141 - Bringing Consumer Centricity to Pharma: Val Pastrana on Innovation, Insights, and the Future of Research

In this episode, Greenbook Podcast host Karen Lynch sits down with Val Pastrana, Global Consumer Science Lead for the AMEA region at Sanofi. With a career spanning leading CPG giants like P&G, Unilever, and Mondelēz, Val shares his journey in insights, innovation, and consumer science.

He discusses the importance of embedding consumer-centricity in pharmaceutical product development, the balance between AI-driven research and human-led insights, and the value of a global perspective in shaping innovation. Val also delves into his leadership philosophy, emphasizing authenticity, psychological safety, and fostering individual strengths. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the future of insights and the role of technology in shaping consumer research.

Key Takeaways:

• Consumer insights should be embedded in R&D for true innovation.
• A global perspective helps balance market-specific needs with scalable solutions.
• AI is a valuable tool but cannot replace human observation and context.
• Understanding the deeper motivations behind consumer behavior leads to better innovation.
• Leadership is about authenticity, nurturing strengths, and fostering psychological safety.
• Future-back innovation identifies trends by studying extreme consumers.

Resources & Links:

• Learn more about Sanofi Consumer Healthcare

You can reach out to Val Pastrana on LinkedIn.

Many thanks to Val Pastrana for being our guest. Thanks also to our production team and our editor at Big Bad Audio.