Cracking Through ‘The Bamboo Ceiling’: East Asians Reach For Pharma Leadership

Despite the significant presence of East Asian professionals in the pharmaceutical industry, their representation in top leadership roles remains disproportionately low. This disparity can be attributed to cultural bias, limited access to influential networks, and systemic barriers within corporate structures.

Walking through the halls of the St. Francis Westin Hotel during the J.P. Morgan Global Health Conference, one can’t help but notice the growing presence of East Asians. Yet, when it comes to the highest levels of leadership, their representation remains disproportionately low.

Despite making up 25% of the pharmaceutical workforce in the US, East Asians occupy only 3% of C-Suite roles and hold a mere 1.2% of board seats, according to a...

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