For over 150 years, Eli Lilly has been a leader in healthcare innovation, driven by a clear mission to make life better for people worldwide. This commitment resonates deeply in Taiwan, where the company has been a steadfast partner to the healthcare ecosystem for nearly six decades.

Under the leadership of Lauren Lazowski, newly appointed general manager of Lilly Taiwan, the organization is poised to expand its impact and address some of Taiwan’s most pressing healthcare challenges.

“Our mission has always been about improving lives,” says Lazowski, who recently marked her two-month anniversary in Taiwan. “Eli Lilly’s commitment to science and innovation is unparalleled, and I’m excited to continue to support that legacy in Taiwan, where we have a strong foundation and incredible potential for growth.”

Globally, Eli Lilly is renowned for its groundbreaking contributions to medicine, investing over 27% of its revenue – approximately US$9.3 billion – in research and development (R&D) in 2023 alone. Nearly one-fourth of the company’s workforce is dedicated to R&D, focusing on therapeutic areas like diabetes, oncology, immunology, and neuroscience. This relentless pursuit of scientific excellence is mirrored in Taiwan, where Lilly invested over US$23 million in 2024 to conduct more than 60 clinical trials.

“Our strong investment in Taiwan’s clinical trials highlights its outstanding healthcare system and medical talent,” Lazowski says. “We aim to not only innovate but also make these innovations accessible to patients here.”

Lilly Taiwan’s collaborations with local institutions present more examples of this commitment. In 2022, the company partnered with the National Health Research Institute (NHRI) on a precision medicine initiative, and in 2024, it signed an MOU with National Taiwan University Hospital (NTUH) to develop decentralized clinical trial programs.

As Taiwan transitions into a super-aged society, it faces a growing burden of chronic diseases such as dementia, diabetes, and obesity. Lazowski recognizes these challenges but sees them as opportunities for collaboration and innovation.

“Taiwan’s aging population presents unique healthcare demands,” she notes. “By working with stakeholders across government, academia, and the healthcare industry, we aim to create solutions that address these needs while ensuring the sustainability of the healthcare system.”

One area of focus is Alzheimer’s disease, where early diagnosis and treatment are critical. Lazowski emphasizes Lilly’s role in driving awareness with its dedication to discover and develop new treatment options to improve patient outcomes and support caregivers. Similarly, the company’s robust pipeline in cardiometabolic health and obesity management is poised to tackle the chronic disease challenges associated with aging.

Lilly’s mission extends beyond its medicines to its people. The company’s corporate culture is built on integrity, excellence, and respect for people, ultimately with a shared purpose of improving lives. Lazowski herself is a testament to Lilly’s commitment to employee development. Over her 14-year journey with the company, she has held roles across therapeutic areas and geographies.

“At Lilly, we empower our employees to grow by providing diverse career opportunities and encouraging leadership at every level,” she says. “This approach not only strengthens our organization but also ensures we can deliver the best outcomes for patients.”

In Taiwan, Lilly has set an ambitious goal of improving the lives of 1 million patients through its medicines in 2024. This aspiration is supported by collaboration with multi-stakeholders in the healthcare industry across government, academics, medical societies, patient group, and industry peers on various therapeutic areas.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are cornerstones of Lilly’s strategy. One example is seen in gender equality where women make up 50% of the company’s global workforce, a figure mirrored in Taiwan, where women hold key leadership positions. Beyond the workplace, Lilly actively promotes DEI through community engagement and public awareness campaigns.

In 2024, Lilly Taiwan sponsored the LGBTQ+ Pride Parade, Asia’s largest, with employees and their families participating in the event. The company also collaborated with the Taiwan Alzheimer’s Disease Association to raise awareness about the importance of early diagnosis and care for dementia patients.

“DEI is not just about representation – it’s about creating an environment where diverse perspectives drive innovation,” Lazowski explains. “Our work in Taiwan reflects this commitment, from inclusive clinical trials to community partnerships.”

As Lazowski leads Lilly Taiwan into the future, her vision is clear: to expand the company’s impact by addressing unmet healthcare needs and fostering partnerships that enhance Taiwan’s healthcare system.

“Our pipeline includes exciting advancements in Alzheimer’s disease, neuroscience, obesity, and cardiometabolic health,” she says. “We’re committed to bringing these innovations to Taiwan and helping more patients achieve better health.”

With a strong foundation of scientific excellence, a collaborative approach to healthcare challenges, and a culture that values people and purpose, Eli Lilly is poised to make an even greater impact in Taiwan. As Lazowski aptly puts it, “At Lilly, our mission is to make life better for people – and that mission drives everything we do.”