Distribution Manager (MEA/Molecular Diagnostics)

Job title: Distribution Manager (MEA region/Molecular Diagnostics/IVD)

Reports to: VP Sales EMEA

Location: Remote in Dubai with quarterly visits to Manchester HQ

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Salary & Benefits: Competitive Salary + Benefits Package

About Novacyt Group:

Novacyt is an international molecular diagnostics company providing a broad portfolio of integrated technologies and services, primarily focused on the delivery of genomic medicine. The Company develops, manufactures, and commercialises a range of molecular assays and instrumentation to deliver workflows and services that enable seamless end-to-end solutions from sample to result across multiple sectors including human health, animal health and environmental.

The Company is divided into three business segments:

Clinical: a broad portfolio of human clinical in vitro diagnostic products, workflows and services focused on three therapeutic areas:

• Reproductive Health: NIPT, Cystic Fibrosis and other rapid aneuploidy tests
• Precision Medicine: DPYD genotyping assay
• Infectious Diseases: Winterplex, multiplex winter respiratory PCR panel

Instrumentation: a portfolio of next generation size selection DNA sample preparation platforms and rapid PCR machines, including:

• Ranger Technology: automated DNA sample preparation and target enrichment technology
• genesig q16 and q32 real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) instruments

Research Use Only: range of assays and services for the life science industry:

• Design, manufacture, and supply of high-performance qPCR assays and workflows for use in human health, agriculture, veterinary and environmental, to support global health organisations and the research industry
• Pharmaceutical research services: whole genome sequencing (WGS) / whole exome sequencing (WES)

Description of role:

We are seeking a strategic, commercially driven Distribution Manager to oversee and expand our distribution and partnership network across the MEA region. This role goes beyond traditional sales management, encompassing full accountability for the Novacyt Group portfolio, strategic partner development, and regional market penetration. The successful candidate will be responsible for shaping and executing a high-impact distribution strategy, managing a growing network of partners, and driving commercial success across diverse markets. This role requires extensive travel and in-person engagement to build trust, accelerate growth, and ensure alignment with corporate objectives.

Key areas of responsibility:

• Full ownership of the Novacyt Group portfolio across MEA, including clinical diagnostics, genomics, and molecular testing solutions.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive MEA distribution strategy aligned with global commercial goals.
• Design and lead a Distribution Optimization Program to streamline partner performance, improve coverage, and maximize revenue.
• Identify, recruit, and onboard new distribution partners across multiple verticals and geographies.
• Manage and grow a complex network of channel partners, ensuring performance, compliance, and strategic alignment.
• Support distribution partners/SMEs in developing and refining their commercial strategies, including market entry planning, portfolio positioning, and sales execution.
• Lead strategic negotiations and close high-value commercial agreements with distributors and strategic accounts.
• Conduct quarterly business reviews and annual strategic planning sessions with key partners.
• Drive partner enablement through tailored training, sales support, and joint marketing initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Regulatory, Marketing, Product Management, and Supply Chain to ensure partner success.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and regulatory changes to inform strategy and identify new opportunities.
• Represent the company at key industry events, trade shows, and partner summits across the MEA region.
• Travel extensively (up to 70%) to engage with partners, customers, and stakeholders in priority markets.
• Demonstrate a strong track record in closing deals and consistently achieving or exceeding budgeted revenue targets.

Qualifications, Skills and Abilities:

• 5+ years commercial roles within life sciences, diagnostics, or genomics.
• Proven success in building and managing complex distribution networks across multiple countries.
• Strong understanding of MEA market dynamics, regulatory environments, and commercial models.
• Experience with CapEx and consumable sales into clinical, academic, and pharma sectors.
• Fluent in English; additional languages highly desirable.
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally up to 70%.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and influence senior stakeholders.
• Experience in designing and executing strategic programs for partner optimization and market expansion.
• Strong track record in closing deals and consistently hitting or exceeding budgeted revenue targets.

Closing Date:

Sunday 15th February, 2025

Equal opportunities:

Novacyt Group of companies provides equal employment opportunities for all current employees and applicants for employment. This policy means that no one will be discriminated against because of race, religion, creed, color, national origin, nationality, citizenship, ancestry, sex, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity, military or veteran status, genetic predisposing characteristics or any other basis prohibited by law.

Notice to Agency and Search Firm Representatives:

Novacyt Group of companies is not accepting unsolicited resumes from agencies and/or search firms for this job posting. Resumes submitted to any Novacyt Group of companies employee by a third party agency and/or search firm without a valid written and signed search agreement, will become the sole property of Yourgene Health and the Novacyt Group of companies. No fee will be paid if a candidate is hired for this position as a result of an unsolicited agency or search firm referral. Thank you.