Director, Distribution Operations – Japan

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic leader to join our team as the Director of Distribution Operations in Japan. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to shape the distribution network, optimize cost-to-serve, and contribute to delivering best-in-class service in the pharmaceutical sector. If you are passionate about driving operational excellence and fostering collaboration, this is your chance to make a meaningful impact.

A Typical Day:

• Set the strategic direction and governance model for Japan’s distribution network, including wholesalers and 3PLs.
• Define and manage vendor SLAs/KPIs, conduct quarterly business reviews, and negotiate contracts in collaboration with Legal.
• Oversee distribution budgets, pricing guidance, and rebate programs to support revenue maximization and sustainability.
• Direct implementation and governance of in-market sales data systems, ensuring data quality and delivering actionable analytics.
• Establish standardized processes for claims, returns, and multi-brand Return/Replacement Programs, reducing friction and costs.
• Drive risk management and business continuity planning for distribution operations, including contingency plans and operational risk monitoring.
• Build and lead a high-performing team, fostering a culture of accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement.
• Serve as the senior liaison with wholesalers and key market stakeholders, addressing complaints and supporting sales promotion programs.

This Role May Be For You:

• You thrive in strategic and analytical roles, translating insights into operational and commercial outcomes.
• You have deep knowledge of GDP, MHLW requirements, trade compliance, contract law basics, and sustainability standards.
• You are skilled in project and program management, capable of handling multiple initiatives, timelines, and stakeholders concurrently.
• You excel in executive communication and negotiation, influencing senior leaders, external partners, and cross-functional teams.
• You are proficient in tools like SAP/S4, WMS/TMS, Power BI/Tableau, SharePoint, and Microsoft Excel/PowerPoint.
• You are passionate about fostering collaboration and developing talent within your team.
• You bring demonstrated success in leading distribution/trade operations in the Japan pharmaceutical market.

To Be Considered:

• 12–15+ years of experience in international biopharmaceutical distribution/trade operations, including cross-functional leadership.
• 5+ years of direct people leadership and vendor governance experience.
• Proven expertise in Japan distribution models and wholesaler management; EU/US market exposure is a plus.
• Native level proficiency in Japanese and fluent English; familiarity with Japan-specific cultural business practices.

Does this sound like you? Apply now to take your first step towards living the Regeneron Way! We have an inclusive culture that provides comprehensive benefits, which vary by location.  In the U.S., benefits may include health and wellness programs (including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance), fitness centers, 401(k) company match, family support benefits, equity awards, annual bonuses, paid time off, and paid leaves (e.g., military and parental leave) for eligible employees at all levels! For additional information about Regeneron benefits in the US, please visit https://careers.regeneron.com/en/working-at-regeneron/total-rewards/.  For other countries’ specific benefits, please speak to your recruiter.Please be advised that at Regeneron, we believe we are most successful and work best when we are together.  For that reason, many of Regeneron’s roles are required to be performed on-site. Please speak with your recruiter and hiring manager for more information about Regeneron’s on-site policy and expectations for your role and your location.  

Regeneron is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or belief (or lack thereof), sex, nationality, national or ethnic origin, civil status, age, citizenship status, membership of the Traveler community, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, familial status, marital or registered civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, gender identity, gender reassignment, military or veteran status, or any other protected characteristic in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. The Company will also provide reasonable accommodation to the known disabilities or chronic illnesses of an otherwise qualified applicant for employment, unless the accommodation would impose undue hardship on the operation of the Company's business.

For roles in which the hired candidate will be working in the U.S., the salary ranges provided are shown in accordance with U.S. law and apply to U.S.-based positions.  For roles which will be based in Japan and/or Canada, the salary ranges are shown in accordance with the applicable local law and currency. If you are outside the U.S, Japan or Canada, please speak with your recruiter about salaries and benefits in your location.

Please note that certain background checks will form part of the recruitment process.  Background checks will be conducted in accordance with the law of the country where the position is based, including the type of background checks conducted. The purpose of carrying out such checks is for Regeneron to verify certain information regarding a candidate prior to the commencement of employment such as identity, right to work, educational qualifications etc.