Lisa Park

Lisa Park, MBA@UNC Class of 2025
Manager, Global Product Development & Supply (GPS) Emerging Leaders Program, Bristol Myers Squibb

 

Briefly describe your experience in landing this role. What challenges did you overcome?

Earning a spot in BMS’s GPS program was a defining milestone in my career transition. The rigorous selection process demanded weeks of preparation. I studied every aspect of BMS from their culture, mission to their patient-first values. The biggest hurdle was transitioning from a research scientist to a leader in business operations, but my MBA helped me bridge that gap. The key was framing my unique perspective as an asset.

 

How did the UNC MBA program help you secure this opportunity?

I came to UNC KF with the goal to pivot from research into biopharma leadership. Without prior experience, I needed to develop core skills in operations, finance, and strategy, and the MBA program delivered exactly that. Through classes, team projects, and mentorship from peers and faculty, UNC MBA equipped me with the business acumen to understand how corporations drive value and make strategic decisions. Perhaps most importantly, I learned to articulate the value I bring in ways that engage diverse audiences meaningfully.

 

What are your long-term career goals?

My long-term vision is to become an effective leader who drives operational excellence in biopharma. The Emerging Leader’s program will provide the foundation to master end-to-end drug development, from manufacturing to global supply chain strategy. Ultimately, I aim to lead teams that accelerate the delivery of breakthrough treatments. I see myself growing into a role where I can shape the future of how life-saving medicines reach those who need them.

 

Is there anyone (e.g., faculty, peers, mentors) you’d like to recognize for their support?

Huge shoutout to my incredible career coach, Camille Mason, who was with me every step of this career pivot. From helping me discover my professional identity to refining my resume and interview approach, she taught me to trust the process. Her thoughtful, empathetic guidance became both my compass and my emotional anchor. Academically, I’m deeply grateful to: Ashraf Jaffer (Accounting) and Amanda Thompson (Finance) for patiently building my business foundations. John Steigerwald and Atul Nerkar (Strategy) for showing me how to think like a biopharma executive.