CRM Innovation at Life Sciences Dreamin’ 2024

Last week’s Life Sciences Dreamin’ 2024 event covered substantial ground in commercial innovation, with a particular focus on CRM, Salesforce, and customer engagement. From serene morning meditation sessions to insightful panel discussions and cutting-edge showcases, the event catered to a diverse group of technology, marketing, sales, and operational leaders. Here’s a concise summary of the two-plus days just outside the gates of Valley Forge National Park in the Philadelphia suburbs.

 

Starting the Day with Morning Meditation

The conference kicked off with a peaceful morning meditation led by Neysha Arcelay in the hotel courtyard, setting a serene tone for the crisp autumn day. This tranquil start was followed by a warm welcome in the Grand Ballroom from Shannon J. Gregg and Liv Porter, setting the stage for a day packed with learning and networking.

 

Empathy Meets Innovation

A major highlight was the panel “Empathy Meets Innovation: Shaping the Future of Life Sciences Work,” featuring industry luminaries such as J. Cris Salinas and Wendy Cofran. The discussion centered on the crucial integration of empathy in technological advancements, underscoring the need for a balance between innovation and the human touch in healthcare.

 

AI-Driven Discussions

The focus then shifted to exploring various facets of AI in life sciences:

  • I had the pleasure of presenting “Applying AI Today: Beyond the Buzz,” discussing the dynamic role of AI in enhancing decision-making and operational efficiency.
  • The “Future of MedTech” session, led by Amy Siegel and Thomas Kiesnowski, delved into AI-powered sales strategies, illustrating the impact of intelligent tools on market adoption. Numerous applications that integrate directly with Salesforce Cloud to make data more actionable were presented throughout the conference.

 

Leadership and Career Development

Several sessions addressed career growth and leadership in the life sciences field:

  • Dionne Mejer shared insights on leading with soul through her methodology that turns B2B into H2H (Human to Human).
  • “Building Your Salesforce Career” offered perspectives on internal and external career development within Salesforce ecosystems.

 

Change Management and Compliance

The panel on “Managing Transformation in Life Sciences” featured experts like Marla Benelli and Ian Gotts, who discussed strategies for navigating the complexities of digital transformation and compliance within the sector. Change management is key to driving the adoption of new technologies, emerging channels, and operational models, especially as AI evolves rapidly, requiring us to help our coworkers and organizations keep pace.

The conference wasn’t just about learning; it was also about making connections and having fun. The evening’s Fall Ball, featuring live music by Jane Blonde and the Goldfingers, provided a perfect end to a day brimming with insights and discussions. Many new connections were made, and promising partnerships began to take shape.

 

The event concluded with discussions on the future of life sciences and Salesforce, providing attendees with actionable insights and forecasts to navigate upcoming industry trends. Life Sciences Dreamin’ 2024 not only offered a platform for sharing knowledge but also fostered an environment for participants to grow professionally and personally within the rapidly evolving landscape of life sciences. The blend of technical knowledge, leadership development, and personal growth opportunities made it a standout event for everyone involved. I hope to see you there next year!

#EmbraceTheEvolution,

Chris

 

Chris Mycek

Vice President, Enterprise Solutions

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SCOTT REESE

Global Head of Innovation

Scott is fortunate to bring 25 years of digital expertise to the blulava team. Scott has broad global executive leadership experience ranging from serving as the Executive Creative Director for the world’s largest digital agency to Managing Director of a Microsoft and Accenture joint venture focused on advanced analytics and artificial intelligence solutions for global clients. He has also worked with experimental media artists and creative technologists to bring to life immersive entertainment experiences. Scott has been awarded numerous patents for his analytical technology inventions. He has also been recognized widely for his creative work including Webbys, Cannes Lion, Clio, MM&M, DTC Awards and many others.

When not working to build creative technology solutions for clients, Scott is typically found in the company of musicians, artists and athletes. A highly avid skier, Scott is former PSIA ski coach in Winter Park Colorado. He is a former completive distance runner and triathlete. Any given night you may find Scott in various rock venues or music festivals.

Carl Napolitano

Vice President, Creative Director

Carl is an award-winning creative director with a distinguished career in healthcare communications, design, and marketing. Over the past 20 years, Carl has cultivated a seasoned intuition for compelling creative by showcasing the nuances of a brand’s value proposition. His artistic energy supports both the brands he develops as well as the team he leads.

From innovative digital tactics to integrated media campaigns to corporate identity branding, Carl’s creative work and dynamic leadership have been recognized with industry awards from the RX Club and the OMNI Awards.

When not at work, you can find Carl on the golf course with his son or at the beach with his family.

Chris Mycek

Vice President, Enterprise Solutions

Recognized as a top-tier strategic marketer, technologist and growth leader, Chris’ experience includes more than 20 years of experience in supporting the development of corporate, brand, and digital marketing for multi-national organizations in the life sciences, consumer packaged goods, consumer electronics, financial services, and food industries. He has designed and delivered educational content his entire career, and Chris’ clients have included MARS, Procter & Gamble, Prudential, Pfizer, Alcoa, Hasbro, Barilla Pasta, Johnson & Johnson, Unisys, Samsung, Campbell’s Soup and Harley-Davidson.

Having started his career at Johnson& Johnson on the OTC & Rx business, Chris has extensive client and agency side experience. He’s held leadership roles at Publicis and Cognizant Technology Solutions, as well as innovative emerging companies both privately held and private equity backed, and currently serves as a board advisor for multiple technology start-ups. His track record in developing category-leading business strategy has paralleled his ability to integrate new channels and technologies that create competitive advantages.

He earned a B.A. in Economics from Middlebury College, where he also studied psychology and art history. Chris lives just outside of Philadelphia near Valley Forge National Park, has three adult children who work in the Life Sciences, enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife Barbara. In his spare time, he can most often be found fly fishing and hiking with his Border Collie Winifred. He also enjoys playing various string instruments when the muse strikes.


SCOTT REESE

Global Head of Innovation

Scott brings 25 years of digital expertise to the blulava team. His executive leadership experience ranges from serving as the Executive Creative Director for one of the world’s largest digital agencies to Managing Director of a Microsoft/Accenture advanced analytics venture, focusing on AI solutions for global clients. Scott’s work has spanned industries from entertainment, retail, financial services with a heavy dose of pharmaceutical experience.

Scott has been granted numerous patents for his analytical technology inventions. He has been recognized widely for his creative work, winning awards at the Webbys, Cannes Lion, CLIO, and the MM&M Awards, to name a few.

When not working, Scott can usually be found in the company of musicians, artists, and athletes.

LEO FRANCIS, PhD

Chief Operating Officer,
Chief Medical Officer

Leo is an award-winning industry leader, twice recognized as one of PharmaVOICE’s 100 most inspiring people in the life-sciences industry. His driving focus is to frame science in a context that creates meaning and relevance for healthcare professionals and their patients across all aspects of therapeutic commercialization.

Leo is a skilled communicator and visionary, operationally robust in translating scientific ideas into organizational value. He is a consummate team worker, customer-focused, organizationally agile, and committed to improving patient care.

JEFFREY FREEDMAN

Executive Vice President

With more than twenty-five years of pharmaceutical and digital marketing experience, he is a thought leader who utilizes analytics and adult learning principles to design and develop creative, high-impact, marketing and communications solutions for the healthcare industry. Jeffrey creates programs that remove friction and create insights from the brand/pharma work process; his projects have ranged from comprehensive omnichannel, CRM and compliance initiatives to complex technological solutions that that educate and enhance communication in the healthcare ecosystem. 

Jeffrey has served over fifteen years on agency leadership teams and has headed up strategy, technology, creative, communications, and analytics groups. He has helped top brands navigate a fascinating and rapid convergence of omnichannel communications and technology, and his clients have ranged from global pharmaceutical companies and brands to emerging biotech and medical device companies.

Jeffrey received his bachelor of arts degree from Skidmore College and an MBA in international finance from the Stern School of Business at New York University. He has an unquenchable curiosity for technology and innovation.

To unplug, Jeff loves to cook and entertain family and friends, as well as listen to and travel for live music and concerts.

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