Desiree de Raad
Desiree de Raad (She/Her) is an accomplished international pharmaceutical professional with extensive experience across the Netherlands, Canada, and France. With a strong foundation in pharmaceutical sales, digital marketing, and strategic brand management, she has built a career spanning rare diseases, neuroscience, pulmonology, immunology, and rheumatology. Fluent in English and Dutch and skilled in French, Desiree brings a global perspective and a proven track record of performance, cross-functional collaboration, and market impact.
Throughout her career, Desiree has excelled in both traditional and digital marketing, leading data-driven initiatives that elevate brand visibility and deepen engagement with healthcare professionals. She has developed and executed innovative digital disease-awareness campaigns, guided strategic product positioning, and contributed to major product launches across Europe and North America. As an Account Manager for C2Connect, she partners with life science organizations to strengthen their online presence through targeted content, impactful digital channels, and analytics-based decision-making.
Known for her relationship-building skills and dedication to delivering measurable results, Desiree combines strategic insight with an energetic, collaborative approach. Her passion for creating meaningful connections, whether with clients, partners, or cross-functional teams, continues to fuel her success in dynamic, highly competitive markets. Beyond her professional achievements, she is committed to community involvement, currently serving as Events Chair for the French American Academy PTO while raising her multilingual family in the United States.
• The Habits of Successful Marketers
• Developing a Mentoring Program
• Writing a Marketing Plan
• Leadership: Practical Skills
• Leading Yourself
• New Manager Foundations
• CMO Foundations: Driving Innovation
• Influencing Others
• Negotiation Foundations
• Erasmus University Rotterdam - MS
• Erasmus University Rotterdam - BS
• Award Innovation & Collaboration RE Rare Diseases Unit - 2021
• Award Innovation & Collaboration RE Rare Diseases Unit - 2020
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a genuine interest in people, their stories, their needs, and the connections that shape meaningful relationships. This focus has guided every step of my professional journey, allowing me to build trust, foster collaboration, and create environments where others feel understood and supported.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that it is never too late to follow your dreams and pursue the work you truly love. This guidance has encouraged me to stay open to new opportunities, embrace growth at every stage, and remain confident in choosing paths that align with my purpose and passion.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to pursue real, meaningful connections, think creatively and beyond conventional approaches, and be willing to take chances that support your growth. Each bold step you take builds confidence, expands opportunity, and strengthens your path forward.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest opportunities in my field right now come from the ability to connect with people around the world and learn from diverse experiences, perspectives, and expertise. This global exchange strengthens collaboration and opens doors to new ideas. One of the greatest challenges, however, is the rapid evolution of AI. While it brings significant potential, it also requires continuous adaptation, thoughtful use, and a commitment to preserving authenticity and human connection in the process.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Authenticity is the value that guides me in both my work and personal life. I believe in showing up as my true self, being honest in my intentions, and building relationships founded on trust and sincerity. This commitment allows me to create meaningful connections, make grounded decisions, and maintain integrity in everything I do.