12 questions with Kevin Asher

Leadership spotlight: Kevin Asher on the evolving role of Medical Affairs

As the pharmaceutical industry navigates shifting regulatory policies, evolving scientific evidence, and increasing commercial complexity, Medical Affairs plays an important role in connecting scientific insight with strategic decision-making across functions.

In a recent interview, Kevin Asher, Partner and Medical Practice Lead at Acumetis, reflects on his career spanning more than 15 years in Medical Affairs, from his early experience in NHS HIV medicine to leading country and global medical strategies at Roche and Allergan, followed by commercial leadership at Mundipharma.

Kevin shares how these experiences have shaped his approach to navigating uncertainty, translating evidence into actionable strategies, and building stronger connections between Medical Affairs, commercial teams, and market access. He also discusses the challenges of long drug development timelines amid rapidly changing policies, his focus on clarity and transparency in leadership, and the importance of mentoring the next generation of industry professionals.

“I focus my own work, and encourage my team to focus theirs, on asking the tough questions the moment something isn’t clear, rather than letting ambiguity sit.”

— Kevin Asher, Partner and Medical Practice Lead at Acumetis

The interview also explores the challenges of long drug development timelines amid rapidly changing policies, the growing importance of cross-functional collaboration, and Kevin’s commitment to mentoring the next generation of industry professionals.

→ Read the full interview to explore Kevin’s perspectives on leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and the challenges shaping the future of Medical Affairs.