Sally Susman

Executive Vice President & Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Pfizer

About This Expert

Sally Susman, with her illustrious career and unwavering dedication to public service, stands as a beacon of leadership in the corporate world. As the Executive Vice President and Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Pfizer, Sally’s influence extends well beyond the confines of the company, resonating across the global healthcare landscape. Her role encompasses the vital task of managing Pfizer’s reputation, a responsibility she handles with remarkable skill and finesse. Under her stewardship, Pfizer’s communications, public affairs, and philanthropic initiatives are executed with a blend of strategic insight and compassionate engagement.

Sally’s journey with Pfizer began in 2007, and over the years, she has become a cornerstone of the company’s Executive Leadership Team. Her tenure is distinguished by her significant contributions to shaping corporate policies that align with Pfizer’s expansive global vision. Her deep understanding of both the pharmaceutical industry and the broader corporate environment has allowed her to navigate complex challenges with a strategic approach that consistently upholds Pfizer’s values and objectives.

In addition to her role at Pfizer, Sally serves as Vice Chair of the Pfizer Foundation, where she has been a driving force behind global public health initiatives. Her efforts in this capacity highlight her commitment to addressing critical health issues and improving healthcare access worldwide. Through the Foundation, Sally has championed numerous projects aimed at enhancing health outcomes and fostering sustainable development in underserved communities.

Sally is also the author of the acclaimed book Breaking Through: Communicating to Open Minds, Move Hearts, and Change the World. Published on March 28, 2023, and recognized as a Wall Street Journal Bestseller, the book provides an insightful exploration of effective communication in a tumultuous world.

Sally’s leadership is characterized by her ability to blend strategic acumen with a genuine dedication to societal betterment. Her work not only reflects her personal commitment to public service but also underscores Pfizer’s broader mission to contribute positively to global health and wellbeing. Her legacy is one of profound impact, marked by her steadfast commitment to excellence and her enduring contributions to both Pfizer and the global community.

 

Sally Susman and Public Service

Public service is a thread that runs deep in Sally's narrative. Her eight-year commitment to government service saw her concentrating on international trade issues. She served as the Legislative Assistant for the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation from 1984 to 1990. Later, she took on the role of Deputy Assistant Secretary for Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs at the U.S Department of Commerce between 1993 and 1995. Sally's influence extends to electoral politics as well. She has been an integral part of the Finance Committee of the Democratic National Committee and played a pivotal role as the Finance Chair for Christine Quinn’s mayoral bid in New York City in 2013. Her philanthropic spirit is evident in her association with the International Rescue Committee and the New York Botanical Garden. Sally's past contributions to the board of the U.S. Library of Congress further highlight her dedication to community and culture. Recognized by PRWeek as one of "The 20 Most Influential Communicators" over the past two decades, Sally embodies the essence of a modern Chief Communications Officer. Her accolades don't stop there. In 2018, she graced City & State's "New York Women’s Power 100" list and has been a LinkedIn Influencer since June of that year. Her insights frequently find their way into newspapers, magazines, and broadcast programs, making her a sought-after voice in the industry. Before her impactful journey with Pfizer, Sally showcased her prowess in business, government, and communications. She served as the Executive Vice President of Global Communications at The Estee Lauder Companies for seven years, where she was the driving force behind corporate affairs for a staggering 28 brands. Her expertise also shone through during her tenure at American Express between 1990 and 2000. Here, she undertook several pivotal communications and government relations roles, including a significant stint in London overseeing operations across Europe. Education has played a pivotal role in shaping Sally's worldview. She holds a B.A. in government from Connecticut College and has enriched her knowledge at the London School of Economics. On a personal note, Sally shares her life with her wife, Robin, and their daughter, Lily. They reside in New York City but hold a special place in their hearts for Sag Harbor, NY. In 2022, Forbes recognized Sally as one of the World’s Most Influential CMOs, a nod to her exceptional leadership during Pfizer’s brand refresh and the narrative around its COVID-19 vaccine. Sally Susman's journey, marked by achievements and service, makes her an exemplary figure, perfectly embodying the essence of leadership and dedication.

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