How Moderna Empowers Talent and Navigates Change in Biotech with Dr. Jerh Collins

Great leaders are defined not by the answers they have, but by the people they empower.

In this episode of The Heidrick & Struggles Leadership Podcast, Jeff Boyd speaks with Dr. Jerh Collins, Chief Technical Operations and Quality Officer at Moderna, about how today’s most effective biotech leaders are rethinking talent, resilience, and innovation at scale.

With nearly 30 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, including senior leadership at Novartis, Dr. Collins explains what makes a leader effective today.

He emphasizes that talent is the foundation of successful leadership. He highlights the significance of mentorship, accountability, and creating psychologically safe environments for people to grow.

He also explores how AI is reshaping biopharma, outlining both its potential benefits and risks, while noting that being an early adopter isn’t optional if you want to lead in the future.

Tune in to learn how talent, mindset, and innovation come together at the core of great leadership.


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Key Takeaways:

Introduction (00:00)
Dr. Jerh Collins’ leadership journey (01:11)
Talent management and leadership principles (02:47)
The role of mentorship and apprenticeship (04:00)
Staying resilient during global uncertainty (05:29)
Leading teams through dynamic change (07:24)
AI in biopharma: opportunities and risks (08:29)
Why leaders must cultivate self-awareness (10:36)
Dr. Jerh’s key leadership lessons (12:40)


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Additional Resources:

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