Professional Cert in Pharmaceutical Business Management Launched

Spearheaded by the Pharmaceutical Managers' Institute (PMI), a new professional certificate in Pharmaceutical Business Management was unveiled at the PMI 20th AGM. This accredited programme, which will be run in association with UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School, will commence in October 2009.

'The PMI is delighted to announce the introduction of this new qualification in pharmaceutical business management which marks a new departure for the Institute,' said John Molony, outgoing President of the PMI.

Currently, there is no formal academic qualification for the pharmaceutical industry in the area of business management. The programme is open to existing managers within the pharmaceutical industry who are seeking a formal qualification; pharmaceutical professionals working in the industry who are interested in moving into management roles and professionals from other industries looking to establish a career in the pharmaceutical industry pharmaceutical industry.

'UCD Smurfit School is delighted to partner with the PMI on this certificate,' said Dr Phillip Matthews, Director of Executive Education, at UCD Smurfit School. 'This is the first structured educational programme leading to a formal pharmaceutical business qualification. The pharmaceutical business model is evolving rapidly and the programme is designed to address critical commercial needs specific to the Irish market over the next five years.'

According to Martina Doyle, PMI President: 'The pharmaceutical sector has been a major player in the Irish economy for sometime. Despite the current global economic climate and challenges faced by the pharmaceutical industry, it will continue to remain an important force in economic activity as new innovative medicines and technologies continue to be developed and marketed.'

The programme is delivered over six weekend workshops and consists of six modules as follows:

• Pharmaceutical Market Dynamics
• Supply Chain Management
• Sales
• Marketing
• Finance
• Leadership

Participants should hold a primary degree or equivalent experience.  Application forms can be obtained from Cora Kelliher, Programme Manager, 01 716 8049/cora.kelliher@ucd.ie  and applications must be submitted to the UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.

The Pharmaceutical Managers Institute of Ireland (PMI) is an organisation with over 425 members representing over 80 pharmaceutical companies who employ in excess of 25,000 directly and many more indirectly.  The membership is made up of managers from sales and marketing, regulatory, corporate and public affairs, distribution, finance and many others.  The PMI is a 'not for profit' organisation and is funded by membership fees and sponsorship.

The role of the Institute is primarily educational but it also recognises and provides a social outlet for members.  The PMI works alongside other stakeholders in the Irish Pharmaceutical Industry to ensure its members have access to leading edge education.

Full details of the educational program and about The PMI can be obtained from the website www.thepmi.com.

Click here for more info about UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.