Pelin Incesu: Driving AstraZeneca’s Success in Middle East & Africa with Innovation and Leadership

Pelin Incesu, the Area Vice President for Middle East & Africa at AstraZeneca, has been a driving force behind the company’s impressive achievements in the region. Since stepping into her role in 2020, Incesu has overseen significant advancements and strategic initiatives that underscore her leadership in the healthcare sector.

Prior to her current role, Incesu served as Vice President of Commercial Strategy, International, from 2017. Her extensive experience and strategic vision have been pivotal in AstraZeneca’s operations in the Middle East and Africa, regions that have seen remarkable growth under her guidance. In 2022, AstraZeneca reported over $1 billion in sales in the MEA region, a testament to the successful strategies implemented during her tenure.

Incesu’s leadership has been instrumental in several key initiatives. She oversaw the distribution of AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine across 61 countries in the MEA region, playing a crucial role in the global fight against the pandemic. Additionally, she launched the AZ Forest Initiative in Ghana and Rwanda, an environmental program aimed at combating deforestation and promoting sustainability.

Incesu’s commitment to healthcare extends beyond her corporate responsibilities. She announced the Cancer Care Africa program at COP27, focusing on improving cancer care across the continent and addressing critical healthcare needs. Her role as the international leader sponsor for AstraZeneca’s Global Inclusion & Diversity Council further highlights her dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace.

Pelin Incesu’s leadership is marked by her innovative approach and commitment to impactful healthcare solutions. Her work not only advances AstraZeneca’s mission but also contributes significantly to improving health outcomes and promoting sustainability across the Middle East and Africa.Pelin Incesu’s influence extends to various facets of AstraZeneca’s operations. Her strategic initiatives include expanding access to critical medications and fostering partnerships that address regional health challenges. Her leadership in launching impactful programs and driving sales growth reflects her dedication to enhancing healthcare standards and promoting global health equity.