Top Gun: Who’s Really Flying Pharma’s AI Transformation?

Pharma has never invested more in AI. So why does transformation still feel stuck on the runway?

In this Top Gun-inspired episode of Off Label, Steve Royle is joined by transformation leaders Alyssa Fenoglio and Dr. Michael Kurr for a fast-paced discussion exploring one of pharma’s biggest uncomfortable truths:

AI isn’t the real problem.
The operating model is.

From copilots and automation to accountability, governance, leadership, and organizational design, this episode unpacks why so many AI initiatives struggle to scale — despite enormous investment and endless hype.

Together, the panel explores:

• Who is actually “flying the plane” in pharma transformation?
• Why AI scaling is fundamentally an operating model challenge
• Where accountability breaks inside large organizations
• Why transformation theatre is everywhere
• The difference between efficiency and true reinvention
• What pharma leaders need to stop believing about AI

Plus:

• Top Gun references
• “Danger Zone” moments
• A preview of the debate heading to NEXT Pharma in Dubrovnik