The Strategic Partnership Manager - KA & KOLs is a vital member of the scientific leadership team, defining and leading the national strategic scientific plan for Key Accounts (KA) and Key Opinion Leaders (KOL). This role directly supports the overall vision of establishing and enhancing partnerships with Canadian KOLs and KAs, promoting competency in nutrition for targeted veterinary professionals. This role serves as an ambassador of the Canadian business in expert circles and promotes Royal Canin products and services to Key Opinion Leader (KOL) groups and Key Accounts (KA) through partnerships and events.

What are we looking for?

Education & Professional Qualifications

• DVM (or equivalent) with active license in province of residence.
• Certificate in Adult Education and/or training experience highly desirable.
• MBA or other business credential an asset.

Knowledge/Experience

• 8+ years experience in small animal practice, teaching, and/or industry.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to thrive in an environment of rapid change.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills (oral and written).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Extensive PC skills (Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, +/- CRM).
• Valid driver’s license and access to reliable vehicle.
• Bilingual French/English, written and verbal is preferred.

What will be your key responsibilities?

Develop a strong and lasting relationships with Key Accounts (KA):

• In conjunction with KA managers, work to develop a strategic partnership plan to support key accounts for educational content and scientific knowledge related to pet nutrition. In conjunction with the KAM, ensure that educational and scientific resources are provided and that a partnership plan is developed to support the veterinary teams and drive nutritional recommendations.
• Work to develop a strong and lasting relationships with existing key account partners (veterinary groups, PSRO, KAs, KOL groups, organizations ex. Communivet, Antech), but also with potential partners.
• Be the first point of contact for the group’s leadership team and medical directors regarding scientific resources and educational content or work closely with KAMs depending on the partners.
• The educational activities offered can take any form including but not limited to the creation of training programs, video series, standalone initiatives (e.g. conferences, workshops, one-time meetings) offered virtually or in person. Partnership can also include support through access to specific scientific resources (e.g. NA program), support through sponsorship or knowledge sharing or enhancement of internal scientific activities or programs.
• Identifies and evaluates Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and communicates this data to the business.

Management of the Key Opinion Leader (KOL) Programs:

• Responsible for the forging strong and long-lasting relationships with Canadian KOLs. Actively seek opportunities for KOLs to share nutritional knowledge with KOLs and leverage their expertise to bolster our dietary recommendations.
• Spearhead strategic mapping of robust KOL programs, produce and coordinate general KOL communications, about launches or significant innovations.
• Responsible for timely and accurate payment of vendors, including new vendor creation and management.
• Relationship-building and networking with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) and other stakeholders
• Delivery of a student outreach program for communications to Colleges about Royal Canin-related events.
• Adheres to the Responsibility principle by liaising with Commercial and Legal teams in North American to ensure compliance to Mars governance processes.
• Serve as the Canadian representative for the Global Special Focus Group (SFG) for “KOLs”.

The Strategic Partnership Manager will support for Royal Canin Canada the following initiatives in various proportions according to individual role appointment and business or team priorities:

• Plans, develops, and pursues training plans, strategic partnerships, and agreements with selected KOLs and KOL groups according to business goals/objectives.
• Strategizes, coordinates, negotiates and communicates about mutual partnerships according to local and global business priorities.
• Adheres to applicable Quality and Food Safety Policies and Quality Management System requirements to ensure compliance to MARS standards.
• Commits to personal and professional development to advance industry skills and stay current in science, medicine and the veterinary profession.
• Ability to travel (up to 25% of the time) and otherwise be able to work from home effectively.

What can you expect from Mars?

• Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
• Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
• Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.