Professor Anton-Giulio Manganelli has worked in the pharma industry since he finished his PhD in Economics. As a consultant, he was involved in competition-related cases in the pharma sector at the European Commission level. These cases involved horizontal agreements, such as pay-for-delay agreements, abuses of dominant positions and mergers. He has also worked as an economic consultant for pharmaceutical firms and regulatory agencies, covering economic modelling, market-access planning and value-based contracts.
We interviewed Professor Manganelli to learn more about the International Master in Pharma & Biotech Management, a unique, cutting-edge programme.
How would you describe the pharma and biotech sectors in Europe and internationally?
These sectors are fundamental in any ageing population. The blockbuster pharma model continues to be a reference in the sector, but new models are becoming more important in less regulated areas such as medical devices, eHealth, nutrition and life sciences. Partnerships between major pharma companies and small biotech companies are becoming more and more common and new technologies in manufacturing and biologics will dramatically alter the pharma sector. In this constantly evolving environment, it is fundamental to understand the different emerging business models and the latest trends in the sector.
How does the International Master in Pharma & Biotech Management prepare graduates to succeed in the industry?
Our Master prepares graduates by developing the leadership competences demanded by top pharma and biotech companies and providing an in-depth look at the latest trends in the sector.
To ensure professional growth after graduation, EADA has a diverse network of companies in the sector that regularly recruit our talent at on and off-campus events. Many EADA alumni already work in these companies, which helps pave the way for new graduates looking to enter the sector.
Students develop the leadership competences demanded by top pharma and biotech companies and get an in-depth look at the latest trends in the sector.
What specific skills does the programme provide to help graduates stand out from the crowd?
The Master combines our intense Personal Development Programme (PDP) with the technical knowledge and understanding of sectorial trends that maximises their employability. During the PDP, participants learn to leverage their leadership skills through modules on negotiation, team work and communication. In parallel, students develop technical skills that are in high demand by analysing regulatory and government affairs, supply chain, market access, pricing and marketing and sales.
What types of professional opportunities can participants expect after graduation?
Our graduates are ready for the world market. The most common positions among graduates include product manager, marketing manager, market access manager, government affairs manager, consultant, health economist, entrepreneur and venture capitalist. Graduates can expect to work in a wide variety of companies related to the pharma and biotech sectors including traditional pharma companies, consumer healthcare, biotechnology, medical devices and eHealth.
A great career starts with great networking, and EADA provides ample opportunities during the year to grow their network
What one piece of advice would you give to students looking to break into the industry?
I would recommend that students stay open to the networking opportunities that the international environment at EADA provides. Thy should view every contact that they make –professors, conference speakers, etc.– as a potential employer. A great career starts with great networking, and EADA provides ample opportunities during the year to grow their network through faculty, guest speakers, conferences, Career Service and EADA Alumni events.
