Alumni Spotlight is pleased to announce The Top 50 University Alumni in the Pharmaceuticals Industry of 2022. These individuals take part in one of the most interesting, meaningful, and life-changing fields. Their work enables products that help address some of today’s biggest challenges including an aging society, population growth, and the need to make sustainable and efficient medicines. Their research, development, and new medicines are a key asset to the global economy.
Among this year’s awardees are Bill Falstich, Vice President of Biopharma Hospital Supply of Pfizer, who is responsible for global end-to-end supply chain planning and orchestration for the company’s GEP Solid Oral Dose Products Portfolio; Kendra Rose, Vice President and Head of New Platforms, Ophthalmology, and Hemophilia at Bayer Pharmaceuticals, whose responsibilities include providing commercial input and evaluation for all pharmaceutical deals; and Tom McCubbins, Senior Vice President of Global Pharmaceutical Operations, who leads the company’s manufacturing network consisting of 15 sites located in 12 countries.
We acknowledge these individuals for their dedication to the advancement of our society’s health and wellbeing. Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of The Top 50 University Alumni in the Pharmaceuticals Industry of 2022.
1. Teri Lawver
Worldwide Vice President of Immunology, Johnson & Johnson
Duke University
Teri Lawver is the Worldwide Vice President of Immunology of Johnson & Johnson. She first joined the company in 2002 as senior director of gastroenterology marketing of Centocor. Johnson & Johnson (J&J) is a multinational corporation founded in 1886 that develops medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and consumer packaged goods. It is one of the world's most valuable companies. In her role, Lawver has worldwide end-to-end responsibility for the company’s $16B+ Immunology Portfolio and Pipeline.
Lawver has more than 25 years of experience. Since joining J&J in 2002 at Centocor, she has held several leadership and executive positions across the company and has delivered an above-market performance in each of the five Johnson & Johnson business units she has led. Prior to joining Johnson & Johnson, Lawver was an associate principal at McKinsey & Company and a leader in the Firm’s Global Healthcare practice. She began her career as a derivatives analyst at Bloomberg Financial Markets, LLP. Lawver earned an MBA from Duke University - The Fuqua School of Business and an undergraduate degree from Georgetown University.
2. Bill Falstich
VP of Biopharma Hospital Supply, Pfizer
Penn State University
Bill Falstich is the Vice President of Biopharma Hospital Supply of Pfizer. Established in 1849, Pfizer Inc. is a leading research-based pharmaceutical and biotechnology corporation headquartered in New York City. It develops and produces medicines and vaccines for immunology, oncology, cardiology, endocrinology, and neurology. The company has several blockbuster drugs or products that each generate more than US$1 billion in annual revenues. Pfizer applies science and its global resources to deliver innovative therapies that extend and significantly improve lives. Falstich has over 21 years of experience. He began his career in 2001.
Falstich graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with an MBA focused in technology, and from Penn State University with an undergraduate degree in business logistics.
3. Michael Braun
SVP of Immunology & Fibrosis, Bristol Myers Squibb
University of Michigan
Michael Braun is the Senior Vice President of Immunology and Fibrosis for Bristol Myers Squibb. He first joined the company in 2022. At Bristol Myers Squibb, they work every day to transform patients’ lives through science. They have built a sustainable pipeline of potential therapies and are leveraging translational medicine and data analytics to understand how they can best deliver the right medicine to the right patient, at the right time, to achieve the best outcome. Braun has nearly 23 years of experience. He began his career in 1999.
Before joining Bristol Myers Squibb, Braun was a VP and head of immunology, hepatology, and dermatology at Novartis, and before that, a senior manager of targeting and alignments at Pharmacia. Earlier in his career he worked with ZS Associates as a business associate. Braun graduated from the University of Michigan with an undergraduate degree in economics.
4. Kendra Rose
VP & Head of New Business Development, Bayer Pharmaceuticals
Stanford University
Kendra Rose began her professional career 24 years ago. Today, she is the Vice President and Head of New Platforms, Ophthalmology and Hemophilia at Bayer Pharmaceuticals. Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the Life Science fields of health care and agriculture. Its products and services are designed to benefit people and improve their quality of life. At the same time, it aims to create value through innovation, growth, and high earning power. Its products help address some of today’s biggest challenges, including global population growth, an aging society and the need to make efficient and sustainable use of natural resources.
Rose first got her start in 1998 as a senior scientist at Johnson & Johnson. From there, she went on to Cordis Corp, before eventually rising to become the global brand director of Entresto at Novartis, her most recent position prior to joining Bayer Pharmaceuticals. Rose graduated from Stanford University with a PhD in chemistry, from The Wharton School with an MBA in marketing and operations, and from Ohio Wesleyan University with an undergraduate degree in chemistry.
5. Paul Rowe
VP & Head of Global Medical Immunology, Sanofi
Harvard University
Paul Rowe is the Vice President and Head of Global Medical of Immunology of Sanofi. He first joined the company in 2015. Sanofi provides potentially life-changing treatment options and life-saving vaccine protection to millions of people globally. In his role, Rowe is responsible for the management and supervision of the Global Medical Immunology Franchise primarily encompassing respiratory, rheumatology, and dermatology and other related therapeutic areas and sub-specialties. He provides oversight of overall Immunology Franchise medical strategy encompassing key areas across medical education, communication, engagement, and late phase clinical trial data generation activities. Rowe has over a decade of research experience spanning from preclinical to late phase drug development programs, primarily in respiratory medicine, at several large pharma companies.
Previously, Rowe was a senior medical director of medical research & strategy at Daiichi Sankyo where he served as senior physician responsible on the therapy brand team and led medical teams in pre-launch, launch, and post-launch functions and activities. Before that, Rowe was a director of clinical development for respiratory at Forest Research Institute. Earlier in his career he worked with Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals in medical affairs for national medicine and field-based medicine. Rowe has authored and co-authored several publications in respiratory medicine (COPD) and is a frequent lecturer and speaker at professional society meetings, and educational forums. He is an active committee member of several national and international respiratory societies including the American Thoracic Society and European Respiratory Society and has a primary interest in promoting scientific research collaboration across government, academia, and industry. Dr. Rowe holds degrees and certification from Harvard University, the University of Rochester School of Medicine, Villanova University, and the London School of Economics.
6. Duke Fitch
VP of Pharmaceutical Patents, GSK
Harvard University
Duke Fitch began his professional career 22 years ago. Today, he is the Vice President of Pharmaceutical Patents of GSK. GSK is a multinational pharmaceutical company with global headquarters in London, England. It prioritizes innovation in vaccines and specialty medicines, maximizing the increasing opportunities to prevent and treat disease. At the heart of this is its R&D focus on the science of the immune system, human genetics and advanced technologies, and its world-leading capabilities in vaccine and medicines development. GSK focuses on four therapeutic areas including infectious diseases, HIV, oncology, and immunology including respiratory diseases. It aims to impact the health of 2.5 billion people over the next 10 years. Its bold ambitions for patients are reflected in new commitments to growth and a step-change in performance.
Fitch graduated from Temple University - James E. Beasley School of Law with a JD, from Harvard University with a PhD in organic chemistry, and from the University of Pennsylvania with an undergraduate degree in chemistry.
7. Dale Pulczinski
Vice President, Novo Nordisk
The George Washington University
Dale Pulczinski is a Vice President for Novo Nordisk, a leading global healthcare company, founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark. Their purpose is to drive change to defeat diabetes and other serious chronic diseases such as obesity and rare blood and endocrine disorders. Novo Nordisk is doing so by pioneering scientific breakthroughs, expanding access to the medicines, and working to prevent and ultimately cure disease. Novo Nordisk employs about 49,300 people in 80 countries and markets its products in around 170 countries. Pulczinski has 25 years of experience. He began his career in 1997.
Before joining Novo Nordisk, Pulczinski was an assistant professor of naval science with the U.S. Navy. Pulczinski graduated from The George Washington University with an MEM in engineering management and from Arizona State University with an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering.
8. Stephen Lin
Chief Safety Officer, SVP, & Head of Global Pharmacovigilance, Sanofi
The Johns Hopkins University
Stephen Lin is the Chief Safety Officer, Senior Vice President, and Head of Global Pharmacovigilance of Sanofi. Sanofi is an innovative global healthcare company headquartered in Paris, France. It engages in the research and development, manufacturing, and marketing of pharmaceutical drugs principally in the prescription market, but also with over-the-counter medication. The corporation covers seven major therapeutic areas including cardiovascular, central nervous system, diabetes, internal medicine, oncology, thrombosis, and vaccines (it is the world's largest producer of the latter through its subsidiary Sanofi Pasteur). Lin is a biopharmaceutical industry senior executive with several years of experience in strategic planning, pharmacovigilance, R&D, and medical affairs.
Before joining Sanofi, Lin worked within the safety planning, evaluation, and reporting team at PhRMA. Earlier in his career he worked with Sanofi-Aventis Pharmaceuticals as an associate director of pharmacovigilance. Lin graduated from The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences with an MD, and from The Johns Hopkins University with an undergraduate degree in biology.
9. Tom McCubbins
SVP of Global Pharmaceutical Operations, Merck
Duke University
Tom McCubbins serves as Merck’s Senior Vice President for Global Pharmaceutical Operations. In his role, he is responsible for the end-to-end operations including manufacturing operations, technical operations, external manufacturing, planning, late-stage development, and network design. In addition to his global responsibilities, McCubbins serves as the chair for the Corporate Capital Committee responsible for approving all Merck’s capital spending. Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, is unified around its purpose to use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. For more than 130 years, they have brought hope to humanity through the development of important medicines and vaccines.
McCubbins is an experienced pharmaceutical executive who has held numerous senior level global positions at Merck in a broad range of areas including manufacturing operations, technical operations, external manufacturing, quality, late-stage process development in both human health and animal health manufacturing with extensive background in all aspects of manufacturing including active pharmaceuticals, solid dosage pharmaceuticals, sterile, biologics and vaccines. McCubbins earned a PhD in chemistry from Duke University and an undergraduate degree in chemistry from Catawba College.
10. Gerard O'Malley
VP & Global Franchise Head, AstraZeneca
University of Pennsylvania
Gerard O'Malley is a Vice President and Global Franchise Head of AstraZeneca. He first joined the company in 1999 as group product director of respiratory and inflammation. AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines. Its purpose is to push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines. It focuses on three main therapy areas including oncology, cardiovascular and metabolic disease, and respiratory, and it is also selectively active in the areas of autoimmunity, neuroscience, and infection. AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide.
Previously, O'Malley was a global project manager at Rhone-Poulenc Rorer, and before that, an international project manager at Hoechst Roussel Pharmaceuticals. Earlier in his career he worked with Hoechst AG as an exchange scientist. O'Malley earned a PhD in organic chemistry from the University of Pennsylvania, an MBA in marketing from Rider University, and an undergraduate degree in chemistry from The College of New Jersey.
11. Michael Grogan
Associate Vice President, Eli Lilly and Company
Harvard University
Michael Grogan began his professional career 20 years ago. Today, he is an Associate Vice President of Eli Lilly and Company. Eli Lilly and Company is an American pharmaceutical company headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, with offices in 18 countries. Today, the company is known best for clinical depression drugs Prozac and Cymbalta, and antipsychotic medication Zyprexa, though its biggest revenue drivers are diabetes drugs Trulicity and Humalog.
Grogan first got his start in 2002 as a senior scientist at Surface Logix, Inc. From there, he went on to Infinity Pharmaceuticals as an associate director in chemistry. Grogan graduated from Harvard University with a PhD in organic chemistry and from the University of Notre Dame with an undergraduate degree in biochemistry.
12. Ding Ming
SVP & GM of China Operations, Clinical Research Group of Thermo Fisher Scientific
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Ding Ming is the Senior Vice President and General Manager of China Operations at the Clinical Research Group of Thermo Fisher Scientific. Thermo Fisher Scientific is the world leader in serving science, with annual revenue of approximately $40 billion. Its mission is to enable its customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer. Ming is a trained chief executive with 20+ years of global pharmaceutical leadership experience in strategy, organization, and operations to innovate drug, medical device, diagnostics, biologics, and other therapeutic products.
Ming first got his start in 1997 as an associate director of medical nutrition at Novartis. From there, he went on to Pfizer, before eventually rising to become a VP and general manager of China operations at PPD, his most recent position prior to joining Thermo Fisher Scientific. Ming graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a PhD in animal health and biomedical sciences.
13. Eric Blomme
VP of Development Biological Sciences, AbbVie
The Ohio State University
Eric Blomme is the Vice President of Development Biological Sciences of AbbVie. He first joined the company in 2013 as director of integrative pharmacology, investigative toxicology, and pathology. Originated as a spin-off of Abbott Laboratories, AbbVie is a publicly traded biopharmaceutical company founded in 2013. Its mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. It strives to have a remarkable impact on people’s lives across several key therapeutic areas including immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, virology, women’s health, and gastroenterology.
Previously, Blomme was a director of investigative toxicology and pathology at Abbott. Earlier in his career he worked with Pharmacia as a pathologist. Blomme earned a PhD in veterinary pathology and pathobiology from The Ohio State University and an undergraduate degree from McGill University.
14. Shrikant Ramachandran
VP & Chief Information Officer, Boston Scientific
Penn State University
Shrikant Ramachandran is a Vice President and Chief Information Officer of Boston Scientific. He first joined the company in 2020 as VP of information technology. Boston Scientific works collaboratively to solve healthcare’s toughest problems by developing solutions that matter most to those suffering from debilitating and life-threatening conditions and the healthcare professionals who provide their care. Across over 100 countries, it helps providers to deliver care more effectively by reducing costs, increasing efficiencies, and expanding access to care in order to help more people in more places live longer, healthier lives.
Previously, Ramachandran was a global VP and CIO at Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals and before that, a chief information officer at Synthes. Earlier in his career he worked with STMicroelectronics as an engineer. Ramachandran earned an MBA from Penn State University and an undergraduate degree from the University of Canterbury.
15. Justin Pawlik
VP of Quality & Regulatory Affairs, Cardinal Health
University of Illinois Chicago
Justin Pawlik is the Vice President of Quality and Regulatory Affairs for the Pharmaceutical Segment of Cardinal Health. Cardinal Health is a distributor of pharmaceuticals, a global manufacturer, and distributor of medical and laboratory products, and a provider of performance and data solutions for healthcare facilities. With operations in more than 30 countries and approximately 44,000 employees globally, Cardinal Health is essential to care. Pawlik has 26 years of experience. He began his career in 1996.
Before joining Cardinal Health, Pawlik was a senior director of quality of pharma & advanced surgery at Baxter International Inc and before that a senior director of quality at Glanbia Performance Nutrition. Earlier in his career he worked with FirstCom as an assistant scientist and lab technician. Pawlik graduated from Lake Forest Graduate School of Management with an MBA and from the University of Illinois Chicago with an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering.
16. Daniel Asch
VP of Oncology, Boehringer Ingelheim
Duke University
Daniel Asch began his professional career nearly 29 years ago. Today, he is the Vice President of Oncology for Boehringer Ingelheim. Boehringer Ingelheim is one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies, and the largest private one. It is working on breakthrough therapies that transform lives, today and for generations to come. As a leading research-driven biopharmaceutical company, it creates value through innovation in areas of high unmet medical need. In his roles, Asch leads a commercial team of 70 people including sales, national accounts, and marketing teams.
Asch first got his start in 1993 as a product manager at Forest Pharmaceuticals. From there, he went on to Sanofi, before eventually rising to become a general manager at Eisai Limited - Canada, his most recent position prior to joining Boehringer Ingelheim. Asch graduated from Columbia Business School with an MBA and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in marketing management.
17. Mark Hagler
SVP & Head of Ophthalmics, Oncology & Radiopharma, Sun Pharma
The Johns Hopkins University
Mark Hagler began his professional career 18 years ago. Today, he is the Senior Vice President and Head of Ophthalmics, Oncology, & Radiopharma for Sun Pharma, the world's fourth largest specialty generic pharmaceutical company and number one in India. The company provides high-quality, affordable medicines trusted by customers and patients in over 100 countries. Sun Pharma's global presence is supported by more than 40 manufacturing facilities spread across 5 continents, R&D centers across the globe, and a multi-cultural workforce comprising over 50 nationalities. Sun Pharma fosters excellence through innovation supported by strong R&D capabilities comprising around 2,000 scientists and R&D investments of over 7-8% of annual revenues.
Hagler first got his start in 2004 as an oncology specialist and product manager at Abraxis Bioscience. From there, he went on to Novartis Oncology before eventually rising to become a head of oncology marketing at Ipsen, his most recent position prior to joining Sun Pharma. Hagler graduated from The Johns Hopkins University with an MBA in finance and from United States Naval Academy with an undergraduate degree in engineering.
18. Karen Lewis
VP of Clinical Development, Syneos Health
The Johns Hopkins University
Karen Lewis is the Vice President of Clinical Development for Syneos Health. She first joined the company in 2016. Syneos Health is the only biopharmaceutical solutions organization purpose-built to accelerate customer success. The company leads with a product development mindset, strategically integrating clinical development, medical affairs, and commercial capabilities to address modern market realities. They bring together approximately 28,000 minds, across more than 110 countries, with a deep understanding of patient and physician behaviors and market dynamics.
Previously, Lewis was an executive director of scientific and strategic development at Akesis and before that, an executive director of clinical operations at Salix Pharmaceuticals. Earlier in her career she worked with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a laboratory technician. Lewis earned an MS in biotechnology from The Johns Hopkins University and an undergraduate degree in chemistry from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
19. Lee James
VP of US Medical Oncology, Bristol Myers Squibb
Cornell University
Lee James is the Vice President of US Medical Oncology of Bristol Myers Squibb, a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. In his role, James’ goal is to improve both the quantity and quality of life of patients with cancer by helping bridge the gap between basic science and clinical medicine. He has over 20 years of experience. He began his career in 2002.
Before joining Bristol Myers Squibb, James was an asset team lead of oncology late phase strategy and development at Pfizer, and before that, a medical oncologist and hematologist at Queens Medical Associates, PC. Earlier in his career he served with the University of Chicago Hospitals as a resident. James graduated from the University of Washington with a PhD in molecular and cellular biology, from the University of Washington - School of Medicine with an MD, and from Cornell University with an undergraduate degree in microbiology.
20. Sanjida Chowdhury
VP & Chief Compliance Officer, Fresenius Kabi
Boston University
Sanjida Chowdhury is a Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of North America for Fresenius Kabi, a global health care company that specializes in lifesaving medicines and medical technologies for infusion, transfusion, and clinical nutrition. The expansive portfolio of products and global network of science and manufacturing centers provide essential support for the care of critical and chronically ill patients. Fresenius Kabi is part of Fresenius SE, a health care group with more than 100 years of experience in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and life sciences. Chowdhury has 21 years of experience. She began her career in 2001.
Before joining Fresenius Kabi, Chowdhury was a manager at KPMG and before that, a business analyst at Intrasphere Technologies. Earlier in her career she worked with Accenture as an associate consultant. Chowdhury graduated from Boston University with an MS in biomedical engineering and from Illinois Institute of Technology with an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering.
21. Elyse Newton
VP & Head of Pharmaceutical Sciences Operations & Partnerships, Takeda
Dartmouth College
Elyse Newton is the Vice President and Head of Pharmaceutical Sciences Operations & Partnerships for Takeda. Takeda is a research-based global company with its main focus on pharmaceuticals for metabolic disorders, gastroenterology, neurology, inflammation, as well as oncology through its independent subsidiary, Takeda Oncology. As the largest pharmaceutical company in Asia, and one of the top 20 largest pharmaceutical companies in the world by revenue, Takeda is committed to strive towards better health for patients worldwide through leading innovation in medicine. Takeda's ethical drugs are marketed in around 100 countries worldwide. Newton has 27 years of experience. She began her career in 1995.
Before joining Takeda, Newton was the head of operations of global oncology at Genzyme, and before that, an associate director at Biogen. Earlier in her career she worked with Associated Industries of Massachusetts as a research associate. Newton graduated from the University of Michigan Business School with an MBA and from Dartmouth College with an undergraduate degree in economics.
22. Samrat Sisodia
VP of Regulatory Affairs, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals
Monarch University - Switzerland
Samrat Sisodia is the Vice President of Regulatory Affairs for North America with Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, a leading global innovative pharmaceutical company committed to enriching lives worldwide. Glenmark Pharmaceuticals vision is to discover possibilities and make lives of patients better across the globe by developing cures for unmet medical needs.
Sisodia first got his start in 2007 as a regulatory affairs manager at Perrigo Company. From there, he went on to Upsher-Smith Laboratories before eventually rising to become a VP of scientific affairs at Breckenridge Pharmaceutical, his most recent position prior to joining Glenmark Pharmaceuticals. Sisodia graduated from Monarch University in Switzerland with a PhD in regulatory science, from Columbia Southern University with an MBA in marketing management, and from Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya with a master's and undergraduate degree in pharmaceutical chemistry.
23. Joel Rosenstack
Chief Commercial Officer, Hikma Pharmaceuticals
Stony Brook University
Joel Rosenstack is the Chief Commercial Officer of U.S. Injectables for Hikma Pharmaceuticals. He first joined the company in 2004 as a senior director of marketing. Hikma is creating high-quality medicines and making them accessible to the people who need them, helping to shape a healthier world that enriches all the communities. They have a broad product range and a growing pipeline of new medicines for treating a wide range of diseases.
Previously, Rosenstack was an executive director of marketing at Sandoz and before that, a VP of marketing at Parenta Pharmaceuticals. Earlier in his career he worked with Terumo as a product manager. Rosenstack earned an undergraduate degree from Stony Brook University.
24. Josh Schafer
SVP & General Manager, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals
Northwestern University
Josh Schafer is the Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Autoimmune & Rare Disease Business of Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals. As a leader in specialty pharmaceuticals, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals develop, manufacture, market and distribute innovative treatments for underserved patient populations within neurology, rheumatology, nephrology, pulmonology, and ophthalmology. The expertise also extends into acute and critical care hospital products, as well as the broad portfolio of generic prescription medicines and active pharmaceutical ingredients. Schafer has 28 years of experience. He began his career in 1994.
Before joining Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals, Schafer was a VP of global marketing strategy & therapeutic area head at Astellas Pharma and before that, a marketing director of oncology and specialty products at Takeda. Earlier in his career he worked with Pfizer in global medical marketing. Schafer graduated from Northwestern University with an MBA in marketing and finance and an MSc in biotechnology, and from the University of Notre Dame with an undergraduate degree in biology.
25. Craig Tendler
VP of Oncology Clinical Development & Global Medical Affairs, Janssen Pharmaceuticals
Cornell University
Craig Tendler is the Vice President of Oncology Clinical Development & Global Medical Affairs at Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson. He first joined the company in 2008. Janssen is working tirelessly to make that future a reality for patients everywhere by fighting sickness with science, improving access with ingenuity, and healing hopelessness with heart. They focus on areas of medicine where they can make the biggest difference, specifically in cardiovascular & metabolism, immunology, infectious diseases & vaccines, neuroscience, oncology, and pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Previously, Tendler was a VP of oncology and virology medical affairs at Tibotec Therapeutics, Inc. Earlier in his career he worked with Schering-Plough Research Institute as a VP of oncology clinical research. Tendler earned an MD from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and an undergraduate degree in biological sciences from Cornell University.
26. Brian McCormick
VP, Chief Regulatory Counsel & Head of Global Regulatory Policy, Teva Pharmaceuticals
Georgetown University
Brian McCormick is the Vice President, Chief Regulatory Counsel and Head of Global Regulatory Policy of Teva Pharmaceuticals, the global leader in generic medicine. Teva has been developing and producing medicines to help improve people’s lives for more than a century. Around 200 million people around the world take a Teva medicine every day. Along with the company’s established presence in generics, it has significant innovative research and operations supporting its growing portfolio of specialty and biopharmaceutical products. McCormick is a skilled regulatory and policy lawyer with 20 years of experience counseling research-based, specialty, and generic pharmaceutical firms, as well as innovative biotechnology and biosimilar businesses.
McCormick was previously a partner in the pharmaceutical/biotechnology practice of a leading firm. He graduated from Georgetown University Law Center with a JD, from The Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health with an MHS in health policy, and from Franklin & Marshall College with an undergraduate degree in government and history.
27. Rogelio Braceras
VP & Head of Global Medical Affairs, Jazz Pharmaceuticals
Harvard University
Rogelio Braceras began his professional career 20 years ago. Today, he is the Vice President and Head of Global Medical Affairs of Jazz Pharmaceuticals, a global biopharmaceutical company whose purpose is to innovate to transform the lives of patients and their families. Jazz They are focused on developing life-changing medicines for people with serious diseases, often with limited or no options, so they can live their lives more fully. By transforming biopharmaceutical discoveries into novel medicines, they are working to give people around the world the opportunity to redefine what’s possible.
Braceras first got his start in 2002 as a U.S. regional medical director at Sanofi. He later rose to become a VP & head of medical, his most recent position prior to joining Jazz Pharmaceuticals. Braceras graduated with an MD from the Universidad Central de Venezuela and from The University of Kansas with a degree in pharmacology and toxicology.
28. Edward Cox
EVP of Strategic Alliances & Global Head of Digital Medicine, EVERSANA
University of Florida
Edward Cox is the Executive Vice President of Strategic Alliances & Global Head of Digital Medicine of EVERSANA. He first joined the company in 2020. EVERSANA is the leading provider of global services to the life sciences industry. The company’s integrated solutions are rooted in the patient experience and span all stages of the product life cycle to deliver long-term, sustainable value for patients, prescribers, channel partners, and payers. The company serves more than 500 organizations, including innovative start-ups and established pharmaceutical companies, to advance life sciences solutions for a healthier world.
Previously, Cox was a CEO at Dthera Sciences and before that, a VP of commercial development at Apricus Biosciences. Earlier in his career he worked with Bio-Quant as a president & board director. Cox earned an MS in management and an undergraduate degree in telecommunication from the University of Florida.
29. Christopher Calabretta
VP of Supply Chain, Ancillare
Penn State University
Christopher Calabretta is the Vice President of Supply Chain of Ancillare. Since 2006, Ancillare has driven the creation and innovation of the Clinical Trial Ancillary Supply Chain (CTASC™), proving that well-planned clinical supply chains can help accelerate approvals of life-saving therapies for patients. Calabretta is a proven strategic business leader specializing in global supply chain, procurement, and operations. His vast experience lies heavily in supply chain management, direct and indirect procurement, manufacturing operations and ancillary clinical trial management across the pharmaceutical, medical device, consumer health products. Calabretta has over 32 years of experience. He began his career in 1990.
Before joining Ancillare, Calabretta was a VP of global indirect procurement at CommScope, and before that, a VP of global indirect procurement at Campbell Soup Company. Earlier in his career he worked with PepsiCo as a shipping supervisor. Calabretta graduated from Villanova University with an MBA and from Penn State University with an undergraduate degree in business logistics.
30. Vipan Sood
VP & Global and U.S. Head of Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Vifor Pharma
University of Illinois Chicago
Vipan Sood is a Vice President and a Global and U.S. Head of Health Economics and Outcomes Research of Vifor Pharma. Vifor Pharma is a global pharmaceuticals company. It aims to become the global leader in iron deficiency and nephrology. The company is a partner of choice for pharmaceuticals and innovative patient-focused solutions across iron, dialysis, nephrology, and rare conditions. Vifor Pharma strives to help patients around the world with severe, chronic, and rare diseases lead better, healthier lives. It specializes in strategic global partnering, in-licensing and developing, manufacturing, and marketing pharmaceutical products for precision patient care. Sood has 30 years of experience. He began his career in 1992.
Before joining Vifor Pharma, Sood was a VP of health economics and outcomes research at AbbVie, and before that a senior director of medical affairs and health economics and outcomes research at Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America. Earlier in his career he worked with Roche/Syntex as a director of managed care marketing. Sood graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago with an MBA in marketing and from Robert Gordon University with an undergraduate degree in pharmacy.
31. Gary Herman
SVP of Early Clinical Development & Experimental Sciences, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals
Harvard University
Gary Herman is an intuitive, collaborative scientist with extensive experience in leading early clinical and translational medicine functions across all therapeutic areas. He currently serves as the Senior Vice President of Early Clinical Development & Experimental Sciences of Regeneron Pharmaceuticals. Regeneron is a leading biotechnology company that invents life-transforming medicines for people with serious diseases. Founded and led for nearly 35 years by physician-scientists, its unique ability to repeatedly and consistently translate science into medicine has led to nine FDA-approved treatments and numerous product candidates in development, nearly all of which were homegrown in its laboratories. The company’s medicines and pipeline are designed to help patients with eye diseases, allergic and inflammatory diseases, cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, pain, hematologic diseases, infectious diseases, and rare diseases. Herman has 34 years of experience. He began his career in 1988.
Before joining Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Herman was a VP and head of early-stage development at Merck. Earlier in his career he worked with the University of California, San Francisco as a pediatric resident. Herman graduated from Harvard Medical School with an MD and from the University of California, San Diego with an undergraduate degree in biochemistry and cell biology.
32. Alan Wong
VP of Biomanufacturing, WuXi Biologics
Le Moyne College
Alan Wong began his professional career 35 years ago. Today, he is the Vice President of Biomanufacturing of WuXi Biologics, a leading global open-access biologics technology platform offering end-to-end solutions to empower organizations to discover, develop, and manufacture biologics from concept to commercial manufacturing. The company’s history and achievements demonstrate its commitment to providing a truly one-stop service offering and strong value proposition to its global clients. With total estimated capacity for biopharmaceutical production planned in the U.S., China, Ireland, Germany, and Singapore exceeding 430,000 liters after 2024, WuXi Biologics will provide its biomanufacturing partners with a robust and premier-quality global supply chain network.
Wong first got his start in 1987 as a research scientist at the University of Rochester. From there, he went on to Enzon Pharmaceuticals (Genex), before eventually rising to become a VP of manufacturing at Teruisi Pharmaceutical, his most recent position prior to joining WuXi Biologics. Wong graduated from Le Moyne College with an MBA in finance and from the University of Rochester with an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering.
33. Adrian Looney
VP & Chief Intellectual Property Counsel, Vertex Pharmaceuticals
Columbia University in the City of New York
Adrian Looney is a Vice President and Chief Intellectual Property Counsel at Vertex Phamaceutical's Assistant world headquarters in Boston. He leads a team of patent attorneys and professional staffers who provide IP support for the cystic fibrosis franchise with 4 commercial products. The areas of therapeutic focus are cystic fibrosis, pain, kidney diseases, sickle cell disease, duchenne muscular dystrophy, and type I diabetes.
Prior to joining Vertex. Looney worked as an IP leader at Pfizer in New York City. Previous to Pfizer, he was a patent agent and associate at two New York based intellectual property law firms where his practice focused on the procurement of patents, client consulting, due diligence and litigation for universities, biopharmaceutical and pharmaceutical clients. Looney is a registered patent attorney with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and is a member of the State Bar of New York. He received his JD degree from New York Law School, a MA, MPhil, and PhD in chemistry from Columbia University and an honors undergraduate degree in chemistry from University College Cork, Ireland.
34. John Joyal
VP of Biological Science, Moderna Therapeutics
Tufts University
John Joyal is the Vice President of Biological Science of Moderna Therapeutics. He first joined the company in 2013. Moderna is a pharmaceutical and biotechnology company that focuses on RNA therapeutics, primarily mRNA vaccines. These vaccines use a copy of a molecule called messenger RNA (mRNA) to produce an immune response. mRNA is not new technology, but Moderna is discovering new ways to use it to treat and prevent infectious, immuno-oncology, and cardiovascular diseases. mRNA medicines fight diseases in a different way than traditional medicine by prompting immune systems to create the tools to treat or prevent disease. Since its founding in 2010, the company has worked to build the industry's leading mRNA technology platform.
Previously, Joyal was a VP of discovery research at Molecular Insight Pharmaceuticals, and before that, a director of discovery research at Phylogix. Earlier in his career he worked with Praecis Pharmaceuticals as a director of cell biology. Joyal earned a PhD in biology from Tufts University.
35. Antony Loebel
President & CEO, Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc.
University of Washington
Antony Loebel is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. He first joined the company in 2010 as an executive vice president of clinical research and medical affairs. Sunovion is a global biopharmaceutical company focused on the innovative application of science and medicine to help people with serious medical conditions. Sunovion’s spirit of innovation is driven by the conviction that scientific excellence paired with meaningful advocacy and relevant education can improve lives. The company has charted new paths to life-transforming treatments that reflect ongoing investments in research and development and an unwavering commitment to support people with serious psychiatric and neurological conditions.
Previously, Loebel was a VP of clinical development at Dainippon Sumitomo Pharma America and before that, a senior medical director at Pfizer. Loebel earned an MD and an undergraduate degree from University of Washington.
36. Haixiao Chen
VP & Global Head of Pharmacovigilance & Risk Management, Endo International
Saint Joseph's University
Haixiao Chen is the Vice President and Global Head of Pharmacovigilance and Risk Management of Endo International. Endo International, headquartered in Malvern, PA, develops and markets high-value, quality branded pharmaceutical products for patients in need. Endo Pharmaceuticals’ specialty portfolio includes products for urology, men’s health, orthopedics, and endocrinology. Chen has 23 years of experience. She began her career in 1999.
Before joining Endo International, Chen was a program safety lead and SMT chair of TYK2i programs in immunology at Bristol Myers Squibb and before that, a VP and head of patient safety and pharmacovigilance at Shionogi Inc. Earlier in her career she worked with the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations as an associate project director in the division of research. Chen graduated from Zhejiang University with an MD, from Saint Joseph's University with an MBA, and from the University of Illinois Chicago with a master's in pathology, and an MPH.
37. Ashley Daugherty
Chief Scientific Officer, Nephron Pharmaceuticals
Emory University
Ashley Daugherty is the Chief Scientific Officer of Nephron Pharmaceuticals. She first joined the company in 2014 as a chemist. Nephron Pharmaceuticals Corporation is a mid-sized company that manufactures generic respiratory medications. NPC sells to many classes of trade, including, but not limited to, hospitals, pharmacies, long term care facilities, home care companies and mail order pharmacies. These medications are used in the treatment of asthma and COPD.
Daugherty earned a PhD in biomolecular chemistry from Emory University and an undergraduate degree in chemistry from the University of South Carolina.
38. Mary Beth McNerney
VP of Sales, Xeris Pharmaceuticals
Harvard University
Mary Beth McNerney is the Vice President of Sales of Xeris Pharmaceuticals. She first joined the company in 2017 as senior director of marketing. Headquartered in Chicago, Xeris Pharmaceuticals is a specialty pharmaceutical company that leverages novel formulation technology platforms to develop and commercialize ready-to-use liquid-stable injectables. The company is focused on creating medicines that are easier to use, including its Gvoke® glucagon injection.
Previously, McNerney was a director of market development and competitive strategies at Shire. Earlier in her career she worked with Baxter International as an associate director of marketing in immunology. McNerney earned an MBA from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management and an undergraduate degree in government from Harvard University.
39. Elizabeth Powell
Chief Compliance Officer & Head of Legal of Rare Disease, ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Stanford University
Elizabeth Powell began her professional career 32 years ago. Today, she is the Chief Compliance Officer and Head of Legal for ANI Pharmaceuticals. ANI is an integrated specialty pharmaceutical company focused on delivering value to its customers by developing, manufacturing, and marketing high quality branded and generic prescription pharmaceuticals. It focuses on niche and high barriers to entry opportunities including controlled substances, anti-cancer (oncolytics), hormones and steroids, and complex formulations. Its two pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities are capable of producing oral solid dose products, as well as liquids and topicals, controlled substances, and potent products that must be manufactured in a fully contained environment.
Powell first got her start in 1990 as an associate at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP before eventually rising to become a managing counsel and executive director of U.S. commercial & compliance at Merck. Powell graduated from the University of Wisconsin Law School with a JD and from Stanford University with an undergraduate degree in political science and government.
40. Anthony Dolan
VP of Generics, Taro Pharmaceuticals
University of Portland
Anthony Dolan is the Vice President of Generics for the U.S. Market of Taro Pharmaceuticals. He first joined the company in 2021. Taro Pharmaceutical is a research-based, international, specialty pharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures, and markets prescription and over-the-counter pharmaceutical products. Taro’s research programs and niche strategy have enabled the company to achieve gross margins that are among the highest in the specialty pharmaceutical sector.
Previously, Dolan was a senior director of national accounts at Accord Healthcare and before that a pharmacy VP of sales and marketing at Safe Rx. Earlier in his career he worked with Thrifty Payless Drug Store as a director of managed care. Dolan earned an MBA from the University of Portland and an undergraduate degree in pharmacy from Oregon State University College of Pharmacy.
41. Amrit Ray
Chief Patient Officer, Biohaven Pharmaceuticals
Dartmouth College
Amrit Ray is the Chief Patient Officer of Biohaven Pharmaceuticals. Biohaven is engaged in the identification and development of clinical stage compounds targeting the glutamatergic system. They obtained licenses from Yale University School of Medicine and Massachusetts General Hospital regarding intellectual property relating to the use of certain glutamate modulating agents in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. The mission of the company is to exploit advances over the past decade in the understanding of glutamate mechanisms involved in a variety of diseases. The company’s first drug candidate is being developed for orphan neurological disorders as well as treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. Ray has 20 years of experience. He began his career in 2002.
Before joining Biohaven, Ray was a global president and head of R&D for Pfizer and before that, an SVP at Johnson & Johnson. Ray graduated from The University of Edinburgh with an MD in medicine and surgery and an undergraduate degree in immunology, and from Dartmouth College with an MBA.
42. Michael Patterson
CEO of North America, Curium Pharma
Washington University in St. Louis
Michael Patterson began his professional career 25 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Executive Officer of North America for Curium Pharma. Curium Pharma is a global leader in nuclear medicine, providing life-changing diagnostics and treatment to patients all over the world. The company develops, manufactures, and distributes world-class radiopharmaceutical products with a renewed focus on cancer, exploring untapped potential for new innovation. The company's proven heritage combined with a pioneering approach are the hallmarks from which it provides life-changing diagnostics and therapeutics.
Patterson first got his start in 1997 as a district sales manager at Sanofi. From there, he went on to Covidien as a senior product manager of specialty pharmaceuticals. Patterson graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with an MBA and from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with an undergraduate degree.
43. Dannielle Appelhans
Chief Operating Officer, Rubius Therapeutics
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Dannielle Appelhans is the Chief Operating Officer of Rubius Therapeutics. She first joined the company in 2021. Rubius Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company pioneering a new era of cellular medicines. Its proprietary RED PLATFORM™ was designed to genetically engineer and culture Red Cell Therapeutics™ that are selective, potent and ready-to-use cellular therapies for the potential treatment of several diseases across multiple therapeutic areas. Rubius Therapeutics is realizing the power of red by creating red blood cells and transforming them into cellular medicines. With the company’s deep scientific know-how and dedicated team, it is focused on making its vision a reality, creating life-changing cellular therapies for patients with cancer and autoimmune diseases.
Previously, Appelhans was an SVP of technical operations and CTO at Novartis Gene Therapies, and before that, a global head of technical operations at Sandoz. Earlier in her career she worked with Eli Lilly and Company as a process engineer in lyophilization. Appelhans earned an MBA and an MS in mechanical engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Michigan.
44. Brian Schwartz
VP of Clinical Development, Chinook Therapeutics
University of Pennsylvania
Brian Schwartz is the Vice President of Clinical Development of Chinook Therapeutics. Chinook is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing precision medicines for kidney diseases. Its product candidates are being investigated in rare, severe chronic kidney disorders with opportunities for well-defined clinical pathways. Chinook’s lead program is atrasentan, a treatment for IgA nephropathy and other proteinuric glomerular diseases. In addition, the company is advancing CHK-336, a treatment for primary hyperoxaluria, as well as research programs for other rare, severe chronic kidney diseases. Chinook is building its pipeline by leveraging insights in kidney single cell RNA sequencing to discover and develop therapeutics with differentiating mechanisms of action against key kidney disease pathways. Schwartz has 21 years of experience. He began his career in 2001.
Before joining Chinook, Schwartz was a senior medical director of clinical development at Corbus Pharmaceuticals, and before that, a senior medical director of clinical development at Akebia Therapeutics. Earlier in his career he worked with Pfizer Pharmaceuticals as a director and research specialist in cardiovascular area. Schwartz graduated from Babson F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business with an MBA and from the University of Pennsylvania with an undergraduate degree in biochemistry.
45. Mingxiu Hu
Senior Vice President, Nektar Therapeutics
The George Washington University
Mingxiu Hu is the Senior Vice President of Nektar Therapeutics. He first joined the company in 2018. Nektar Therapeutics is a research-based development stage biopharmaceutical company that discovers and develops innovative medicines in areas of high unmet medical need. The company R&D pipeline of new investigational drugs includes treatments for cancer, auto-immune disease, and viral diseases.
Previously, Hu was a VP and global head of biometrics at Takeda Pharmaceuticals and before that, a head of biostatistics and programming at The Takeda Oncology Company. Earlier in his career he worked with Pfizer as an associate director. Hu earned a PhD in statistics from The George Washington University, a master’s degree in biology from Brown University and a master’s degree in statistics from Peking University.
46. Taylor Sandison
Chief Medical Officer, Cidara Therapeutics
Dartmouth University
Taylor Sandison began his professional career nearly 29 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Medical Officer of Cidara Therapeutics. Cidara is a clinical stage biotechnology company focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of novel anti-infectives.
Sandison first got his start in 1993 as a researcher at Howard Hughes Medical Institute. From there, he went on to The International School of Kuala Lumpur, before eventually rising to become a senior medical director at Merck, his most recent position prior to joining Cidara Therapeutics. Sandison graduated from the University of Washington with an MD and an MPH in epidemiology of infectious diseases, and from Dartmouth College with an undergraduate degree in biochemistry.
47. Joel Lippman
COO & Chief Medical Officer, Noven Pharmaceuticals
New York Medical College
Joel Lippman is the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Medical Officer of Noven Pharmaceuticals, a dynamic specialty pharmaceutical company engaged in the research, development, manufacture, marketing, and sale of prescription pharmaceutical products. The company is committed to developing and offering pharmaceutical products that meaningfully benefit patients, with a commitment to advancing patient care through transdermal drug delivery. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hisamitsu Pharmaceutical Co., the world’s largest manufacturer of transdermal patches, and they serve as Hisamitsu's growth platform for U.S. prescription pharmaceuticals. Lippman has 34 years of experience. He began his career in 1988.
Before joining Noven Pharmaceuticals, Lippman was a chief medical officer and VP of medical affairs at Ethicon and before that, a VP of clinical trials at Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceuticals. Earlier in his career he worked with Wyeth-Ayerst as a director of medical affairs. Lippman graduated from New York Medical College with an MD, from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health with an MPH, and from New York University with an undergraduate degree in biology.
48. Arthur Chan
VP of Medical Affairs, Tarsus Pharmaceuticals
University of Washington
Arthur Chan is the Vice President of Medical Affairs of Tarsus Pharmaceuticals. Tarsus is a biopharmaceutical company that aims to bring novel therapeutics to patients across a range of diseases with limited treatment options. They operate at the highest standard of integrity and are uncompromising in dedication to science and disease understanding. Chan is an innovative and creative medical affairs executive leader with 18+ years of industry experience in diverse therapeutic areas, specializing in ophthalmology.
Chan first got his start in 2001 as a product development engineer at EKOS Corporation. From there, he went on to INSIGHTEC before eventually rising to become a lead medical director of eye care at Novartis, his most recent position prior to joining Tarsus Pharmaceuticals. Chan graduated from the University of Washington with a PhD in bioengineering, from Saint Joseph's University with an MBA, and from the University of Alberta with an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering.
49. Thomas Templeman
Chief Technology Officer, Centessa Pharmaceuticals
Dartmouth College
Thomas Templeman began his professional career over 33 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Technology Officer of Centessa Pharmaceuticals. Contessa is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company with a R&D innovation engine that aims to discover, develop, and ultimately deliver impactful medicines to patients. Its programs span discovery-stage to late-stage development and cover a range of high-value indications in rare diseases and immuno-oncology. Centessa is led by a management team with extensive R&D experience, providing direct guidance to its program teams to rapidly advance its candidates from research through all stages of development.
Templeman first got his start in 1989 as a senior scientist at MilliGen. From there, he went on to Axovant Sciences, before eventually rising to become an SVP of pharmaceutical operations and quality at Nuvation Bio, his most recent position prior to joining Centessa Pharmaceuticals. Templeman graduated from Dartmouth College with a PhD in biology and from Santa Clara University with an undergraduate degree in biology.
50. Kenneth Newman
Vice President, Ionis Pharmaceuticals
Duke University
Kenneth Newman began his professional career 25 years ago. Today, he is the Vice President of Ionis Pharmaceuticals, a leader in RNA-targeted therapy, pioneering new markets and changing standards of care with its novel antisense technology. Ionis currently has three marketed medicines and a premier late-stage pipeline highlighted by industry-leading cardiovascular and neurological franchises. The company's scientific innovation began and continues with the knowledge, which fuels the vision of becoming a leading, fully integrated biotechnology company.
Newman first got his start in 1997 as an executive director at Forest Laboratories, Inc. From there, he went on to Boehringer Ingelheim, before eventually rising to become a chief medical officer at Verona Pharma, his most recent position prior to joining Ionis Pharmaceuticals. Newman graduated from UTHealth Houston with an MD, from the University of Cincinnati with an MBA in management, and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in biophysics.