Role Players 2024

A certified Independent Director and ESG specialist, Vaishali Iyer is an accomplished professional with a strong track record in strategic decisionmaking, driving operational excellence and narrating compelling stories. She has worked with some of the largest Pharma organizations v iz ., Cipla, Sanofi, Pfizer in Marketing followed by her stint in Advertising with Ogilvy and DDB Mudra in a head commercial role which spanned across Creative, Client Servicing and Strategy & Planning. She has a Bachelor’s in Pharmacy and Master’s in Marketing management. Currently, Vaishali is Country Head Communications, Patient Engagement and CSR at Novartis in India. She also holds additional responsibility of leading the Business Excellence and Execution function comprising of Strategy, Data, Digital, Sales force effectiveness and training, thereby driving business efficiency and innovation. Her three-decade experience includes developing and implementing marketing, communications, and advocacy strategies for brands across Healthcare and FMCG categories.

With a strong emphasis on fusing science, business and emotional intelligence, she has been pivotal in shaping the communication and patient advocacy role as a strategic enabler to business outcomes. She believes in elevating the stakeholder’s voice in decision making, driving performance through data and insight-driven communication strategies, and carrying out strategic interventions to strengthen brand and organizational reputation. Vaishali is a member of multiple industry forums - CII Public Health National Council and OPPI Communications council. Her achievements have been recognized through prestigious awards within healthcare and multidisciplinary forums such as EFFIES, CANNES, ET Brand Equity Shark Awards, amongst others.