Global pharmaceutical manufacturer Pfizer has announced the appointment of Elif Aral as Regional President for the Middle East, Russia, and Africa, effective September 2024.

In her new role, Elif brings over 28 years of industry leadership experience to spearhead operations and drive innovation and scientific breakthroughs in the region’s healthcare industry. She joined Pfizer in 1995 as a Sales Representative in Turkey and has since transitioned to key roles, including her most recent position as the Emerging Markets Access & Accord Commercial Lead, as well as VP for Global Marketing for Cardiovascular and Global Brands. She will be based in Dubai, UAE, working closely with regional teams and governments to strengthen the company's market presence.

On the academic front, Elif holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics from Istanbul University and has completed executive programs at Harvard Business School, Wharton, Kellogg Executive Education, and the Management Centre of Europe.

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Expressing enthusiasm for her new role, Elif said, "I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how Pfizer has evolved and transformed the medical industry for nearly three decades—almost my entire career. Additionally, I have seen how the company's leadership prioritises diversity, equity, and inclusion, not only for the patients in the markets we serve but also for employees at all levels and across all regions. I am thrilled to embark on this new chapter with Pfizer and am particularly honored to be the first woman to hold a presidential role at the company in this region. As I take on this new role, my foremost goal is to build upon the strong foundation we have established across the MERA region over the past 70 years. I am deeply committed to ensuring that our global innovative treatments and breakthrough therapies are not only developed but also made accessible, as we continue to bridge the healthcare equity gap by working together with our dedicated teams and partners to drive meaningful change and improve health outcomes for communities across the region."