Nominee Stories
Rui Santos Ivo
President, INFARMED-National Authority of Medicines and Healthcare Products
Lifetime Achievement Award winner 2024
Rui Santos Ivo won the Lifetime Achievement award at the 2024 TOPRA Awards for Regulatory Excellence. In this interview, he discusses what winning this award means to him.
Q: How did you feel when you won?
I was truly honoured and deeply humbled to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award. It was both a surprise and a moment of profound gratitude, as it reflected not just my efforts but also the incredible collaboration with many colleagues and professionals throughout my career. Receiving this recognition from TOPRA, a leading organisation that champions the advancement of regulatory affairs, highlights the significance of our work in shaping global healthcare standards and protecting public health.
Q: What does this recognition mean to you, both personally and professionally?
Personally, it means a lot since it is the area that is really close to my heart. I am a regulator and regulatory affairs are part of my DNA even if my career has enlarged the scope of my roles, all benefiting from this essential basis. And, of course, it is a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the path I have travelled and look back at the milestones achieved along the way.
Professionally, it reaffirms the vital role of regulatory affairs in safeguarding and advancing public health. This award underscores the collective efforts of regulatory professionals and serves as a motivation to keep pursuing excellence.
Q: What would you say to encourage people to nominate their friends and colleagues for the awards?
Recognising the achievements of others is essential for fostering motivation and excellence within our field. I would encourage everyone to take the time to reflect on the remarkable contributions their colleagues and peers have made throughout the years. Nominations are a powerful way to showcase innovation and leadership, inspiring others to reach higher standards.
Q: Is there any advice you would give to someone who is aspiring to win such an award in the future?
Dedication to continuous learning, collaboration, and a commitment to public health are key. I would advise aspiring professionals to build strong networks, mentor others, and be proactive in contributing to the development of regulatory science. Passion for the work and a focus on making a meaningful impact will always shine through.