Pharma Operations & Compliance Lead

 Job Purpose (Why does the job exist/What is there to achieve or deliver?)

This role is crucial to ensure the efficient and compliant operation of the wholesale pharmacy and pharmaceutical warehouse. This role focuses on regulatory compliance, inventory management, supplier engagement, and importation of pharmaceutical products. The candidate will oversee daily operations, ensure adherence to Rwanda FDA regulations, optimize supply chain processes, and support business growth by engaging manufacturers and expanding product availability.

 Key Responsibilities (Main Duties and responsibilities of the role)

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all pharmaceutical transactions comply with Rwanda FDA and other regulatory authorities’ guidelines.
• Stock Management: Oversee the procurement, storage, and distribution of medicines, ensuring proper stock control, expiry tracking, and quality assurance.
• Good Distribution & Storage Practices: Maintain proper handling, storage, and transportation of pharmaceutical products in compliance with GDP and GSP guidelines.
• Documentation & Record-Keeping: Maintain accurate records of controlled substances, incoming and outgoing stock, and supplier transactions.
• Quality Assurance: Conduct periodic inspections and audits to ensure all products meet safety and quality standards before distribution.
• Collaboration with Suppliers & Regulatory Authorities: Ensure timely importation, licensing, and approvals for pharmaceutical products.
• Training & Compliance Oversight: Provide guidance and training to staff on compliance, handling of pharmaceutical products, and industry best practices.
• Sales & Market Support: Work closely with sales and procurement teams to ensure efficient product availability, market needs assessment, and timely deliveries.
• Reporting & Data Analysis: Generate detailed reports on stock movements, sales trends, and regulatory compliance to support decision-making.
• Other Duties: Execute additional responsibilities as assigned to support business operations.

Technical /Professional Qualifications/ Experience

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy (BPharm) or higher.
• Licensed by the National Pharmacy Council (NPC) with a valid practicing license.

Experience

• Mandatory At least 3 years of experience in a wholesale pharmacy, pharmaceutical warehouse, or supply chain management within the pharmaceutical sector.
• Preferable: Experience in Good Distribution Practices (GDP), Good Storage Practices (GSP), and supply chain regulations is preferred.

Regulatory Knowledge & Compliance

• Strong understanding of Rwanda FDA regulations for pharmaceutical wholesaling, storage, and distribution.
• Familiarity with importation processes, controlled substance management, and quality assurance procedures.

Technical & Operational Skills

• Knowledge of inventory management systems and pharmaceutical stock control.
• Ability to oversee cold chain storage and ensure proper handling of temperature-sensitive products.
• Experience with pharmaceutical procurement and supplier coordination.

Soft Skills

• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and reporting skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.

 100-Days Smart Objectives.

• Implement a stock rotation system (FEFO/FIFO) to reduce expired and slow-moving products, reducing wastage by at least 10% by day 90.
• Submit any outstanding regulatory documentation and obtain necessary approvals within 30 days.
• Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for warehouse operations, order processing, and distribution within the first 60 days..
• Successfully process at least one importation order within the first 100 days, ensuring compliance with Rwanda FDA import regulations.
• Ensure the wholesale pharmacy and warehouse are fully compliant with Rwanda FDA regulations in the first 30 days

Application Link

The Application Deadline is 25th February 2025