Business Unit Director - Companion Animal

Job Title

Business Unit Director - Companion Animal (Animal Health)

Reports To

General Manager – Animal Health

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Companion Animal Business Unit Director is accountable for end‑to‑end commercial leadership of the Companion Animal (CA) business, including strategy development, sales execution, marketing excellence, financial performance, and people leadership.

This role drives sustainable growth, market leadership, and customer engagement across the companion animal portfolio (e.g., pets such as dogs and cats), ensuring alignment with regional and global Animal Health strategies.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

1. Business & Strategic Leadership

- Own and deliver the Companion Animal business strategy, including short‑ and long‑term growth plans aligned with Animal Health enterprise priorities.

- Lead annual priorities and execution plans, forecasting, and resource allocation to achieve revenue, market share, and profitability targets.

- Analyze market trends, competitive landscape, and customer insights to identify growth opportunities and portfolio optimization strategies.

- Ensure strong cross‑functional alignment with Regulatory, Supply Chain, Finance, and HR partners.

2. Sales Leadership & Execution

- Lead and develop the Companion Animal sales organization, including regional managers, key account managers, and field teams (structure may vary by market).

- Drive excellence in sales force effectiveness, territory optimization, KPI management, and performance coaching.

- Establish strong relationships with key customers (veterinary chains, strategic accounts,etc).

- Ensure disciplined execution of pricing, promotions, and trade strategies.

3. Marketing & Portfolio Management

- Oversee brand strategy, lifecycle management, and launch excellence for Companion Animal products.

- Ensure high‑quality execution of omnichannel marketing, digital engagement, and customer education initiatives.

- Partner closely with Technical Services and Veterinary teams to ensure scientific credibility and compliant messaging.

- Translate global brand strategies into effective local market plans.

4. Financial & P&L Accountability

- Full P&L ownership for the Companion Animal business.

- Manage budgets, investment prioritization, and cost controls to maximize ROI.

- Monitor financial performance, identify risks/opportunities, and implement corrective actions as required.

5. People Leadership & Capability Building

- Build a high‑performing, engaged, and compliant team through clear priority‑setting, coaching, and talent development.

- Lead succession planning and capability building aligned with Animal Health talent frameworks.

- Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and ethical conduct in line with company values.

6. Compliance & Governance

- Ensure all activities comply with local regulations, industry codes, and internal policies, including promotional and pharmacovigilance requirements.

- Act as a role model for integrity, quality, and responsible business conduct.

WHAT YOU MUST HAVE

Education

- Bachelor's degree in veterinary medicine, Life Sciences, Business, Marketing, or related field.

Experience

- Minimum 8–10 years of progressive commercial experience within Animal Health, Pharmaceuticals, or related industries.

- Proven leadership experience managing sales and/or marketing teams.

- Demonstrated P&L management and strategic planning experience.

- Companion Animal or veterinary market experience strongly preferred.