Name: Etelka Dobi
Position/Company: Government Affairs & Patient Advocacy Lead at Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine Hungary
Candidate Bio
Dynamic and results-driven leader with over 30 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, specializing in corporate affairs, government relations, patient advocacy, and strategic communications. Proven track record in shaping healthcare policies, building alliances, and driving impactful initiatives in Hungary and across Central Europe. Experienced in navigating complex healthcare ecosystems and delivering patient-centric solutions. Skilled in leading cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration, and influencing decision-makers. Committed to transforming healthcare and delivering sustainable value to patients and stakeholders.
Experience
Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine Hungary
- Government Affairs & Patient Advocacy Lead
2018 - Present - Central Europe & Baltics Patient Engagement & Government Affairs Community Lead
2022 - 2024 - American Chamber of Commerce, Hungary, Board member at large
2023-present - American Chamber of Commerce, Hungary, Healthcare Committee Chair 2020 – 2024
- Health Care Compliance Officer (HCCO) Johnson & Johnson Pharma and Consumer
2006-2008, 2010 - 2016 - New Business Development Manager
2009 - 2010 - Business Unit Manager OTC
1998 - 2006 - Product Manager Gastro Rx and OTC
1997 - 1998 - Teva - Hungary
Product Manager Rx
1993 - 1997
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
• Corporate Affairs & Government Relations
• Strategic Communications & Policy Shaping
• Patient Engagement & Advocacy
• Healthcare Compliance
• Change Management & Project Leadership
• Cross-Functional Leadership & Stakeholder Management
• Business Development
Skills
- Strong communicator with excellent presentation and influencing skills
• Strategic and analytical mindset, agile in navigating ambiguity
• Entrepreneurial and innovative approach to problem-solving
• Proven ability to build and lead high-performing, cross-functional teams
• Fluent in English and Hungarian
Education
- Post-Graduate Diploma in International Marketing
College of Foreign Trade, Budapest (1994 - 1996) - MSc in Biology/Biotechnology
University of Debrecen, Hungary (1987 - 1993)
Motivation
Why do you think membership in the American Chamber of Commerce is important for businesses operating in Hungary?
AmCham is a strategic partner for businesses in Hungary. It offers direct access to policymakers and helps shape a transparent, predictable business environment. For companies in regulated sectors like life sciences, AmCham’s advocacy is essential in shaping policies that support value-added investments, innovation, access, and sustainable growth.
It’s also simply a great community to be part of - working with people from diverse backgrounds and deep expertise makes it both professionally rewarding and fun.
What motivates you to be an AmCham Board Member?
I’m motivated to continue serving on the Board because I believe AmCham can drive real change. Its values, culture, and business mindset contribute to improving Hungary’s competitiveness and the everyday lives of its citizens. I especially appreciate that healthcare and education are key priorities - these are fundamental to the country’s future. Keeping healthcare on AmCham’s agenda is not just about industry interests - it’s a strategic issue for Hungary. Quality healthcare improves lives and ensures a healthy, productive workforce, which benefits all AmCham members.
Why do you feel you are qualified? What skills do you bring to the position?
I bring 28 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, with a focus on healthcare policy and patient engagement. I’ve led regional projects across ten Central European countries, building strong teams and driving collaboration. I’m strategic, persistent, and comfortable navigating complex environments. I also do ultra-long-distance stand-up paddling, a sport that teaches endurance and a “can-do” mindset, which I apply in my professional life.
How have you been active in AmCham over the course of the last two years?
I was one of the founders of the Healthcare Committee in 2020 and led it until 2024. I remain actively involved in its work. Together with a dedicated team, we published policy papers, built relationships with healthcare policymakers, and collaborated with other chambers to amplify our voice. These efforts helped keep healthcare at the forefront of AmCham’s advocacy, aligned with Hungary’s broader economic and social interests. I’m grateful for the commitment of my colleagues in the Committee - it’s a pleasure to work with them.
Since joining the Board in 2024, I’ve contributed to shaping AmCham’s strategy, provided input to the Policy Agenda 2025, supported efforts to broaden membership, and participated in stakeholder meetings to convey our key messages about the business environment. I truly enjoy working with the AmCham Board and value the opportunity to help shape Hungary’s economic landscape in these volatile times.