Marketing Manager Rare Diseases

Company Scope:Versalya Pharma is an affiliate of the Italfarmaco Group, it was founded to expand the group's presence in Africa and the Middle East. In line with its commitment to addressing unmet medical needs, Italfarmaco has recently expanded into the rare disease space with a focus on Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This strategic entry marks a significant milestone for the company as it aims to contribute to the management of this severe neuromuscular disorder.Overview:The Marketing Manager for Rare Diseases will be responsible for developing and executing the regional marketing strategy for the Rare Diseases portfolio across the region and focused markets. This role requires a blend of strategic vision and operational excellence to drive brand growth, optimize patient access, and strengthen the company’s leadership position in the rare diseases segment.The candidate will partner closely with cross-functional teams—including Market Access, Medical Affairs and Regulatory Affairs—to ensure integrated execution of brand strategies in alignment with global and local priorities.Strategic ResponsibilitiesDevelop and implement the regional Rare Diseases marketing strategy aligned with global brand plans and regional business objectives.Conduct in-depth market analysis to identify opportunities, threats, and unmet needs.Define and manage short- and long-term brand plans, ensuring alignment with business goals, patient needs, and healthcare ecosystem evolution.Lead portfolio positioning and competitive differentiation strategies for the product.Drive forecasting, resource allocation, and budget planning to ensure optimal investment and measurable business impact.Collaborate with Market Access teams to support regional access and reimbursement strategies, ensuring alignment of value communication and payer engagement materials.Collaborate with Medical teams to support regional awareness and educational programs, ensuring alignment of messages and scientific communications.Build strong partnerships with key opinion leaders (KOLs), patient advocacy groups, and scientific societies to enhance disease awareness and brand visibility.Tactical and Operational ResponsibilitiesDevelop and execute tactical marketing plans, including disease awareness campaigns, educational programs, digital initiatives, and congress participation.Create and adapt promotional materials and campaigns in compliance with regulatory and ethical standards, tailored to the region.Support the launch excellence process, ensuring readiness across markets.Work closely with countries based on the models to ensure effective execution of marketing activities and achievement of business objectives.Monitor performance metrics (KPIs) and market dynamics to evaluate campaign effectiveness and adjust tactics as needed.Ensure alignment between commercial teams, medical, and access functions to deliver cohesive, patient-centered solutions.Identify and develop local best practices and success models to be scaled regionally.Organize and lead team cycle meetings, ensuring effective alignment of objectives, knowledge sharing, and capability building across teams.Design and implement training programs for affiliate teams, enhancing disease knowledge, brand understanding, and tactical excellence.Collaborate closely with the Corporate Communications departments to align external and internal communication strategies, including public relations, media engagement, and patient advocacy communication.Qualifications and Experience::Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy, Medicine, Life Sciences, or Business; an MBA or postgraduate qualification is preferred.7–10 years of progressive pharmaceutical/biotechnology experience, including at least 3 years in marketing of specialty care products is mandatory.Experience in rare diseases is preferred.Proven track record in multi-country marketing within the region.Demonstrated success in product launches, lifecycle management, and cross-functional collaboration.Strong understanding of market access, regulatory, and reimbursement environments in MENA.Experience in developing and executing digital and omnichannel strategies.Fluency in English and Arabic required; French proficiency is an advantage.Position open only to candidates currently based in Dubai. No relocation support provided.Key Competencies and Attributes:Strategic and analytical thinker with a results-oriented mindset.Strong leadership and collaboration skills across matrix and multicultural environments.Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management capabilities.High standards of integrity, compliance, and ethical conduct.Entrepreneurial approach with strong organizational agility.Passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients affected by rare and underserved diseases.Contact email : rd@versalya.com