Job Description

Vertex Pharmaceuticals operates at the forefront of scientific innovation and has successfully developed and commercialized multiple breakthrough medicines for Cystic Fibrosis (CF), sickle cell disease, beta-thalassemia, and moderate to severe acute pain. Vertex also has more than a dozen ongoing research programs focused on the underlying mechanisms of other serious diseases, including programs in kidney diseases and Type 1 diabetes.

Vertex is seeking an experienced Senior Director, US Market Access Strategy to lead market access initiatives for povetacicept (POVE) in IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) and future indications. This individual will guide the team responsible for developing and executing payer marketing, pricing, contracting, and evidence strategies that support POVE patient access while preparing for future label expansion opportunities. The role requires a leader who understands the complexities of specialty product commercialization and the evolving evidence expectations of US payers.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead POVE pricing and contracting strategies across current and future indications

• Oversee development of the POVE value proposition in partnership with HEOR

• Spearhead the Market Access launch readiness teams to ensure all US Market Access functional areas are aligned to strategy and all tactical elements are finalized in preparation for FDA approval

• Identify and address key product barriers to access and performance by applying advanced understanding of contracting and pricing strategies, payer analytics, and payer market trends

• Develop brand and market access strategies by payer channel to support patient access for POVE through the creation and delivery of impactful market access resources

• Implement a player-coach leadership style to achieve key access objectives while overseeing a team of 3-4 direct reports

• Lead the annual long-range planning (LRP) process and US Market Access brand planning for POVE in IgAN and future indications

• Develop, train, and implement the necessary promotional resources and reimbursement pull-through that support field account teams’ efforts with key customers

• Secure and oversee external vendors to deliver resources and strategic insights on time and within budget

• Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to assess impact of key initiatives

• Function as a trusted subject matter expert to internal colleagues and external customers

Knowledge and Skills:

• Deep experience in product commercialization and access strategy for launch products across benefits

• Previous contract strategy leadership experience in the pharmaceutical/biotech or healthcare industry

• Experience developing and articulating compelling payer value propositions

• Proven track record of meeting or exceeding access objectives and goals, both as an individual and as part of a team

• Expert knowledge of US healthcare system, including gov’t and commercial payers, policy, and regulatory environment

• Pharmacy and medical benefit experience

• Strong understanding of specialty pharmacy and distribution strategy

• Excellent communication skills with experience presenting to customers and internal leadership

• Demonstrated ability to successfully lead cross-functional teams, influence without direct authority, foster collaboration, and succeed in a highly matrixed environment

• Ability to perform in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple priorities simultaneously, and work effectively across cross-functional teams

• Preference for candidate with prior direct disease area experience

• Experience leading and managing a team

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field (advanced degree preferred)

• Typically requires 12 years of experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience

• Typically requires 5 years of supervisory experience

• Launch experience required

• Payer contracting experience preferred

Location: HQ (Boston –Seaport) on a hybrid schedule (3 days a week); relocation available

Pay Range:

Disclosure Statement:

The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations. From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.

Flex Designation:

Flex Eligibility Status:

In this Hybrid-Eligible role, you can choose to be designated as:
1. Hybrid: work remotely up to two days per week; or select
2. On-Site: work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex’s Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

#LI-Hybrid

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at [email protected]