Amar Urhekar Takes Leadership as New CEO of Avalere Health

On December 12, 2024, Avalere Health, a prominent global strategic partner in the healthcare arena, officially announced the appointment of Amar Urhekar as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This decision marks a significant shift in leadership, as Urhekar previously served as the Chief Operations Officer (COO) at Avalere Health, a role he assumed in 2023. His appointment comes after 18 months of successfully streamlining operations and creating a unified global interdisciplinary offering across the product lifecycle.

The Vision Ahead

As CEO, Urhekar will oversee Avalere Health’s operations, which are structured around three cornerstone capabilities: Advisory, Medical, and Marketing. These divisions are designed to collaborate and innovate, providing comprehensive solutions to tackle some of the most challenging issues within the healthcare sector.

Deborah Keller, Chairperson at Avalere Health, expressed enthusiasm over Urhekar's appointment, highlighting his commitment to purpose-driven organizational goals and his ability to inspire both colleagues and clients. “Amar has a passion for purpose-driven organizations that can truly make a difference,” Keller remarked, emphasizing Urhekar's profound grasp of the health industry, which she believes positions Avalere in a secure future.

A New Era of Leadership

Urhekar's vision focuses on uniting Avalere’s diverse teams across the globe to enhance leadership and talent. He aims to innovate strategic solutions for biopharmaceutical clients and their patients, aware of the complex healthcare ecosystem involving multiple stakeholders like healthcare providers, payers, policymakers, and patients themselves.

"Clients need partners who can navigate the intricate tapestry of these stakeholders effectively," Urhekar stated. He underlined the necessity for strategic partnerships that can comprehend and adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape. This includes facilitating investment decisions in healthcare assets, understanding policy implications, and enhancing market access needs.

John Gransee, the Chief Finance and Administrative Officer, expressed high confidence in Urhekar, noting his strategic thinking and innovative methods as vital for driving success. His impressive background spans multiple organizations, including IPG, Ashfield Health, and most recently, Inizio Evoke, where he instigated transformative initiatives critical for advancing business growth.

Fostering a United Workforce

The company's Chief People Officer, Harriet Shurville, echoed sentiments regarding Urhekar's leadership style, recognizing his ability to motivate and clarify Avalere's purpose to its workforce. This clarity facilitates an organizational culture that aligns with the company's strategic objectives and inspires collective effort toward shared goals.

Urhekar succeeds Jon Koch, the former CEO, as part of a planned leadership transition. Koch's tenure over the last three and a half years laid a solid foundation that Urhekar can build upon. Following his departure, Koch will remain connected to the organization in a strategic advisory capacity until March 2025.

A Bright Future for Avalere Health

With Urhekar at the helm, Avalere Health is poised to reach new heights in delivering comprehensive healthcare solutions. “I am excited about the journey ahead and look forward to collaborating with our teams to create a company that amplifies the patient voice like never before,” he declared, echoing a commitment to ensuring that no patient is overlooked in the healthcare landscape.

In conclusion, as healthcare continues to evolve, the leadership of Amar Urhekar will undoubtedly be pivotal in navigating its complexities, leveraging Avalere Health’s unique capabilities to drive forward-thinking solutions that address the needs of patients and stakeholders alike.

About Avalere Health

Avalere Health is recognized as a global strategic partner capable of addressing significant challenges in healthcare with both speed and effectiveness. Their integrated approach—merging Advisory, Medical, and Marketing capabilities—ensures that patients receive the support and care they deserve throughout their journeys.

Through collaboration and a patient-centered philosophy, Avalere Health seeks to create a world where healthcare barriers are eliminated, ensuring equitable treatment and support for all patients.