Legal director | Laboratórios Pfizer
Shirley Meschke Mendes Franklin de Oliveira
Legal director | Laboratórios Pfizer
How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience?
I work constructively and collaboratively with other members of the Legal Division and business colleagues, defining the legal strategic priorities and agreeing on expectations, outcomes, and metrics. It can be challenging, especially in a highly matrixed organisation, so it is critical to have strong interpersonal, organisational and communication skills.
What are the major cases or transactions you have been involved in recently?
I provide strategic counselling on Global Access and Value Strategies, alongside legal advice on the impact of new EU regulations. My work includes local negotiations of tech transfer partnerships to supply key products to the Ministry of Health in international markets, offering guidance and oversight on access and pricing. I also support changes to the business model and corporate reorganisation. Additionally, I handle innovative market access agreements across various markets, focusing on value-based healthcare partnerships and patient support programs. I assist the International Pharmaceuticals Association in WHO pandemic preparedness negotiations and engage in exploratory talks around payment solutions to finance treatments. My role extends to providing legal support for strategic tenders and driving the expansion of digital health solutions that significantly reduce the time patients need to access information, diagnosis, and treatment.
What measures has your company taken to embed sustainability practices into its core business operations, and how does the role of the general counsel contribute to driving and ensuring sustainable practices within the company?
My company has defined its purpose as ‘breakthroughs that change patients’ lives.’ The global core business principles are clearly communicated and integrated into the organisation’s strategic plan. The Legal Division plays a critical role in providing strategic counselling and solutions that enable the company to fulfil its purpose, protect its value, and position itself as a pioneer in emerging areas.
What emerging technologies do you see as having the most significant impact on the legal profession in the near future, and how do you stay updated on these developments?
AI and Generative AI are positively impacting the day-to-day work of in-house counsels. They help lawyers prioritise and focus on what is important, which requires internal alignment, external connections, and a multidisciplinary approach. New hard skills are needed in Digital and Privacy laws, while soft skills have become even more relevant. Flexibility and the courage to embrace diverse experiences are essential to gain new abilities and understand future trends in the health sector.
How do you prioritise diversity and inclusion within your legal department, and what initiatives have you implemented to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment?
When I was managing South Latin America, I created an Equity Program and established the following vision: ‘To be a diverse and inclusive team where everyone feels respected and welcomed, and is equally able to realise their potential and achieve their goals. To act as a promoter, partner, and facilitator of equity with internal and external stakeholders in the pursuit of a more just and equal society.’ I defined a strategic plan that encompasses both internal and external actions.
In your opinion, what are the main trends that are salient in your country currently (these can be legal, political, economy or business-based)?
In my current position, I provide legal support to all international markets (excluding the US). The main trends in legal Pricing and Access include the review of Health Technology Assessment regulations, as well as the impact of digital health on the business models of companies in the health sector.
Legal director | Laboratórios Pfizer
After three years in the position of legal director of Pfizer Brazil, Shirley Meschke Mendes Franklin de Oliveira was designated to perform additional roles of cluster legal lead position for...
