Pharmaceutical industry market in Croatia today is moderately strong, with significant potential for growth. In such an environment, head of the pharmaceutical company Takeda is Viktorija Zadro Huml, responsible for the markets of Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia & Herzegovina. For Diplomacy&Commerce magazine, she reveals that despite her evident success and knowledge, she is still learning, that family support is very important to her, and that it is good to be satisfied on a private level as well, in order for success to be complete. Her team in the countries she covers are all women in leading positions.
1. According to official data, about 16% of women are in management positions at large or medium companies in Croatia. You are one of them, as a General Manager for Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia & Herzegovina at Takeda. How difficult is it to be where you are today? How was your business journey?
Journey to position of General Manager in Takeda has been both challenging and rewarding. Challenges have been in my life to learn me on what type of person and leader I want to be. I started in clinical research, switched to sales and marketing and worked my way up from sales representative to where I am today. I am curious by nature, believe in hard work and am always up for an adventure and something new. Experience gained on the job gives me a better understanding of some of the challenges my colleagues face. I am still on a journey and am looking for opportunities to be a better leader and learn from participating in innovative projects, stepping outside of my comfort zone. I am in a good place today because of the support I have from my family and colleagues at work. As a woman in a senior management role, I am passionate about fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. I believe it is essential to support and mentor the next generation of leaders and encouraging women to pursue and achieve their career ambitions.
2. What would be your advice to all women in business? Is there a secret to succeed?
The advice is the same for anyone in business. Never stop learning and work hard. Challenges and setbacks are part of the journey. Learn from them and enjoy the experience as much as you can. Career is even more valuable when you have a full personal life. Having a mentor and being a mentor to others is a great way to learn from other people’s experience.
3. How would you rate the pharmaceutical industry market in Croatia today, and what are the biggest problems you are facing? How would you rate Takeda’s position?
Croatia has a well-established healthcare system and a growing focus on innovative treatments and therapies. However, the industry and entire healthcare system faces several challenges. Budgetary constraints within the healthcare system can limit the availability and adoption of innovative therapies. Securing market access and ensuring favorable reimbursement conditions is often a complex and timeconsuming process. Despite these challenges, Takeda maintains a robust position at the Croatian market the Croatian market. Our commitment to innovation, quality, and patient-centric approaches has helped us build strong relationships with healthcare providers and stakeholders. We continually strive to bring innovation and improve patient outcomes in Croatia.
4. What is the focus of your business if we know the fact that you invest a lot in research and innovative medicines?
Our investment in research and development aims to transform patient care and improve health outcomes worldwide.
In fiscal year 23 our investment in R&D was $4.8 Bn. Our R&D efforts are focused on four therapeutic areas: Gastrointestinal and Infflammation, Neuroscience, Oncology, Rare Genetics and Hematology. We have more than 180 active partnership allowing us to tap into cutting- edge science and innovation at the source.
5. In this interview, we talk about women position in business today . Your company with you at the head sets a good example, because your closest colleagues are women. What would you highlight as the comparative advantages of women in business and what is your message to other employers?
Thank you. My managers wear many hats. Women often excel in balancing multiple responsibilites and do so by using emotional intelligence when it comes to team management and conflict resolution. My team has demonstrated remarkable level of resillience and is able to navigate and overcame challenges with determination and adaptability. My message to other employers is to ensure fair hiring and equitable oportunities for promotions and career advancement. Foster a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected and look for employees whose values match your values as employer. Greater diversity and equity lead to more innovation and better working environment.