Brandee Paknis

Bio:

Brandee Paknis, VP, Head of USMA, Neuroscience, serves as Vice President, and Head of US Medical Affairs, leading Neuroscience at Novartis, where she oversees the development and execution of medical strategy for key neuroscience assets. Her role encompasses leading medical teams in support of key products, such as Kesimpta (Multiple Sclerosis), Zolgensma (Spinal Muscular Atrophy), and emerging pipeline assets in Neuroimmunology, Neuromuscular and Neurodegeneration. She delivers the US Medical strategy for in-line and innovative pipeline assets.

Brandee’s prior position as VP, Head of Global Medical Affairs for Gene Therapies at Novartis highlights her experience leading cross-functional HQ and Field medical teams across geographies. She was responsible for peri-launch strategy for Zolgensma across the world, the ophthalmologic gene therapy Luxturna, and Ilaris for rare autoinflammatory diseases, cultivating a deep understanding of the unique needs of the rare disease community and stewardship of groundbreaking therapies. Her experience spans several therapeutic areas including Neurology, Dermatology, Allergy/Immunology, Respiratory, Ophthalmology, Gene Therapy, and Rare Diseases—showcasing flexibility and adaptability.

During her 15+ year tenure at Novartis, Brandee has held roles with increasing responsibility in US and Global, within Medical Affairs and Clinical Development. She has a wealth of experience across therapeutic areas including Neurology, Dermatology, Allergy/Immunology, Respiratory, Ophthalmology, Gene Therapy, and Rare Disease.

Brandee is committed to cultivating leadership environments where inspiration and curiosity drive performance, continually seeking “win-win” opportunities for patients, providers, and society at large. Her efforts to strengthen cross-functional and cross-geography collaboration have helped build a culture of co-creation within Novartis Medical Affairs.

Outside of her professional life, Brandee enjoys living in Los Angeles with her husband and 11 year old son, embracing sunshine, hiking, and travel – bringing a well-rounded, energetic approach to both work and life!