CEO Insights Magazine

In the realm of healthcare, effective leadership plays a pivotal role in driving the growth and success of an organization. One such exemplary leader is Loreann Villanueva, the Country Manager of Takeda Healthcare Philippines. With a wealth of professional experience and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Lo-ann, as she is affectionately known, embodies leadership principles that foster both personal and organizational growth.

Lo-ann places great emphasis on aligning team objectives with individual purpose, creating not only alignment but also genuine inspiration within her team. Acknowledging the prevalent integration of work and personal life in today's world, Lo-ann Villanueva understands the importance of striving to be fully present and energized as a leader. She recognizes that in order to excel, it is crucial to maintain a strong work-life balance and ensure that her professional accountabilities do not hinder personal commitments. Lo-ann's leadership strongly aligns with Takeda's core values of integrity, fairness, perseverance, and honesty. She also embodies the company's business model, which prioritizes patient-centric healthcare access, strategic partnerships, and the delivery of innovative treatments. By exemplifying these principles, Lo-ann Villanueva sets a compelling example for emerging industry leaders to emulate. Lo-ann shares more about her insights and experiences here.

What is it that drives your daily endeavors?

Every day, my motivation stems from the belief that even the smallest actions can wield significant influence on others' lives. Whether it involves my professional engagements or simply extending kindness to those around me, I am committed to leaving a positive imprint on the world. Each morning presents an opportunity to make a constructive impact on the day ahead.

Equally vital to me is prioritizing quality time with my family. I deeply appreciate the importance of fostering strong relationships and the happiness derived from sharing meaningful experiences together. Thus, I consciously strive to strike a balance between my professional pursuits and personal life, cherishing the moments spent with my loved ones.

In what way would you characterize Takeda as a corporation and its present standing within the market?

As a global biopharmaceutical leader, Takeda Philippines is driven by its commitment to innovation and collaboration, guided by the principles of Patient Trust Business Reputation. Since its establishment in 1968 in the Philippines, Takeda Healthcare Philippines (THPI) has remained steadfast in its mission to expand patient access to treatment nationwide. Our ultimate goal is to fortify the healthcare system in the Philippines by providing affordable and integrated solutions for various disease areas, including oncology, gastroenterology, and rare diseases, through sustainable access programs.

We have implemented proactive measures such as our Patient Assistance Programs that empowers Filipino patients to receive groundbreaking treatments based on their financial capacity. These programs are particularly crucial for patients with cancer, who often face limited support from public healthcare institutions. I am proud that our team is at the forefront of advocating holistic cancer care. We will continue to expand our product portfolio and introduce new, innovative access schemes where possible, bringing better health and a brighter future to the Filipino people.

Share with us your approach to leadership. What principles or strategies do you adhere to when guiding your team?

My leadership approach revolves around empowering my team to make decisions, even allowing room for mistakes as part of the learning process. Drawing inspiration from the principles outlined in the book 'Good to Great,' particularly the concept of Level 5 leadership, I aim to embody personal humility and unwavering determination. By placing the needs of others above my own, I strive to create an environment where my team can thrive. I constantly remind myself of these principles, using them as a compass to guide my actions and decisions. This commitment to continuous improvement allows me to evolve as a leader, ensuring that I am always providing the best support and guidance to my team.

A key focus of my leadership style is ensuring that goals are achieved. I invest time in aligning the team's vision and expectations with key leaders, concentrating on 2-3 top priorities and encouraging the team to do the same. I prioritize maintaining a high level of openness and transparency with my direct reports, enabling us to identify opportunities and challenges proactively and address them with agility. This approach fosters a culture of collaboration and accountability within the team, ultimately driving success.

How do you keep yourself up to date with ongoing industry trends to steer your organization towards the future and what is the future destination you are heading towards?

In order to stay up-to-date with industry trends, I actively engage in a variety of activities. These include reading business articles, networking with colleagues in the industry, and participating in industry meetings. Additionally, I am honored to serve as a Board member of PHAPCARES, a social responsibility arm of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) with the goal of helping improve the health and lives of Filipinos disadvantaged by sickness, poverty, and disasters.

Looking towards the future, Takeda has set its sights on distinguishing itself in the realm of healthcare access. Our approach is centered around adopting a broad and holistic perspective that encompasses the entire patient journey. We place great importance on understanding market dynamics and tailoring our strategies to meet the unique needs of each patient.

At the core of our mission is the drive to develop and deliver groundbreaking medicines and vaccines that address significant public health challenges, not only in the Philippines but also on a global scale. Currently, we are deeply focused on tackling the ongoing threat of dengue disease by introducing a next-generation dengue vaccine in the country. But as we move forward, Takeda remains wholeheartedly committed to the development of innovative treatments for cancer, rare diseases, and vaccines by the year 2030. Simultaneously, our aim is to ensure that these innovative medicines continue to remain accessible to Filipino patients, as I mentioned earlier.

Above all, Takeda believes in investing in our employees by providing a healthy and holistic working environment that fosters trust, collaboration, and camaraderie. This is exemplified by our wellness and engagement programs, which have received recognition, including the prestigious Great Place to Work certification and Asia Enterprise Award for Investment in People, most recently listed in the 2024 Philippines Best Workplaces.

Given your extensive experience in the industry, what guidance would you offer to emerging leaders in the field?

Clarify your purpose and assist your team in finding theirs. It's crucial for organizational success when your team isn't just aligned but genuinely motivated. Aim to harmonize your professional and personal life. As the saying goes, 'You can't pour from an empty cup.' Your team relies on you to consistently operate at your best.

Loreann Villanueva, Country Manager, Takeda Healthcare Philippines

Lo-ann Villanueva embodies the essence of a truly dedicated leader, understanding the significance of being fully present and energized. She recognizes the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, ensuring that her professional accountabilities do not hinder personal commitments. Lo-ann's leadership is deeply rooted in Takeda's core values of integrity, fairness, perseverance, and honesty. She wholeheartedly embraces the company's business model, which prioritizes patient-centric healthcare access, strategic partnerships, and the delivery of innovative treatments. By embodying these principles, Lo-ann Villanueva sets a powerful example for emerging industry leaders, inspiring them to prioritize their well-being while making a positive impact in their professional endeavors.