VML Portugal Launches VML Health and Appoints Mariana Marta dos Santos as Managing Director

VML Portugal today announced the launch of VML Health. Pharma communications veteran Mariana Marta dos Santos has been appointed as Managing Director, bringing both her specialist health expertise and a proven track record of driving innovation and growth.

In addition to her qualifications as a pharmacist, Mariana brings over 15 years of global brand and marketing leadership experience in the health industry, notably over 7 years as Global Respiratory Manager for Astra Zeneca as well as roles in other leading health brands such as Viatris, Almirall, and Esteve. She has successfully led global launches, repositioning strategies, and omnichannel campaigns across therapeutic areas including oncology, respiratory, and cardiovascular/metabolic diseases. 

“I’m thrilled to lead VML Health in Portugal at such an exciting time for healthcare communications. We will leverage the award-winning resources within VML to combine creativity, science, and technology to deliver meaningful solutions that improve patient outcomes and empower healthcare professionals. Portugal has incredible potential in this space, and I could not think of a better company from which to help shape the future of healthcare communications in our market,” said Mariana Marta dos Santos, Managing Director, VML Health Portugal.

“The launch of VML Health in Portugal is a testament to our commitment to growth in specialised sectors. Healthcare is a truly dynamic and vital industry, and Mariana’s track record, health expertise and leadership make her the ideal person to spearhead this expansion to deliver world-class solutions for our clients,” said Nuno Santos, CEO, VML Portugal.

“Mariana’s deep understanding of the pharmaceutical landscape and her passion for innovation make her the perfect leader for VML Health Portugal. The combination of her specialist expertise with VML’s human-first creative mantra will ensure we deliver outstanding support to our clients as we navigate the industry’s challenges and opportunities,” Claire Gillis, Global CEO, VML Health.

This launch continues VML Health’s European expansion this year, following the appointment of Philippe Huot-Louradour as Director of VML Health France and the creation of a new EU Hub under the leadership of Nick Bartlett. Mariana’s appointment in Portugal is from immediate effect.