Head of Rare Logistics

This is what you will do

The Head of Rare Logistics is accountable for the end-to-end orchestration, performance, and continuous optimization of the global logistics network dedicated to the Rare Disease portfolio. Operating in a zero-tolerance environment for patient disruption, the role ensures reliable, compliant, and patient-centric delivery across highly complex, low-volume, high-criticality supply chains. The person will act as the single point of accountability for logistics orchestration, with direct responsibility for managing and governing external logistics providers (3PLs, transport partners, cold chain providers, and distribution networks).

This role focuses on orchestration of a complex external ecosystem, ensuring alignment of partners to deliver seamless, patient-centric logistics globally.

Scope of Responsibility (Rare Disease only)

• Global commercial distribution
• Interplant and CMO-to-network logistics flows
• Registration, validation, and launch batches
• Medical, regulatory, and commercial samples
• Patient-named / compassionate use distribution
• Device and combination product logistics
• Cold chain and specialty distribution
• Global transport, warehousing, and distribution network (RD-specific)
• Full governance of logistics service providers and partners

You will be responsible for

1. Logistics Strategy & Network Design

• Define and continuously optimize the global logistics strategy for Rare Disease
• Design a resilient, agile, and patient-centric distribution network

2. End-to-End Logistics Orchestration

• Act as the single orchestration point across the RD logistics ecosystem
• Ensure seamless integration with planning, supply, and commercial priorities

3. External Provider Management

• Own selection, governance, and performance management of all logistics providers
• Establish SLAs, KPIs, and continuous improvement plans

4. Control Tower & Risk Management

• Establish and lead a Global Logistics Control Tower
• Proactively identify and mitigate risks

5. Compliance & Quality

• Ensure full compliance with GDP and regulatory standards

6. Patient-Centric Execution

• Guarantee on-time, in-full delivery for patient-critical therapies

7. Organizational Leadership

• Build and lead a high-performing Rare Disease logistics organization

You will need to have

• At least 10 years experience in pharma/biotech logistics 
• Fluent English
• Strong experience managing global logistics networks and external providers
• Expertise in cold chain and specialty distribution
• Deep knowledge of GDP
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills

We would prefer for you to have

• Experience in the Rare Diseases field is highly valued 

Location

The position is open across Europe, with a preference for Northern Italy.