Kelly Huntington

Kelly Huntington is an accomplished leader in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry, currently serving as a Program Leader. With over a decade of experience spanning early- and late-phase development, Kelly specializes in global asset and program leadership, alliance management, and strategic execution across complex therapeutic areas, including oncology, immunology, and genetic diseases. Her career is marked by a strong track record of delivering innovative therapies for patients with unmet medical needs, including immuno-oncology antibodies and gene therapies for rare lysosomal disorders.
Throughout her career, Kelly has successfully led cross-functional and cross-organizational teams, translating high-level strategy into actionable milestones and measurable results. Her academic background in immunology from Drexel University College of Medicine, coupled with a BA in Biology from Colby College, gives her a scientific edge that enhances her leadership capabilities. Kelly is known not only for her strategic thinking and operational excellence but also for her collaborative approach and ability to foster high-performance cultures within her teams. Her dedication continues to shape the future of biotech innovation and patient care.
• HMX – Harvard Medical School
• Colby College- B.A.
• Drexel University College of Medicine
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my mother and grandmother who always challenged me to be my best.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Don't compare yourself to others, compete with yourself.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to be bold in pursuing your interests and to seek out mentors early—building confidence and strong support networks from the start can shape the course of your career.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biotechnology/pharmaceutical industry is currently challenged by retreating venture capital investment especially in areas like gene therapy. The biggest opportunity for biotechnology/pharmaceutical firms is to leverage AI (artificial intelligence) to maximize development efficiency to get deliver meaningful treatments to patients who desperately need them.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity is important to me in both in my work and personal life. Integrity provides peace of mind and self respect. It also instills trust in relationships resulting in a lasting reputation and the ability to influence others. It also makes decisions much easier and when you're faced with tough situations, it keeps one steady, grounded, and resilient.
Locations
Cambridge, MA 02139