Case History 4
The Client
The European HQ of a mid-sized international (US based) pharmaceutical company.
The Need
Interim Director of Medical Affairs
The company is successful and fast growing with commercial operating subsidiaries in almost all European markets. One of the key therapeutic areas in which it operates is HIV, where it has a number of marketed products with other exciting molecules in late stage clinical development.
The marketplace is highly competitive and the role that Key Opinion Leaders and patient groups can play in the successful development and commercialisation of products is very significant. The contribution that Medical Affairs can make is also critical.
The company’s objective was to appoint someone to occupy this position on a permanent basis, but recruitment was slow given the need for a medic with genuine therapeutic area expertise, proven commercial awareness and an existing network of international KOL contacts.
With a new product launch planned within the next 12 months, a decision was made to appoint an experienced Interim Manager as soon as possible. Efforts to identify and appoint a permanent person would continue.
Assignment Dimensions
Initial duration of 3-6 months, although this could be extended if recruitment continued to progress slowly. Intensity likely to be 3-4 days per week.
Outcome
A shortlist of 3 experienced individuals was presented and reviewed with the client. One candidate who was a perfect fit with what was required was selected by the client for immediate interview. This proved positive and a second interview took place within the next 5 days. References were taken and terms agreed and the assignment began almost immediately.
Feedback from the client on the performance of the Interim Manager was very positive indeed and the assignment was extended twice.
The individual concerned turned down an offer of permanent employment with the Client preferring to continue his career as a professional Interim Manager.
