Colin Rooney was named Pharma Leader of the Year at the recently concluded Pharma Industry Awards 2025, recognised for advancing operational excellence, sustainability performance, and people development within Viatris Cork. 

As Site Leader, Rooney has led significant improvements in output efficiency, carbon reduction, and compliance, underpinned by a strategy centred on technical expertise, team empowerment, and a culture of continuous improvement.

The judging panel highlighted Rooney’s data-driven leadership, innovation-focused approach, and ability to embed operational discipline across a complex manufacturing environment. His stewardship has elevated Viatris Cork into a global benchmark for performance and governance integration, strengthening its position within a rapidly evolving sector.

“Our recipient has built an outstanding career spanning more than two decades in pharmaceutical manufacturing, defined by operational excellence and a steadfast commitment to sustainability, quality, and people development. As Site Leader at Viatris Cork, he has positioned the site as a global benchmark for performance, innovation, and compliance,” the judges said.

Rooney’s achievement comes amid rising standards across the Pharma Industry Awards, reflecting a cohort of strong performers pushing for measurable results in productivity, decarbonisation, and workforce development. His recognition reinforces a broader shift toward leaders who can balance innovation with operational resilience.

As momentum builds toward the next awards cycle, his win underscores the increasing sophistication and ambition within Ireland’s pharmaceutical landscape. Who will rise to take the spotlight in 2026 and continue to redefine excellence in Ireland’s pharmaceutical industry?

The Pharma Industry Awards continues to bring together senior executives, innovators, and key decision-makers to celebrate transformative achievements across the life sciences sector.

Discover the full list of winners and their remarkable achievements on the official website, and stay informed on category updates, industry insights, and future awards by subscribing to our newsletter.