Why having the right mix of people is key

This month, as part of our Women in Pharma series, I spoke to Ulrike Graefe-Mody, global head of retinal health at Boehringer Ingelheim, about her career path and how female representation in the industry has changed over the past two decades. As Ulrike says: “I would be nothing without my high-performing, cross-functional leadership team. Having the right mix of people is absolutely key to me.” Read more on page 16.

Danny Buckland’s article looks at driving launch excellence in a volatile sector through precision, planning and creativity. As he says: “Sticking to routines and mechanisms that served well over previous generations of launch will not insulate against the fierce failure rate of the current, volatile climate infused with the often competing interests of patients, HCPs and healthcare systems set against the constant drum beat of digital change.” Turn to page 28 to find out more.

This year, ESMO’s flagship annual congress was held in Barcelona, where it offered new markers of hope for the future of oncology.  Susanne Bobadilla from VML Health writes: “The meeting provided the usual mix of breakthrough science, landmark data and the promise of better outcomes in a range of cancers. But, aside from the science, the most interesting trend from a marketing perspective was the clear change of emphasis in the language of cancer, with companies across the space reframing the narrative to focus on ‘living’ rather than just ‘surviving’.” Read more about this exciting congress on page 20.

This month we have a new column from the co-chairs of Communiqué, Catherine Devaney and Neil Flash. Catherine kicks off the new series with a look at how the role of innovation will shape the future of health communications and next month Neil will look at the rising importance of demonstrating impact in pharma communications. Turn to page 15 to find out more.

Next month, our November issue looks at improving patient pathways through health equity and accessibility. If you would like to make your voice heard on this topic, please get in touch at sales@pmlive.com

And don’t forget to book your tickets for the PMEAs, taking place at a black tie event in London on 21 November. Email ddevadiga@pmlive.com to find out more.

I hope you enjoy this issue!

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