Reena Joseph

Background

About Reena Joseph

In my childhood days in India, I was afraid of the dark – mainly because I feared there was a snake about to jump on me! This did not deter my father from nagging me to turn off lights when I left a room. It is in fact his “green” conscience that led me to the work I do today. When I grew older and wiser, I understood that my father knew the perils of fast-depleting resources. This propelled me to research and development as I began my career as a scientist, and sustainability has become the core of my work and life. Within the pharmaceutical business, I continually identify many opportunities to streamline and optimize the supply network for the good of my employer, our patients, and the earth. As the lead clinical supply optimization expert, I manage the optimization of clinical trial supplies for Pfizer’s portfolio—saving several million dollars a year by reducing drug supply waste, unnecessary packaging, and shipping operations. The delicate balancing act of how much is just enough to run a trial requires forecasting and optimization using stochastic modeling. My ability to analyze future probabilities to balance risk and cost helps us bring lifesaving medicines to patients. With such a deep connection to resource management and sustainability, I can truly say that I love my job. I’m an eager collaborator—always ready to help other departments within the corporation to solve their supply challenges. A natural educator, I’m known for breaking down complex scenarios into simple concepts for people who are not experts in modelling and optimization. And I’m a valuable resource to more than 50 supply chain managers as they plan complex clinical trials. When I’m not working, I’m having fun creating tasty meals from locally sourced ingredients for my family and friends —and food sustainability is another major passion of mine. You’ll also find me out on the trails—enjoying nature, hiking and viewing the positive impact of sustainability practices.