Alumni Spotlight

Lisa Pilla, ’85

Principal, CoAction Consulting, LLC
Biopharma strategic advisor

What are you most proud of regarding your career?

What I am most proud of in my career is the consistency with which I was able to deliver meaningful business results while steadily growing in scope, responsibility, and leadership-from my start as a field sales representative to ultimately serving on the U.S. Executive Committee of a global biopharmaceutical company. Along the way, I had the opportunity to build and lead specialty businesses, navigate complex clinical and commercial challenges, and help organizations grow across a wide range of therapeutic areas and company stages. Yet, as I reflect on that journey, what stands out most is not any single title or achievement, but the people. The mentors who challenged and believed in me, the teammates and peers who trusted me, and the mentees I had the privilege to support-all of whom shaped my perspective and growth. These mutually impactful relationships have been the most enduring and rewarding outcome of my career.

How was your RU Pharmacy experience foundational in where you are today?

RU Pharmacy prepared me for my career by teaching me how to think critically, manage complexity, and work effectively as part of a team. It helped me develop the ability to break down complex problems, navigate ambiguity, and find practical solutions-skills I relied on throughout my career. I also learned early that while a pharmacy degree provides deep expertise, long-term success requires breadth, business acumen, and adaptability, which is why I continued by RU journey completing my MBA at the Business School. That mindset shaped how I built my career and continues to guide how I grow and lead today.

Are there any passion projects you’d like to share with other EMSOP alumni?

I have a passion for spotting undeveloped talent, and engaging with these people as a coach, mentor or advisor. I volunteer as a mentor and executive coach with the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association (HBA) and frequently advise my consulting clients’ junior team members and the children of friends and family on personal branding, job searches and career navigation.