Menassie Taddese

Senior Advisor

Menassie Taddese, Senior Advisor at EMIR, is a globally experienced and visionary industry leader with deep expertise in general management, commercial operations, finance, and treasury. He has served across diverse geographic regions, offering profound insights to guide businesses through strategic transitions and transformations, enabling them to excel in dynamic environments. Menassie is also passionate about sharing his knowledge in the realms of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I).

Menassie’s exceptional career in the pharmaceutical industry has witnessed his successful leadership of a diverse range of businesses, fortifying and enhancing their performance in each case. His work is characterised by authenticity, sharp business acumen, unwavering focus, and an innate understanding of global markets and cultures.

Previously, in his role as President, Emerging Markets (EM) at Viatris, Menassie oversaw a sizeable $3 billion business spanning four major therapeutic areas, all managed by a team of approximately 3,500 individuals. His journey began with Pfizer in 1997, where he assumed various roles with increasing responsibility, starting in corporate and treasury functions before transitioning to senior commercial and general management positions. His tenure at Pfizer culminated with his involvement as one of the 12 founders of Pfizer’s Upjohn start-up, ultimately leading to the successful monetisation of the business. Beyond his direct responsibilities, Menassie played a pivotal role in establishing Pfizer’s company-wide approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I). He also served as the Global Chair for Pfizer’s Global Blacks Council and was a member of Pfizer’s Diversity Worldwide Leadership Committee. In addition, he was a distinguished member of the Pfizer Senior Leadership Council, comprising the top ~270 executives, and held the position of Section 16 Officer.

Presently, Menassie Taddese actively participates on the boards of several corporate and non-profit entities, including Medexus (listed on the TSX), where he serves as the Chairman of the Audit Committee. He is also a member of the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU). Throughout his illustrious career, Menassie has received numerous accolades and awards from both industry and academia.

Taddese holds an MBA from Penn State’s Smeal College of Business and a BSc from Virginia Tech. He has further enriched his leadership and strategic skills by completing an advanced Executive Leadership, Strategy, and Digital program at Columbia Business School.