Sam Haggart

What is the biggest challenge in our industry today and how do you overcome it?

Pharmaceutical crime is rapidly becoming one of the biggest challenges in the industry today. Data from the Pharmaceutical Security Institute (PSI) shows that pharmaceutical crime incidents, consisting of counterfeiting, illegal diversion, and theft, have increased by almost 60% since 2020. This, paired with the increasing quality of counterfeits, and promotion of suspect products on social media, means more harmful products are ending up in the hands of patients than ever. A multi-pronged approach is essential to addressing this issue, ranging from patient resources and public awareness campaigns, to collaborations with law enforcement, regulators, and other pharmaceutical companies.

What advice would you give to someone looking to follow in your career path within the Pharmaceutical Industry?

Focus on the skills you have developed and how they can be applied to a particular role, instead of getting caught up in assumptions about the role. With an Honours Bachelor of Arts, working at a biotechnology company seemed out of reach. However, it is my attention to detail, passion for technology, and experience working in intellectual property crime that makes me a great investigator, and an ideal fit for my position. It's important to avoid limiting or underrepresenting yourself and your achievements - especially as a woman or gender-diverse professional working in STEM.

What is the most important thing you have learned that makes you an effective and inspirational leader?

Effective leading requires active listening. Decisions and direction should not be determined in a silo; it is the input from those around us that helps us consider alternative options, new perspectives, and opportunities to support. Initiatives informed by collaboration often result in the most positive outcomes.

Share an experience where you have displayed and contributed to the impact & momentum of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion?

My most impactful experience displaying and contributing to the promotion of DE&I is my everyday lived experience being a non-binary professional working in a STEM industry. Being my authentic self at work has and continues to allow for meaningful conversations, input on accommodations and initiatives to support 2SLGBTQ+ professionals, and visibility for fellow gender-diverse individuals, especially in senior roles.