Animal Pharm today announced Zoetis CEO Juan Ramón Alaix as the first inductee into the publication’s recently established Hall of Fame. The Animal Pharm Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who are leaders in the industry and have had a lasting impact on animal health.

“The Zoetis chief executive is perhaps the most influential person in the animal health sector, as he guides the industry's largest firm,” wrote Animal Pharm Editor Joe Harvey. “He has been instrumental in transforming the company from a segment of Pfizer to a dynamic standalone animal health multinational with more than 9,000 employees. Mr Alaix fronted Zoetis as it went public and has since established himself as one of the most recognized faces in the industry.”

Valued by Colleagues and Peers 

This honor not only showcases the high esteem Juan Ramón holds with animal health industry influencers, it also reflects great respect from his colleagues and peers.

“We are grateful for his unwavering commitment to the development of solutions that enable the success of our customers. I can think of no one more deserving than Juan Ramon to be the inaugural inductee to the Hall of Fame,” said Catherine Knupp, Zoetis EVP and President of Research & Development.

“We could not be prouder to see him honored in the Hall of Fame. His strategic vision, steady hand and customer focus continue to keep Zoetis on a course for future success,” said Roxanne Lagano, Zoetis EVP and Chief Human Resources Officer and Communications.

“He is a great guy, has done a superb job at Zoetis and thoroughly deserves this accolade," said George Gunn, founder and chief executive of Stonehaven Consulting and previous chief executive of Novartis Animal Health.

Juan Ramón Shines in Interview with Animal Pharm 

Along with announcing Juan Ramón as their Hall of Fame inductee, Animal Pharm sat down with the CEO for an in-depth interview discussing his career, the animal health industry, his motivations and advice for others.

"You need to deliver your commitments, and focus on creating a team that will help you deliver results. Focus on both developing the individuals and the team. Also, make sure you are creating value for the short term and also for the long term,” shared Juan Ramón. "As a CEO, you need to understand the trends and you need to make sure you are responding to these trends faster than your competitors. The only way to understand the trends is to be close to the market and the customers. As a CEO, you cannot sit in an ivory tower."

Read the full interview on Animal Pharm.