In 2023, the global over-the-counter (OTC) drug market was valued at $49.68 billion—and that number’s projected to continue growing. On November 16th, 2023, the Professional Science Master’s program spotlighted this unique industry by inviting three esteemed speakers to share their insights with students.
The panel was moderated by a new MBS faculty member, Dr. Jay Goldring. The OTC industry presents a unique opportunity for MBS students. The industry is a hybrid of both marketing and science. OTC medications are regulated as drugs and often marketed as personal care products, said Goldring.
New Jersey is a prime location for the OTC industry, with some major OTC organizations hosting their headquarters within the state—including Kenvue and Haleon.
Each panelist shared their professional journey, insights and opportunities, and tips on how to succeed in the industry. Here are some key takeaways from the presentations.
Kyle Brogden – Kenvue, Director of Global OTC R&D
Brogden currently works at Kenvue as director of Global OTC Research and Development (R&D). He started his career at Colgate-Palmolive as a bench scientist. He developed his skills to be technically flexible and diverse, becoming a well-rounded scientist.
Brogden shared his daily responsibilities as an R&D leader. He also discussed opportunities in the OTC industry, highlighting technical opportunities in product development and cross-functional opportunities. He encouraged students to make a difference by giving back to their communities.
To be a leader, said Brogden, you need to develop your technical knowledge and skills as well as your leadership skills. He added that it’s important for scientists to be “scientists plus,” obtaining business skills and understanding how to be profitable to appeal to stakeholders and investors.
He also advised students to learn about the external environment affecting the OTC industry including the FDA, DEA, medical behavior, and consumer behavior.
Lauren Quinn – Haleon, VP US Regulatory Affairs
Quinn currently works at HALEON as Vice President of United States Regulatory Affairs. Quinn is a Rutgers alum, receiving her undergraduate degree here. She also holds a Juris Doctor from Seton Hall University School of Law.
Quinn realized that she loved regulatory affairs. She enjoyed the mission and purpose of making lives better everyday. From here, she grew her career, working in both domestic and global roles.
She advised students on how to achieve their desired roles. Look at the type of job you want, Quinn told students, and measure what skills are listed in the job description and compare this to skills you already have. Figure out how to acquire these missing skills through other positions.
Susan Levy - SBL Consulting Group, Founder and Principal
Susan Levy is the founder and principal of SBL Consulting Group. This group consults in the health and wellness space and is guided by project management and entrepreneurial spirit.
Levy admires the OTC industry because it’s driven by consumer insight. In consumer healthcare companies, it’s important for innovations to increase shareholder value and efficiently reach the marketplace. Levy highlighted an issue faced in the OTC industry—consumer trust and how to reestablish credibility with consumers. Additionally, the sector of consumer healthcare has grown dramatically over the past few decades to encompass devices such as mobile applications, electronic toothbrushes, and more. This requires new insights in R&D.
Levy shared parting thoughts with students. Echoing the sentiments of Brogden and Quinn, she encouraged students to raise their hands and volunteer for new opportunities.
MBS student during Q&A 
Speakers and students mingling 
Virtual attendees joined via Zoom
Ultimately, the OTC industry is unique because it combines the areas of consumer science and business. It requires specialized knowledge in all areas, and it is an incredibly rewarding field.
Many thanks to Brogden, Quinn and Levy for sharing expertise with students!
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