Interview With Joanne Santomauro

About Joanne

Dr. Joanne Santomauro, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Ancillare, LP, created the Clinical Trial Ancillary Supply Chain (CTASC™) Management industry in 2006. Joanne’s 35 years of supply chain management expertise led the company to launch its market-leading model. Her leadership has resulted in Ancillare’s explosive growth throughout the world.

For more than a decade, Joanne has led her teams in the innovation, development, enhancement, and expansion of the Ancillare CTASC supply chain model, delivered through state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies previously unrealized in the marketplace. The CTASC model embraces the complexities and globalization of the ancillary supply chain and manages the chain with a singular focus. This proven flexible and scalable model ensures a transparent and efficient process for Sponsors and their CROs.

Joanne holds advanced degrees including a Doctorate in Business from the Temple University Fox School of Business.

Interview

What risks have you taken in your career that have paid off?

• The biggest career risk was starting a new business in an untouched market within an industry new to me. Decades of supply chain expertise and a penchant for a challenge prompted me to say “yes” when a clinical trial Sponsor approached us for help with difficult-to-source clinical supplies and equipment. Our willingness to innovate grew into an industry-defining venture. Looking back, this journey has taught me to venture out of my comfort zone and not be afraid to take risks.

What role has mentoring played in your career, either as a mentor, mentee or both? If applicable, how did you find a mentor? What advice would you give?

• I was very fortunate to be paired with a mentor two decades ago through a program at a top global pharmaceutical organization. Over the years, we maintained and grew our relationship through mutual respect, trust, and transparency, eventually developing a wonderful friendship. Our dialogue remains a valuable source of professional insight and support. I have also served as a mentor throughout my career as an entrepreneur, including launching a women’s entrepreneurship program at a local community college here in Philadelphia. I encourage all women in Pharma to seek out opportunities for mentorship. When we support and learn from one another, we all have more potential for advancement.

What do you wish that you knew early in your career that would have been helpful?

• In leadership, success is dictated by the standards you set for yourself and others. But confidence and consistency are just as important. Many pressures of the work I do are external — outside of my control. I would tell my younger self to breathe, be calm, and take time to think through solutions. Unexpected challenges are inevitable, but they do not come at the expense of measured responses.

What career advice do you have for someone new to the industry?

• Build a network. Every interaction is an opportunity for you to learn more. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Find a mentor who will help guide you with insight, knowledge, and experience.

What is the one piece of advice that you would give to women in the Pharma Industry that will help them become better leaders?

• Believe in yourself and your potential. Do not let anyone tell you that you cannot do something. Great leaders take chances, surround yourself with good people and mentors, and do not be afraid to bring new innovative ideas forward.