to launch, adapt relevant EMEA-generated promotional materials to align with local regulations and guidelines.
Ensure all adverse events and product quality complaints are reported promptly in accordance with Johnson & Johnson’s pharmacovigilance guidelines.
Ensure strict adherence to safety reporting protocols, including timely AE and PQC reporting, in accordance with established company policies and SOPs throughout project planning, material development, execution, and vendor contracting phases.
Internal Interactions:
Facilitates seamless collaboration and communication among team members, departments, and leadership to ensure alignment with organizational goals and project objectives. Serves as a liaison between various stakeholders, fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and mutual support. Manages internal inquiries, escalates issues when necessary, and ensures timely resolution to maintain operational efficiency. Promotes a collaborative work environment by encouraging knowledge sharing, mentoring colleagues, and participating in cross-functional initiatives.
Functions are executed locally and regionally across various domains, including medical, regulatory, sales, supply chain, finance, human resources, technical account leadership, and general administration.
Other regional leadership roles encompass positions such as Regulatory Affairs, Medical Affairs, Human Capital, Quality Assurance, Finance, Country Directors, and Information Technology, among others.
We engage with external stakeholders, partners, and clients to foster collaborative relationships and ensure seamless communication across all touchpoints. This role requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to represent the organization professionally in various settings, including meetings, negotiations, and public-facing events. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in building trust, resolving conflicts, and aligning external parties with organizational goals. Additionally, the position involves maintaining up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and competitor activities to strategically position the company in the market.
Esteemed thought leaders in their respective fields, Key Opinion Leaders (Vols) are recognized for their profound expertise and significant influence. These individuals possess extensive knowledge and a strong reputation, often shaping industry trends and guiding strategic decisions. Their insights are highly valued by organizations seeking to enhance credibility, expand reach, or drive innovation in competitive markets.
Medical organizations seek skilled professionals to facilitate collaboration among healthcare providers, advocate for industry standards, and promote the advancement of medical practices. Candidates must possess a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as public health, healthcare administration, or a related discipline, along with proven experience in stakeholder engagement, policy development, or healthcare advocacy. Responsibilities include organizing industry events, developing educational resources, and representing the association in legislative discussions to influence healthcare policy. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential, as is the ability to work effectively with diverse groups, including government agencies, healthcare professionals, and patient advocacy groups. Proficiency in data analysis and familiarity with healthcare regulations are also required to support evidence-based initiatives.
Distributors are responsible for overseeing the efficient movement of goods from manufacturers to retailers or end consumers. They negotiate contracts with suppliers and vendors, ensuring favorable terms and pricing. Additionally, they manage inventory levels, coordinate logistics, and resolve any supply chain disruptions. Strong analytical skills and proficiency in inventory management software are essential for success in this role. Effective communication and negotiation abilities are also critical to maintaining productive relationships with partners.
Governmental agencies are responsible for enforcing laws, managing public resources, and delivering essential services to citizens, operating at federal, state, and local levels across various sectors, including healthcare, education, transportation, and public safety. They seek professionals with strong analytical skills, policy expertise, and a commitment to public service, often requiring relevant educational backgrounds such as degrees in public administration, law, or related fields. Responsibilities typically involve conducting research, drafting reports, implementing programs, ensuring regulatory compliance, and collaborating with stakeholders to address community needs and government objectives. Positions may range from entry-level roles to executive leadership, with opportunities for specialization in areas like policy analysis, program management, or administrative coordination.
Required qualifications and competencies include a comprehensive understanding of the subject, along with proficiency in relevant technical and analytical skills. Candidates must demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and the capacity to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a team environment. Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential for conveying complex information clearly and engaging with stakeholders at all levels. Familiarity with industry-specific tools, software, or methodologies is required, as is the ability to adapt to evolving priorities and challenges within a dynamic work setting. Previous experience in a similar role is preferred, ensuring the candidate can contribute meaningfully from the outset.
A bachelor’s degree or higher is mandatory for this role. Candidates possessing an advanced degree, particularly an MBA or a degree in the life sciences, will be given preference.
With a minimum of seven to ten years of steadily advancing commercial experience, preferably within the pharmaceutical sector, candidates should demonstrate a proven track record in the field.
Experience or educational qualifications gained outside Kenya are strongly preferred.
Fluent proficiency in English and at least one additional local language, such as Swahili, is essential.
Demonstrated expertise in functioning within complex, matrixed organizational structures and collaborating across diverse functional teams.
Demonstrated experience in supervising teams and providing strategic direction is required, along with a proven track record in people management and leadership development.
Proven expertise in financial forecasting and budget development is required, along with a strong ability to analyze trends, allocate resources efficiently, and ensure fiscal alignment with organizational goals. Candidates should demonstrate experience in creating accurate financial projections, monitoring expenditures, and adjusting plans to meet evolving business needs.
With a demonstrated entrepreneurial spirit, a proactive approach, and strong problem-solving abilities, the ideal candidate will thrive in this role.
Capable of independently organizing and managing tasks to ensure adherence to established quality benchmarks and delivery timelines.
Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities, along with polished presentation skills, are essential.
Seeking an individual eager to contribute within a tight-knit, highly collaborative team environment where cooperation and shared goals drive success.
Applicants should demonstrate behaviors consistent with the J&J Global Leadership Profile, encompassing—among other qualities—actions grounded in integrity and the company credo, a commitment to collaboration and teamwork, a proactive sense of urgency combined with a results-oriented mindset, as well as a dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion.
The essential skills and qualifications needed for this position include:
An individual with a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a proven track record of success is sought for this role.
Responsible for leading and overseeing team dynamics, as well as cultivating and enhancing the skills and potential of team members. This role involves guiding employees through professional growth opportunities, implementing structured development plans, and fostering a high-performing and collaborative work environment.
Proficient in conveying ideas clearly and persuasively through both spoken and written communication channels.
Demonstrates exceptional ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders across diverse settings. Exhibits a knack for building rapport, resolving conflicts, and fostering a positive and inclusive work environment. Requires a proven track record of active listening, empathy, and clear, concise verbal and written communication in both individual and group interactions.
Skilled in managing stakeholders and fostering robust customer relationships
Managing complexity involves adeptly navigating multifaceted challenges and ensuring efficient resolution of intricate issues. This role demands a keen ability to analyze and interpret diverse data sets, while balancing competing priorities with precision. Proficiency in strategic planning and adaptability to dynamic environments are essential, as is the capacity to communicate complex concepts clearly to stakeholders at all levels. Candidates must demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to anticipating and mitigating potential obstacles.
Demonstrates a strong commitment to ethical business practices and maintains unwavering integrity in all professional interactions.
Fluent proficiency in both English and Swahili, including the local dialect, is required.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
7 - 10 years
