A product manager is a position that is not so easy to occupy, since today it is a key one in the pharmaceutical business. The person who works as a product manager depends on how a particular product will look in the eyes of consumers (patients, doctors, pharmacists).
Among the main responsibilities of a product manager are monitoring the existing market, analyzing competitors, working on the assortment policy of a particular product, pricing and promotion of products. Such specialists conduct trainings, presentations, participate in conferences and seminars, conduct product knowledge training, develop promotional materials, draw up a budget for marketing events and conduct the latter. In addition, the product manager is responsible for supply chain planning and control, as well as the formation of procurement policies.
According to available data, the demand for such specialists is constantly growing, so it will not be difficult for people with the appropriate education and skills to get a job in their specialty.
It is interesting that today the greatest demand for product management specialists takes place in small companies.
A potential product manager must meet a number of requirements. Here is a list of them:
1) The presence of higher medical or pharmaceutical education and knowledge of the basics of marketing.
2) Experience in a similar position. For example, working as a marketing manager or brand manager.
3) Knowledge of a foreign language is desirable. In most cases, this language is English.
4) Experience in market analysis, developing a product promotion strategy and evaluating the effectiveness of this development.
5) Experience in planning and implementing any marketing activities.
6) Experience in conducting business negotiations.
7) Experience with a personal computer and basic office programs.
In addition, the product manager must have presentation skills, be sociable and creative, have analytical skills.
Some of the additional requirements, such as a driver’s license, work experience and the ability to go on business trips, are sometimes added to the above requirements for a candidate for a product manager position. As a rule, work is formalized. Some companies are training. Most pharmaceutical firms have career and career opportunities. Possible obstacles to the device for such a job - the lack of your own car or laptop.
Summing up, we should once again list the main responsibilities of the product manager.
Product Manager: Responsibilities
1) Carrying out the analysis of the market and competitors. Using the analysis result for further work.
2) Preparation of a marketing plan and its implementation.
3) Work on strategies for positioning and segmenting goods.
4) Creation and improvement of assortment policy.
5) Development and improvement of pricing policy.
6) Work on the procurement policy, control and planning of product supply.
7) Development of a sales plan, forecasting future sales, their constant analysis and control.
8) Development of strategies for promoting the product on the pharmaceutical market.
9) Preparation of information and advertising materials.
10) Planning, preparation and conduct of trainings, presentations, seminars and other similar events.
11) Participation in conferences, exhibitions and tenders.
12) Budgeting and other responsibilities.
In the vast majority of cases, work experience of two years or less, of one year is required. Companies that offer training can be contacted without any experience.