Director, Trade Strategy & Operations
Job Description
We are seeking a Director, Trade Strategy & Operations to lead and own Kite’s US cell therapy trade strategy and distribution model across existing and pipeline products. This role will advance a customer-centric trade approach while ensuring a scalable and differentiated distribution experience.
Key Responsibilities
Define and drive Kite’s US trade strategy, including distribution model design, channel optimization, and access enablement
Lead enterprise-level strategic initiatives to enhance channel design, strategic direction, and long-term scalability in a rapidly evolving cell therapy landscape
Provide strategic guidance to senior leadership on trade-related risks, opportunities, and market dynamics
Establish and evolve KPIs and performance frameworks to assess and guide trade performance and strategic effectiveness
Oversee end-to-end trade operations, including order management, distribution execution, and issue resolution across channel partners
Drive executional excellence across trade operations through continuous improvement of processes and workflows
Ensure operational compliance with state licensing, distributor requirements, and applicable regulatory obligations
Lead Kite’s 3PL and distributor relationships, including strategic oversight, operational performance, governance, and long-term partnership strategy
Drive distribution network strategy, including assessing network effectiveness
Lead development and governance of trade policies and agreement frameworks, including distribution and ATC trade agreement structures aligned to distribution strategy, operational requirements, and compliance standards
Partner with Legal, Compliance, and Government Pricing to mitigate risk and ensure policy clarity
Lead updates and ongoing management of trade agreements with Authorized Treatment Center (ATC) networks, ensuring compliant ordering readiness for all ATCs
Basic Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree and 12+ years of experience OR Master’s Degree and 10+ years of experience OR Advanced scientific degree (MD, PharmD, PhD) and 8+ years of experience
Preferred Qualifications
10+ years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical/biotech trade, distribution, or market access with demonstrated leadership responsibility
Deep expertise in specialty distribution models, particularly in oncology, hematology, or cell therapy
Strong understanding of government pricing programs and regulatory requirements, including 340B, Medicaid, and ASP
Proven ability to define and implement enterprise-level trade and channel strategy and lead cross-functional initiatives
Experience managing 3PL and distribution partner relationships, including governance, performance management, and network optimization
Track record of driving operational and strategic improvements across trade systems, processes, and infrastructure
Experience leading trade agreements, policy frameworks, and compliance oversight in partnership with Legal and Government Pricing
Demonstrated leadership experience, including people management and leading large, cross-functional initiatives
Demonstrated ability to collaborate cross-functionally and influence decision making, strategy, and execution across senior stakeholders
Demonstrated high levels of emotional intelligence, situational awareness, and ability to build and influence a positive team culture
Significant experience in pharmaceutical/biotech trade, distribution, or market access, including ownership of trade or channel strategy