Shanon, Vice-President for Optum“s pharmaceutical strategy, highlights that the pharmaceutical industry thrives on both innovation and interpersonal dynamics. In an interview, she noted that critical thinking and effective communication have significantly influenced her career in the pharmaceutical field and in life.
Shanon remarked, “It doesn”t mean I”ve gotten it right every time. But they”re foundational tools in my toolkit.” She expressed gratitude for the guidance she has received from colleagues who exemplify these vital skills. “The secret sauce is the ability to articulate critique in a clear, coherent and balanced manner,” she added.
Effective communication, according to Shanon, is crucial for bringing insights to life, fostering trust, and enabling teams to negotiate solutions that enhance innovation. “Being able to translate technical insights into strategic business decisions is a differentiator, especially as pharma becomes more tech-enabled,” she explained.
Shanon emphasized the necessity of cultivating an inclusive culture where team members feel empowered to showcase their talents. She believes that part of her responsibility as a manager is to support her team”s development while also welcoming constructive feedback on her own performance. This reciprocal feedback is essential for fostering confidence among team members, which can significantly affect project outcomes.
In the fast-evolving pharmaceutical industry, Shanon noted the shift from traditional chemical entities to advanced biologic and gene therapies and an increasing focus on rare diseases. She pointed out that technology is transforming research and development processes, as well as logistics and patient access. With changing patient expectations and mounting cost pressures, pharmaceutical companies face the challenge of continually innovating.
Shanon also discussed the impact of U.S. policy changes on the pharmaceutical sector, highlighting the importance of understanding the evolving opportunities and challenges that arise with each administration. The skills needed for success in this environment have shifted, with strong analytical capabilities and a grasp of pricing models now deemed as essential as traditional clinical knowledge.
As technology progresses, Shanon mentioned the commitment to optimizing artificial intelligence and machine learning. This effort aims to enhance patient outcomes and streamline internal operations. “The ability to combine analytics with a deep understanding of the healthcare and pharma value chain is now a critical differentiator,” she stated.
Furthermore, Shanon underscored the growing need for professionals skilled in data analytics, AI, and machine learning, alongside traditional commercial and clinical competencies. As the industry continues to evolve, those who can merge commercial strategies with data-driven insights will hold significant value.
In conclusion, Shanon encouraged individuals in the pharmaceutical sector to master fundamental skills, manage their time effectively, and communicate concisely. She advocates for a dual approach to personal development: cultivating transferable skills while also establishing a niche expertise. “Always put your best foot forward, assume positive intent, and support your colleagues to the best of your ability,” she advised, emphasizing the importance of personal reputation and relationships within the tightly-knit pharmaceutical community.
