Dechra Pharmaceuticals Limited (Dechra) today announces the appointment of a new North American President
August 6, 2024
Laura Olsen will join Dechra as the new President, of North America, effective from the 9 September, bringing a wealth of experience in animal and human health, having previously worked at Zoetis, Pfizer, and Novartis.
Most recently Laura has run her own company, Laura Olsen Coaching and Consulting, where she has served as a trusted partner and executive coach to a broad range of clients.
Laura’s 25 year career has been dedicated to delivering business results and developing colleagues while moving up through the ranks at Zoetis. Her most recent post at Zoetis was serving as the Senior Vice President, U.S. Petcare where she consistently delivered double-digit, above-market revenue growth. She led the largest business unit with revenue of over $3B and a workforce of over 600 across sales, marketing, strategic accounts, and veterinary professional services.
Prior to this role, she was promoted to Head of Marketing, Petcare. She was responsible for coaching, leading, and empowering the U.S. Petcare marketing team for the multi billion Petcare business. Laura was also credited with market development and launch planning for two breakthrough drugs, Apoquel and Cytopoint, which led to growth in the pruritic market by 200% in 4 years. As Director of Therapeutics Marketing, she was responsible for the performance of Zoetis' Dermatology, Pain, Anti-Infective, and Anti-Emetic business for the U.S. Petcare division.
Earlier in her career, Laura was the Brand Manager, Primary Care Portfolio & Innovation Marketing Team at Pfizer Pharmaceutical Corporation. She drove the launch of Pfizer’s customer-focused closed-loop marketing model company-wide.
“We are excited to welcome Laura to our team," said Jesper Nordengaard, Dechra CEO. "Her extensive experience in delivering outstanding business results and her proven track record of developing and empowering colleagues will be crucial as we continue to shape and invest in Dechra's future." Laura will join the Executive team, where her expertise will be invaluable in driving our strategic initiatives forward.
"Joining Dechra is an exciting opportunity for me," said Laura. "I am eager to contribute to the company's continued success and work alongside such a talented team. Together, we will shape and invest in Dechra's future, driving innovation and achieving our ambitious goals. I am particularly committed to enhancing our customer-centric approach, ensuring that we continue to meet and exceed the needs of veterinary professionals and the animals they serve."
Laura has a Bachelor of Science in International Affairs, International Politics, and Economics Concentration from the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University.
Please join us in welcoming Laura to the Dechra team!