Barbara Gregurek

Driven by curiosity, courage, and a commitment to lifelong learning, Barbara Gregurek speaks about her professional journey with simplicity and honesty, exuding a calm confidence that comes from experience. Today, as the Regional Medical Advisor for Obesity at Novo Nordisk, Barbara focuses on educational activities related to obesity as a chronic disease. However, her professional story began much earlier – at Pliva, where she says she “learned about work, processes, and people.”

“I started as a young woman entering a large system, observing how everything worked. During that time, I got to know the pharmaceutical industry and the importance of relationships and communication,” she recalls. Over the years, she held several positions, each bringing new knowledge: “Every change was an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and learn about myself and others.”

A New Chapter and Broader Perspective

When the opportunity at Novo Nordisk arose, Barbara admits it was a big decision. “You know you’re stepping into a new environment, unsure of what to expect, but you feel you have to take that step. And I’ve never regretted it.” At Novo Nordisk, she found a culture built on trust, support, and humanity. “Here, people truly believe in what they do, and that creates a sense of unity and purpose.”

Today, she conducts educational activities related to obesity as a chronic disease, describing it as a challenging yet meaningful role. “Obesity isn’t a matter of willpower; it’s a disease. Our role is to help people, doctors, and society understand that. It’s something that reminds you every day why you do what you do.”

COTRUGLI Executive MBA – An Experience That Changes Perspectives

Throughout her career, Barbara felt the need for additional knowledge. “I wanted to gain a broader perspective. I had learned a lot through experience, but I felt I needed structure and a theoretical framework to connect everything.” This led her to enroll in the COTRUGLI Executive MBA.

“COTRUGLI gave me a different view of business. I learned to see things from a new perspective, understand basic financial concepts and decision-making processes, and, most importantly, realize how crucial it is to understand people. It’s not all about numbers.”

She particularly values the exchange of experiences with colleagues from various industries. “Through those conversations and real-life situations, you realize how similar challenges are, regardless of the sector.” The MBA also helped her personally: “Today, I have more confidence in myself and know that I don’t need to have all the answers, but I can learn and find solutions.”

On Leadership and Working with People

As a medical advisor, Barbara collaborates with various teams and experts. “It’s important to listen, understand, and build relationships. People recognize when someone genuinely cares.” She sees this as the foundation of good leadership: “Leadership isn’t just a position; it’s about how you treat others, how you respond in challenging situations, and, most importantly, your willingness to help.”

Her experience at COTRUGLI reinforced this approach. “There, I confirmed how vital communication and empathy are. A leader doesn’t need to have all the answers but must know how to ask the right questions.”

Balance and Personal Growth

Despite the demands of her job, Barbara emphasizes the importance of personal balance. “It’s hard to excel at work if you’re not content with yourself. You need to make time for family, friends, and activities you love.” For her, moments spent in nature and reading are key to recharging. “In the constant rush, it’s easy to forget why you do what you do, so it’s important to pause and remind yourself.”

COTRUGLI helped her find balance and clarity. “The MBA encourages you to view yourself from a different perspective. It’s more than a business experience; it’s a personal journey that helps define what truly matters.”