Founder and CEO of Aconitum UAB pharmaceutical manufacturing company
Biography
Dr. Rima Balanaškienė, a seasoned professional with a remarkable 30-year journey in the medical and pharmaceutical sector, epitomizes the intersection of expertise and innovation. A medical doctor by education, Dr. Rima Balanaškienė embarked on a dynamic career that seamlessly blended medical knowledge with strategic leadership.
In 1993, Dr. Rima Balanaškienė entered the medical sector as a sales manager, quickly ascending to the position of Head of Sales and Marketing at the largest local pharmaceutical distributor and manufacturer by 1996. A pivotal moment arrived in 1999 when Dr. Rima Balanaškienė founded Aconitum, UAB, a pharmaceutical manufacturing company that stands today as a leading force in the Baltic countries. As the sole owner and CEO, Dr. Rima Balanaškienė has masterfully navigated the complexities of the pharmaceutical landscape.
Over 24 years at Aconitum, Dr. Rima Balanaškienė honed expertise in every facet of pharmaceutical management, from new product development and regulatory affairs to manufacturing optimization and international marketing. Under Dr. Rima Balanaškienė's leadership, Aconitum achieved significant milestones, including acquiring a GMP certificate, developing numerous medicine dossiers and food supplements, securing a prominent position in Lithuania's nutraceutical market, and exporting to over 70 countries.
Beyond corporate success, Dr. Rima Balanaškienė is a multifaceted professional. As a producer, presenter, and editor, Dr. Rima Balanaškienė contributed significantly to the media landscape, hosting a health TV show and overseeing multiple health publications. This dual role provided a unique vantage point to observe industry trends and disseminate health knowledge.
Dr. Rima Balanaškienė has received notable recognition for her contributions. A finalist in the "EU Prize for Women Innovators" contest in 2018, she went on to earn a nomination in the "Excellence in Pharma: CEO of the Year" category at the CPHI Pharma Awards in 2020. In 2021, Dr. Rima Balanaškienė was honored as one of the 20 most innovative women in Europe, featured in G. Palma's book "20 Women for Innovation."
Dedicated to shaping health policy, Dr. Rima Balanaškienė established the National Pharmaceutical Industry Association in 2006 and continues to serve as its President. Actively engaged in the Health Technologies and Biotechnology Working Group of the Innovation Agency of Lithuania since 2022, Dr. Rima Balanaškienė remains at the forefront of driving positive change in the healthcare landscape.
In 2021, Dr. Rima Balanaškienė assumed roles on the Kaunas municipality Business Board and as a board member of SMK University of Applied Sciences and WOW University exclusively for women, showcasing a commitment to community and education. Through her radio show on health since 2019, Dr. Rima Balanaškienė extends her passion for health to a broader audience, solidifying her impact on both the professional and public spheres.