Regional Operations Lead – Southeast Asia

About the role

Axios International is seeking a strong, hands‑on Regional Operations Lead to lead programmes, people and client relationships across Southeast Asia. Based in Malaysia, the role initially covers Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines, with the possibility of adding India or other markets as the regional scope evolves.

Key responsibilities

• Provide visible and accessible leadership to country, programme and operational teams across the region.
• Lead complex Patient Assistance Programs, Patient Support Programs and other patient‑access services, ensuring high‑quality, compliant and patient‑centred delivery.
• Set priorities, clarify responsibilities, coach managers and build a culture of ownership, collaboration and accountability.
• Act as the senior regional contact for key pharmaceutical clients and stakeholders, building trust and leading the resolution of significant programme or relationship issues.
• Represent regional needs within Axios, secure timely operational and functional support, and escalate unresolved matters constructively.
• Oversee regional performance, capacity, programme revenues, P&L, cost centres, operational risks and improvement actions.
• Identify opportunities to retain, strengthen and expand client relationships and collaborate with Business Excellence and commercial teams on new opportunities.
• Maintain direct exposure to field realities through regular regional travel and engagement with teams, clients, healthcare professionals, institutions and partners.

Required profile

• Substantial experience in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, patient assistance, patient support or patient‑access services.
• Proven leadership of teams and managers across multiple countries, business units or complex stakeholder environments.
• Strong senior client‑facing capability, with confidence to manage difficult discussions and build long‑term relationships.
• Judgement and presence to challenge constructively, advocate for regional priorities and secure action from senior and global stakeholders.
• A strong operational track record, including programme performance, budgets, resources, risk, quality and compliance.
• Ability to remain close to operational realities while leading through managers rather than solving every issue personally.
• Excellent written and spoken English and flexibility to travel regularly across the assigned region.