Juan Roman is a pharmaceutical professional whose career exemplifies a blend of strategic acumen and compassionate community involvement. Born in Spain and currently based in Boston, Juan’s professional journey in healthcare spans over two decades, reflecting his dedication to improving patient care and healthcare systems.
Educated at the University of Pennsylvania and NYU Stern School of Business, Juan’s academic prowess is evident from his consecutive Dean’s List awards. His career commenced in healthcare consulting, where he spent 12 years enhancing organizational efficiency and innovation. This experience provided him with a robust understanding of the healthcare landscape, making him a valued consultant among peers and clients.
Transitioning into the pharmaceutical industry, Juan dedicated the following 11 years to drug development and market strategies at Acceleron, where he currently serves as Vice President of Market Access. His efforts are particularly noted for their ethical approach and focus on patient-centric solutions, contributing significantly to advancements in patient treatment options.
Juan’s impact extends beyond professional achievements. He is deeply engaged in his local community in Boston, organizing sports events for youth and volunteering extensively, which has earned him numerous accolades. An avid sports enthusiast, Juan enjoys tennis, pickleball, basketball, and soccer, embodying the principles of teamwork and physical well-being in all his pursuits.
His approach to leadership and innovation in healthcare is informed by a philosophy that balances professional rigor with a profound commitment to community welfare. Juan Roman’s legacy is characterized not just by his professional milestones but by his significant contributions to community upliftment and the broader healthcare conversation.
How did you get started in this business?
My journey into the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry began shortly after graduating from the University of Pennsylvania, followed by a stint at NYU Stern School of Business. I started my career in healthcare consulting, working with firms like IQVIA Consulting and Navigant Consulting, where I developed a deep understanding of healthcare systems and efficiency improvements. This experience paved the way for my transition into the pharmaceutical sector, culminating in my current role at Acceleron, where I focus on market access strategies.
How does your company make money?
Acceleron generates revenue by developing and commercializing gene therapies for dermatological diseases. My role as Vice President of Market Access involves strategizing the best paths for our products to reach the market effectively. This includes navigating regulatory landscapes, securing favorable reimbursement scenarios, and ensuring our innovations are accessible to patients, thereby driving both revenue growth and patient satisfaction.
How does your company go about acquiring new customers?
Our approach to acquiring new customers primarily revolves around rigorous scientific research and collaboration with healthcare providers. We utilize targeted advertising in medical journals and at industry conferences to reach healthcare professionals. Our dedicated sales team also plays a crucial role, engaging directly with doctors and healthcare facilities to educate them about our products and the benefits they offer patients, ensuring a strong presence in the market.
How did you work your way up in this business?
I started in healthcare consulting, which provided a broad exposure to various aspects of healthcare management and innovation. Each role, from consultant to senior advisor at different firms, helped me build crucial skills in strategic planning and understanding market needs. These roles served as stepping stones to my current executive position at Acceleron, where I leverage my extensive experience to guide our market access strategies.
What made you want to work in this industry?
My inspiration to enter the healthcare field stemmed from a profound desire to make a tangible impact on people’s lives. Growing up in Spain, where community and well-being are deeply valued, I was drawn to a career that combined scientific innovation with patient care. The ability to contribute to advancements that significantly improve patient outcomes continues to drive my passion for this industry.
What is it that you feel makes you good at your job?
My effectiveness in this role is largely due to my strategic thinking, a deep-rooted empathy for patients, and a commitment to ethical practice. These traits help me navigate complex challenges and foster innovations that are not only scientifically sound but also ethically grounded and centered around patient care.
What are the perks of working in this type of business?
Working in the pharmaceutical industry offers the unique opportunity to be at the forefront of scientific innovation. The perks include continuous learning, the thrill of developing groundbreaking therapies, and the financial rewards associated with successful drug development. Additionally, this industry offers the chance to collaborate with top minds in science and medicine.
What are the disadvantages of working in this field?
The pharmaceutical industry can be highly competitive and demanding, often requiring long hours and significant dedication to keep pace with rapid technological advancements and regulatory changes. The pressure to deliver results can be intense, with high stakes linked to the success or failure of new therapies.
What’s the most rewarding part of your work?
The most rewarding aspect of my work is seeing the real-world impact of our products on patients’ lives—knowing that our efforts in drug development and market strategies significantly improve their quality of life. Additionally, leading a team that shares a commitment to innovation and patient care is incredibly fulfilling.
Where is your industry headed? What excites you about the future of this line of work?
The pharmaceutical industry is increasingly embracing personalized medicine and digital health technologies, which holds tremendous promise for patient care. The shift towards more targeted therapies and the integration of digital tools excite me, as they promise to enhance the precision and effectiveness of treatments while making healthcare more accessible.
What advice do you give people who want to get into your field of work?
I advise aspiring professionals to focus on building a strong foundational knowledge in both science and business aspects of healthcare. Cultivate resilience and adaptability, as the landscape is fast-evolving. Networking and continuous learning are crucial. Don’t be afraid to start in roles that might not be your end goal—they can provide valuable experience and open unexpected doors.
Are you willing to be a mentor? If so, how should someone contact you?
I am open to mentoring individuals interested in the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. Prospective mentees can reach out to me via professional networking platforms like LinkedIn, where they can connect, share their interests, and discuss potential mentoring opportunities.