Head of Commercial Marketing

📌 Core Information 🔹 Job Title: Head of Commercial Marketing 🔹 Company: Merck Ltd. 🔹 Location: Seoul, South Korea 🔹 Job Type: On-site, Full-time 🔹 Category: Life Science 🔹 Date Posted: July 30, 2025 🔹 Experience Level: 10+ years 🔹 Remote Status: On-site 🚀 Job Overview Key aspects of this role include: 1. Growing sales by developing and executing SLS commercial marketing strategies and product positioning in Korea to achieve commercial targets. 2. Evolving marketing plans and activities based on understanding Korean market dynamics and trends. 3. Leading and managing the marketing team and related processes to deliver efficient and differentiated marketing insights through internal and external sales channels. 4. Collaborating with the sales team to ensure campaign activities align with the plan. ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong leadership skills, and the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams. 📋 Key Responsibilities 🔑 Marketing Strategy & Product Positioning in Korea Market - Provide strategic leadership and advice in relation to marketing strategy development and product positioning of SLS commercial portfolio through in-depth understanding of Korean market dynamics and customer behavior. - Design and implement best marketing campaigns and activities to enhance product positioning and gain market share in conjunction with global program and country strategy. - Close liaison with the sales team to ensure campaign activities align with the plan. ASSUMPTION: Success in this role requires a deep understanding of the Korean market and strong analytical skills to identify trends and opportunities. 🔑 Marketing Communication Management - Lead and oversee the delivery of communications and marketing strategies for all products, core products, and thematic campaigns by in-house or external suppliers. - Manage the process of marketing communications activities and campaigns to ensure corporate and specific messages are delivered at the right time and place. - Lead marketing communications in cooperation with the commercial service team. ASSUMPTION: Effective communication and project management skills are crucial for success in this role. 🔑 Marketing Excellence Management - Proactively identify opportunities to reinforce product positioning and segment programs, and address issues that need to be addressed through planned marketing plans. - Supervise pricing protocol process, including market price adjustment according to competitor landscape. - Monitor marketing budget spending to maximize efficiency through evaluation reports. - Develop and administer marketing database, including client and prospect information, mailing list applications, access to financial reports, etc. ASSUMPTION: Strong analytical skills and a data-driven approach are essential for success in this role. 🔑 Team Management - Lead and mentor with clear objectives and direction to build a high-impact, high-performance team. - Demonstrate self-starter marketeer qualities and build teamwork to achieve high impact and performance. ASSUMPTION: Strong leadership and team-building skills are critical for success in this role. 🎯 Required Qualifications Education: - Bachelor's/Master's degree in Life Sciences, Biology, Chemistry, or related fields (MBA preferred) Experience: - 15+ years of marketing and sales experience, preferably in the Life Science industry - Proven track record in product management and brand strategy - Hands-on experience launching new products in the Korean market, particularly Life Science-related products or medical devices Skills: - Building partnerships with KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders) and industry stakeholders - Business acumen and strategic thinking - Problem-solving skills and organizational development - Process management and market analysis - Digital marketing: Experience with SEO, social media campaigns, and data-driven strategies - Fluent in Korean and English (verbal and written) - MBA or related official license preferred 💰 Compensation & Benefits Salary Range: Competitive salary package based on experience and industry standards for the Life Science industry in South Korea. Benefits: - Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plans - Generous vacation and leave policies - Employee development and training opportunities - Attractive bonus and incentive structures Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with flexibility for remote work arrangements as needed. ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards and may vary depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience. 📌 Applicant Insights 🔍 Company Context Industry: Life Science and Healthcare Company Size: 10,001+ employees (Enterprise) Founded: 1668 (357 years ago) Company Description: - Merck is a leading global science and technology company headquartered in Germany. - The company operates in three main business sectors: Life Science, Healthcare, and Electronics. - Merck is committed to sustainability, responsibility, and innovative strength, with a focus on improving people's lives through its products and solutions. Company Specialties: - Pharmaceuticals - Chemicals - Technology - and Science Company Website: www.merckgroup.com ASSUMPTION: Working at Merck offers opportunities to collaborate with a diverse and global team, driving innovation and impact in various industries. 📊 Role Analysis Career Level: Senior-level management position with significant strategic and leadership responsibilities. Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the regional or global marketing director and may have functional or regional teams reporting to them. Work Arrangement: On-site, full-time position with potential for remote work arrangements as needed. Growth Opportunities: - Opportunities for career progression within the marketing function or broader roles within the organization. - Exposure to global marketing strategies and cross-cultural teamwork. ASSUMPTION: Success in this role can lead to increased responsibilities and career advancement within Merck. 🌍 Location & Work Environment Office Type: Modern, collaborative office spaces with state-of-the-art facilities and amenities. Office Location(s): Seoul, South Korea, with potential for regional or global travel. Geographic Context: - Seoul is the capital and largest city in South Korea, with a population of over 10 million people. - The city offers a vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse culinary scene. - Seoul is well-connected by public transportation and has a robust infrastructure, making it an ideal location for both work and leisure. Work Schedule: Standard office hours with flexibility for remote work arrangements as needed. ASSUMPTION: Living and working in Seoul provides a unique blend of cultural experiences and professional opportunities. 💼 Interview & Application Insights Typical Process: 1. Online application submission through the provided link. 2. Phone or video screening with the hiring manager or HR representative. 3. In-depth behavioral and situational interviews with relevant stakeholders. 4. Final interview with the regional or global marketing director. Key Assessment Areas: 1. Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. 2. Leadership and team management abilities. 3. Market analysis and competitive landscape understanding. 4. Cultural fit and alignment with Merck's values and mission. Application Tips: 1. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role. 2. Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions, focusing on your problem-solving skills and leadership experiences. 3. Research Merck's company culture and values to demonstrate your cultural fit. ATS Keywords: Marketing Strategy, Product Positioning, Market Analysis, Digital Marketing, Team Management, Leadership, Problem-Solving, Organizational Development, Process Management, Life Science, Healthcare, Pharmaceuticals, Korea, Seoul. ASSUMPTION: Success in the interview process requires a strong understanding of the role, relevant industry trends, and a clear demonstration of your skills and experiences. 🛠️ Tools & Technologies - Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) - CRM and marketing automation software (e.g., Salesforce, Marketo) - Data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) - Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello) - Social media management tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer) ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with relevant tools and technologies is essential for success in this role. 👔 Cultural Fit Considerations Company Values: - Curiosity: We are curious explorers, always seeking new knowledge and understanding. - Courage: We are courageous pioneers, taking bold steps to drive innovation and progress. - Ingenuity: We are ingenious inventors, finding creative solutions to complex challenges. Work Style: - Collaborative and inclusive team environment. - Data-driven and analytical approach to decision-making. - Focus on continuous learning and improvement. Self-Assessment Questions: 1. How do you align with Merck's core values, and how have you demonstrated these values in your previous roles? 2. How do you approach working in a diverse, global team, and what steps do you take to foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment? 3. Can you provide an example of a time when you had to adapt your work style to fit a new team or cultural context? ASSUMPTION: Success in this role requires a strong cultural fit with Merck's values and a willingness to adapt to diverse work environments. ⚠️ Potential Challenges 1. Market dynamics: The Korean Life Science market is highly competitive and dynamic, requiring constant monitoring and adaptation. 2. Regulatory environment: Navigating the complex regulatory landscape in the Life Science industry can be challenging and time-consuming. 3. Cross-cultural collaboration: Working effectively with global teams and stakeholders may present communication and cultural barriers. 4. Work-life balance: The demands of this role may require flexible working hours and occasional travel, potentially impacting work-life balance. ASSUMPTION: Addressing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a strategic mindset. 📈 Similar Roles Comparison 1. Role differences: This role focuses on commercial marketing strategy and product positioning, while similar roles may emphasize sales, product management, or market research. 2. Industry context: The Life Science industry is characterized by rapid innovation, intense competition, and strict regulatory requirements. 3. Career path comparison: This role offers a clear path to senior marketing leadership and potentially broader roles within the organization. ASSUMPTION: Understanding the unique aspects of this role and its industry context is crucial for making informed career decisions. 📝 Sample Projects 1. Product launch in the Korean market: Develop and execute a marketing strategy for a new Life Science product in the Korean market, including market research, competitive analysis, and campaign planning. 2. Brand repositioning: Lead a brand repositioning project for an established Life Science product in the Korean market, addressing changing market dynamics and customer needs. 3. Marketing database development: Develop and administer a marketing database for a Life Science product portfolio, enabling data-driven decision-making and improving marketing effectiveness. ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the diverse range of responsibilities and initiatives in this role. ❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview 1. Role responsibilities: Can you provide more details about the day-to-day responsibilities and priorities for this role in the first 30-60-90 days? 2. Team structure: How is the marketing team structured, and what are the key reporting relationships within the team? 3. Company culture: How would you describe Merck's company culture, and how does this role contribute to the company's overall mission and values? 4. Growth opportunities: What opportunities exist for professional development and career growth within this role and the broader organization? 5. Work-life balance: How does the company support work-life balance for employees in this role? ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful and insightful questions demonstrates your interest in the role and commitment to success. 📐 Next Steps for Applicants To apply for this position: 1. Submit your application through the [Application URL](https://careers.merckgroup.com/global/en/job/284620/Head-of-Commercial-Marketing-Life-Science-15%EB%85%84%EB%82%98%EC%83%81). 2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role. 3. Prepare for phone or video screening and behavioral interviews, focusing on your problem-solving skills and leadership experiences. 4. Research Merck's company culture and values to demonstrate your cultural fit. 5. Follow up with the hiring manager or HR representative after your interview, expressing your interest in the role and addressing any remaining questions. ⚠️ Disclaimer: This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.