Head of Market Access

Are you passionate about changing the lives of people living with rare diseases? Do you have extensive experience within National and Regional Market Access from the Pharmaceutical or Biotech industry in Italy? If so, now is your chance to join Ascendis Pharma as our new Head of Market Access, Italy Ascendis Pharma is a global, fast-growing biopharmaceutical company driven by our core values: Patients, Science and Passion. Using our innovative TransCon® technology platform, we develop best-in‑class therapies addressing unmet needs in rare endocrinology and oncology. With headquarters in Denmark and offices across Europe and the United States, we are committed to making a meaningful difference for patients worldwide. The Role As a key member of the Ascendis Pharma team, you will play a crucial role in influencing the direction of the company and help us launch new therapies with potential for best‑in‑class efficacy, safety, and/or convenience. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a fast‑paced environment, collaborating with cross‑functional, global teams working together to achieve extraordinary results. You will be joining the commercial team in Milan, and report directly to General Manager – Italy. Please notice that extensive travel is expected in order to deliver business objectives. Your key responsibilities will be: Leading as a hands‑on driver of rigorous Commercial and Market Access fundamentals, execution, and metrics, setting high performance standards and meeting or exceeding sales goals across the business. Italy Country pricing, reimbursement and access mechanisms both nationally and regionally. Leading all national and regional stakeholder engagement related to ensuring reimbursed access for all appropriate patients in need of our best‑in‑class rare disease drugs. Leading and stimulating cross‑functional peers in the country leadership team and supporting colleagues in the field, adapting quickly to launch needs/adjustments and navigating a dynamic and evolving market. Owning the Italy Market Access and Health Politics plan that aligns to organizational goals, leveraging analysis and interpretation of general economic, industry, marketing, and sales data. Working closely with the European and Global teams to help establish a best‑in‑class global commercial team to drive business fundamentals and launches. Establishing, safeguarding, and strengthening the reputation of Ascendis with KOLs, regulators, payers, patient organizations, and other relevant stakeholders. Identifying and managing the Regional Market Access hurdles through thorough analysis, out‑of‑the‑box thinking, and collaboration with cross‑functional teams including the field teams Qualifications and Skills: You hold a relevant academic degree – a scientific or commercial master’s degree, PhD or similar, preferably with Health Economics included – and minimum 8-10 years of experience from Market Access and Health Politics roles from a growth company environment. You are fluent in Italian and have English language proficiency. Furthermore, you have: Solid experience leading pricing and reimbursement dossier preparations and negotiations Significant experience leading regional access activities Deep knowledge of the healthcare dynamics and a strong network among key payer stakeholders in Italy Ability and willingness to thrive in a green‑field/start‑up‑biotech environment Experience in building and leading intercultural, cross‑functional teams and building positive relationships between local, regional, and global organizations. Demonstrated ability to help people grow in a diverse and international environment. Experience in rare diseases and/or endocrinology therapeutic area Key Competencies: You are a strong team player, goal-oriented, and have a can‑do attitude.You are an ambitious and holistic‑thinking leader who possesses an entrepreneurial mindset and thrives in an informal, open environment where innovation and change are key. To succeed in this role, we also expect you to have excellent stakeholder management skills and a strong ability to build alliances at all organizational levels, both internally and with external partners. You think on your feet and maintain your composure when things move quickly Apply now. Applications will be evaluated when received, so please apply as soon as possible. All applications must be submitted in English and are treated confidentially. #J-18808-Ljbffr