Pfizer appoints Rodrigo Puga as Cluster President for Middle East, Russia and Africa
Pfizer has announced the appointment of Rodrigo Puga as Cluster President for the Middle East, Russia, and Africa (MERA). In his new role, Puga will oversee the company’s operations across the region, leading strategy, performance, and partnerships to ensure broader patient access to breakthrough medical innovations.
His leadership will cover Pfizer’s diverse portfolio, including vaccines, oncology, rare diseases, internal medicine, and inflammation and immunology. Puga will work closely with governments, stakeholders, and partners to advance sustainable healthcare growth across the MERA region.
Reflecting on his appointment, Puga highlighted the opportunity to build on three decades of global experience at Pfizer:
“Over the past three decades, I’ve had the privilege of working in many markets, each with its own challenges and opportunities. Taking on the leadership of MERA is an exciting new chapter, where I hope to accelerate access, strengthen local capabilities, and set new standards in healthcare for the communities we serve.”
He also noted the unique diversity of the MERA region, pointing to both its complexity and potential: “From fast-growing economies investing in health infrastructure to markets pioneering digital health, MERA is where Pfizer can make a real difference by combining global science with local insights.”
Puga brings nearly 30 years of experience at Pfizer, during which he has held senior leadership roles worldwide. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President and U.S. Business Lead for Internal Medicine, managing Pfizer’s cardiovascular, metabolic, and women’s health portfolio. His career highlights include leading successful business turnarounds, launching new products, expanding market access, and overseeing acquisitions and integrations.
He has also served as Country President in Mexico, Colombia, and Peru, as well as holding senior global positions such as Global Marketing Lead for Internal Medicine and Vice President, Global Talent Lead.
