Back to School? Judy Li on MBA Programs and the future of Statisticians
Erik Bloomquist (Merck) and Maria Kudela (Pfizer)
Highlights
Discover Dr. Judy Li's journey at The Wharton School in 2023 to pursuit an Executive MBA in Strategic Management. Her experience offers insights for statisticians contemplating a similar path, highlighting the significant impact on her career trajectory.
Learn how Dr. Judy Li's MBA experience reshaped her perspective, integrating disciplines like global economy and technology into her work. This strategic education has empowered her to make executive-level, data-driven decisions, enhancing her effectiveness as a strategic leader.
Explore how Dr. Judy Li's MBA program not only expanded her business acumen but also honed her leadership skills. Her inspiring journey underscores the importance of "soft skills", crucial for guiding others in the dynamic healthcare sector.
Dr. Judy Li serves as the Head of Hematology Strategy for Late Oncology Statistics at AstraZeneca, where she provides leadership and expertise in oncology statistics. Her work emphasizes strategic planning, technical oversight, functional development, and operational guidance. Dr. Li plays a pivotal role in propelling the field of hematology statistics forward. Throughout her career, Dr. Li has held senior leadership positions in both the biopharmaceutical and biotech sectors, making significant contributions at organizations including Bristol Myers Squibb, Celgene, and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals. Prior to her industry tenure, she garnered extensive experience at the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a master statistical reviewer and supervisory mathematical statistician. She has clinical development experience across multiple therapeutic areas including oncology, hematology, immunology, neurology, cell therapy, as well as special clinical settings for multiregional clinical trials and rare disease.
Dr. Li has been an active member of the American Statistical Association (ASA) Biopharmaceutical Section Executive Board for over a decade, where she has taken on various roles, including co-founder of the Safety Monitor Working Group and chair of the 2019 Regulatory Industry Statistics Workshop, along with chairing the poster competition section and membership committee. She also serves on the board of directors and the advisory council of the Bay Area Biotech-Pharma Statistics Workshop. Additionally, she is the editor of the book “Quantitative Methodologies and Process for Safety Monitoring and Ongoing Benefit Risk Evaluation”. Her research work has been highly acknowledged with the FDA Office of Chief Scientist and received the Intramural Grant award for two consecutive years.
She is currently running for ASA 2026 chair-elect of the Biopharmaceutical Section.
In 2023, Judy decided to return to school at The Wharton School to pursue an Executive MBA degree in Strategic Management with a focus on healthcare industry. We asked her about this decision, its impact on her career thus far, and any advice for statisticians considering a similar move.
What motivated you to go back to school at this point in your career?
I frequently receive this question, and I appreciate the opportunity to share my journey here!
Returning to school after over 15 years in the workforce was a significant decision for me. In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, particularly with the rise of technology and AI, the role of statisticians in the pharmaceutical industry is continually transforming. As the emphasis on big data grows, statisticians are assuming increasingly critical roles in the decision-making process. I realized that just having technical skills wouldn’t be enough to make a real impact. A deeper understanding of business, economics, and the operational aspects underlying these decisions has become essential. This knowledge is crucial for turning data and insights into meaningful, data-driven decisions.
I also think a lot about how we can develop our talent and support the next generation of statisticians as they face their own challenges. It became clear to me that enhancing “soft skills” is essential, particularly in areas such as effective communication as a leader, efficient management of a large global team, and the creation of a welcoming environment for diverse employees.
That's why an MBA program seemed like the perfect opportunity to get the structured training I needed in these areas. It not only boosted my business knowledge but also helped me build the leadership skills to inspire and guide others in this fast-paced field. Going for an Executive MBA felt like the right move to reach my potential and make a positive impact in my organization and beyond, and I'm really glad I made that choice!
What field or program were you considering pursuing (was it only MBA?), and what drew you to it?
I decided to pursue my MBA at Wharton, recognized as one of the top business schools globally. What drew me to the Executive MBA program there is that its curriculum is just as rigorous and comprehensive as the full-time MBA, the only difference being that classes are scheduled on weekends. My focus on strategic management with a concentration in the healthcare industry fits perfectly with my current role and my passion for making a positive impact in the healthcare field.
How did you think this program would impact your current career path or new opportunities? Were your expectations met after you graduated? Do you think the experience has been beneficial for your career?
Absolutely—more than 100%!
The MBA experience has significantly broadened my mindset, integrating disciplines such as global economy, finance, operations, technology, and communications into my daily work, all while focusing on cultural leadership. It has given me a clearer perspective on tackling challenges and creating value, helping me become a more effective strategic leader capable of making executive-level, data-driven decisions—not just for the business, but for the patients who rely on our innovations.
Additionally, the relationships I’ve built through the Wharton network have been incredibly rewarding. Collaborating with talented individuals from diverse fields like tech, finance, and consulting has provided fresh perspectives that are crucial for a holistic approach to leadership. This collaborative environment has inspired me to think creatively and strategically, pushing me to explore my full potential.
I would also like to highlight that the impact of an MBA goes beyond just career advancement; it has shaped my overall outlook on life. I’ve become more strategic, value-driven, and rational in my thinking. For example, in my finance valuation class, our professor shared a powerful philosophy: a tree knows not to grow branches where there is no sunlight, much like how individuals and businesses should focus on opportunities that provide returns greater than their opportunity costs. Insights like this have been a recurring theme throughout nearly every lecture, and I believe these lessons will provide lifelong benefits.
How did you balance school with your other responsibilities, such as work and personal life?
This question often arises during MBA interviews because admissions committees understand that pursuing an MBA involves significant challenges that demand a strong commitment to succeed. Depending on the individual, an MBA program can require anywhere from 20 to 40 hours each week, which inevitably limits the time available for family and may occasionally result in missed workdays. Sleep is often compromised as well. It is vital to have open and proactive discussions with family, managers, and colleagues about these commitments prior to beginning the program. Establishing a supportive network is essential for effectively managing the challenges of an Executive MBA.
I feel fortunate to have a very supportive employer and a strong supporting family and network throughout this journey.
How was the application process? Did you find it difficult?
The application process was quite straightforward. The primary requirement for most schools is either the GMAT or an Executive Evaluation test for admission which necessitates some preparation in advance. Since the program emphasizes a strong quantitative background, having a degree in statistics or mathematics can give you a significant competitive edge during the application process 😊
Any advice or tips for those who are considering an MBA or other programs?
Understanding your priorities is crucial. What matters most to you right now? Going back to school may not be the right choice for everyone. However, for those who have thought it through and decided to pursue an MBA or another program, my advice is to do it sooner rather than later. The learning experience in these programs is intense and filled with valuable insights. Many people find it takes years after graduation to fully absorb what they’ve learned and apply it in real-life situations. The benefits of this education can have a lasting impact, so starting earlier allows you to take advantage of the skills and knowledge you acquire right away.
Final Thought, anything else you would like to share with our audience?
As Benjamin Franklin said, "An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest."
Chase your dreams fearlessly, engage in lifelong learning, and strive to make a difference. Remember, the sky is the limit!
We thanked Dr. Judy Li’s for sharing her story with us. Dr. Judy Li’s story is an inspiring testament to the power of adaptability, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of growth. Her ability to seamlessly blend technical expertise with strategic leadership has not only advanced her career but also elevated the impact of biopharmaceutical statistics on healthcare innovation. As she charts a new course with her Executive MBA, Dr. Li encourages all statisticians to embrace lifelong learning, take bold steps toward leadership, and leverage their unique skills to drive meaningful change. Her journey reminds us that with dedication, vision, and a commitment to excellence, the possibilities are truly limitless.
Thanks a lot for sharing your journey with us. Judy. You are very self-motivated and successful. Your experience is really inspiring me.