Panelists: .png)
| Rami Halabi
Medical Science Liaison, Obesity & NASH – Western Canada, Novo Nordisk Canada IncRami holds a PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Calgary, and a MSc in Physiology and Pharmacology from Western University. Following his academic career, Rami joined Novo Nordisk in 2019 and took on several roles. He began his pharmaceutical industry career in sales and later moved into the Medical Science Liaison (MSL) position in diabetes for Western Canada at the beginning of 2022. From there, he transitioned into the role as MSL for Obesity & Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), in which he currently operates. Rami is heavily involved in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) efforts within Novo Nordisk and strongly believes that addressing disease stigma is a cornerstone towards providing equitable healthcare.
| | | .png)
| Blake Robillard
Desjardins Financial SecurityBlake Robillard is a seasoned professional in the group benefits industry, with over 9 years of experience in both insurance carrier and broker sides of the business. He attended the University of Victoria and holds a Group Benefits Associate (GBA) Designation. Throughout his career, Blake has demonstrated a deep understanding of the complex world of group benefits and has helped numerous clients navigate the ever-changing landscape of employee benefits offerings. He takes pride in meeting the unique needs of each client and is passionate about helping organizations provide their employees with the best employee benefits packages. In addition to his work in the group benefits industry, Blake is an avid golfer and dedicated Costco member. He enjoys spending time exploring the beautiful natural surroundings of Calgary and the Rocky Mountains with his wife and their 1 year old daughter. | | | | .jpg) | Dan Ekstrand
Associate Director,Patient Access–W. Canada, Novo Nordisk Canada
Dan has been involved in the innovative pharmaceutical industry for over twenty years. During that time, he has assumed numerous roles, including: sales (GP and Specialty care), field training, district management, key account management and marketing. Dan first joined Novo Nordisk in 2010 and is currently accountable for patient access in the public and private payer markets. In addition to his professional accountabilities, Mr. Ekstrand feels a sense of responsibility to improve the care and outcomes for all individuals impacted by diabetes because he has several immediate family members living with the condition. As a result, he is passionate about Novo Nordisk’s global commitment to “Defeat Diabetes” and understands this bold mandate is only possible by addressing obesity and aligning with like-minded public/philanthropic partners | | | | Moderator: | |  | Carleen Kay
Carleen has over 20 years of experience in employee benefits programs. She has worked with consulting firms in Calgary and Toronto, an insurance carrier and plan sponsors. She has lead outsourcing projects and various benefits program implementations. Her passion is solving problems to improve people's lives. Carleen was nominated to join the CPBI Southern Alberta chapter in 2013 and is the co-chair of the program committee. She was a member of the 2015 and 2018 Western Regional CPBI Conference steering committee and just recently began her third term with planning the 2024 Western Regional Conference. Born and raised in Calgary, she spends her spare time at the dog parks and rivers with her two dogs, Gus and Cooper. | | | |
|