Javier Prieto Freire: A Medical Science Liaison (MSL) Committed to Elevating Medical Standards in Spain
6 March 2025
The script of video.
• Could you please introduce yourself?
My name is Javier. I’m 48 years old, and I’ve been working at Pierre Fabre Oncology in Spain for 14 years.
• What is your professional background before being an MSL?
The first 5 years at Pierre Fabre, I worked as a Key Account Manager, in charge of sales and market access responsibilities, until I jumped to MSL 9 years ago. Before Pierre Fabre, I worked in 2 other pharmaceutical companies, also as a Key Account Manager.
• How would you define the MSL role?
The MSL is the scientific reference for the Key Opinion Leaders in everything related to our drugs, pharmacology and mechanism of action, treatment management, new data provided by research, clinical development, etc… In addition, I would like to highlight the cross-functional work with other departments of Pierre Fabre Oncology.
• What do you like about being an MSL?
I like so much being able to exchange relevant information with healthcare professionals and discuss with them. Internally, I also like playing an important role at a transversal level. For example, by participating in an international mentoring program.
• What is the most difficult thing for you about being an MSL?
Sometimes it’s complicated to balance office time and time on field. Furthermore, when you are responsible for several pathologies, maintaining a high level of scientific knowledge requires a great effort.
• What is the essential quality of an MSL for you?
High qualification, objectivity, resilience, perseverance, versatility and teamwork.
• What motivates you to get up in the morning as an MSL?
The pride of working for a company which help patients in their fight against cancer, and secondly, in line with the Pierre Fabre’s values: “Every time we care for a single person, we make the whole world better”.
• What is your most beautiful emotion experienced as an MSL?
I remember experiencing firsthand the presentation of positive data on the treatment of CRC, at ESMO Barcelona 2019, which we were published that same day.
• Any words or advice for someone wanting to become an MSL?
It's a very demanding but dynamic job, which for sure will allow you to fulfill yourself on a daily basis and grow professionally, so…. go for it!