Patient-Driven Leadership – Karim Benhadji

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Karim Benhadji, Chief Medical Officer at Inspirna. With nearly 20 years of experience in oncology drug development, Karim shared his journey from medical school in Algeria to his leadership roles in the biotech industry. He recounted how his passion for science and technology initially led him to medicine and eventually to oncology, a field that has seen transformative advancements over the past two decades. Karim’s experience spans various stages of drug development, including his pivotal role in the approval of key oncology drugs while serving at companies like Eli Lilly and Taiho Oncology.

Karim emphasized the value of taking risks and embracing opportunities, which propelled his transition from academia to the pharmaceutical industry. He recounted how a recruiter’s unexpected call introduced him to clinical research at Eli Lilly, where he gained significant expertise in oncology drug development. Over the years, he led teams in both big pharma and smaller biotech environments, learning the importance of diversity, culture, and team collaboration. He shared his leadership philosophy of authenticity, humility, and empowering others, which has been integral to his success in building high-performing teams to develop life-saving therapies for cancer patients.

As the conversation progressed, Karim highlighted the rapid advancements in oncology, especially the promise of precision medicine and cell-based therapies. He expressed optimism for the future, acknowledging the challenges but also celebrating the scientific progress that has given patients more treatment options. He also touched on the potential of artificial intelligence to revolutionize drug discovery and clinical trial processes, reinforcing his belief that while 90% of drug development efforts may not lead to immediate breakthroughs, they contribute invaluable knowledge to the field and ultimately drive innovation for patients.

"It's all for the patients—they can't wait, and every day lost in bureaucracy or indecision impacts their lives."

MEET OUR GUEST Karim Benhadji Chief Medical Officer at Inspirna.

Karim Benhadji is currently Chief Medical Officer at Inspirna. He has nearly 20 years of experience in biopharmaceutical oncology drug development, and most recently served as Chief Medical Officer of GV20 Therapeutics. He previously served as Senior Vice President, Head of Clinical Development and Operations at Taiho Oncology where he oversaw the development of early and late phase portfolio assets, including the FDA approval of LYTGOBI® (futibatinib) in cholangiocarcinoma and the Phase 3 SUNLIGHT that led to the FDA approval of LONSURF® (trifluridine/tipiracil) in combination with bevacizumab in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer.

Prior to joining Taiho Oncology, Karim spent 13 years with Eli Lilly and Company in oncology development roles of increasing responsibility, including overseeing several immuno-oncology programs. Dr. Benhadji received his M.D. from the University of Oran, and completed his Oncology fellowship in the universities of Oran and Paris. He also received a Master of Science in Pharmacology and Therapeutics in Oncology from the University of Paris.