Robert Popovian, PharmD ’93, MS ’96, has been appointed chair of the USC Mann Board of Councilors. He succeeds David W. Neu, who served as chair since December 2021.
An accomplished leader in the pharmaceutical science and healthcare industry, Dr. Popovian is the founder of the strategic consulting firm Conquest Advisors, and previously served as vice president, U.S. government relations at Pfizer Inc. One of the country’s foremost experts on every significant facet of biopharmaceuticals and the healthcare industry, he is a recognized authority on health economics, policy, government relations, medical affairs, and strategic planning.
A longtime member of the USC Mann Board of Councilors, Dr. Popovian received the Dean’s Medallion Award at the 2024 USC Mann Alumni Awards Gala in recognition of his outstanding service and dedication to the school. “He is one of our school’s most visible and engaged alumni, and I look forward to continuing to work with him in this new role as chair,” Dean Vassilios Papadopoulos said in a memo announcing the transition.
Papadopoulos expressed gratitude to Neu, who will continue to serve on the Board of Councilors as Chair Emeritus. “His work as an advocate and ambassador for our school and its mission has been invaluable,” Papadopoulos said.
The USC Mann Board of Councilors is the school’s premier group of strategic advisers to the dean. Board members serve as advocates and ambassadors for the school and its mission, locally and globally. Learn more.