Carrie Fernandez

Bio:

For more than 25 years, Carrie Fernandez has built a communications and public relations career across corporate, agency and third-party settings. Her extensive background in global and U.S. pharmaceutical communications includes expertise in executive communications, thought leadership initiatives, R&D and product communications, reputation and issues management and employee engagement. Carrie is an inspiring leader fueled by her passion for fostering teamwork and strategic collaboration. She harnesses the unique strengths of individuals to create a cohesive team and strives to make colleagues feel like they are part of a greater purpose. 

In January 2024, Carrie joined Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) as Vice President of Corporate Communications, where she is responsible for setting the reputation and brand strategy for the company, both internally and externally. This is Carrie’s second tenure with BMS. From 2013-2020, she held communications leadership roles at that spanned Virology, Immuno-Oncology, the US Commercial market and corporate communications. 

“Our industry introduces groundbreaking scientific advancements to the world, but the journey to reach those milestones is made up of numerous steps – from the laboratory and manufacturing to regulatory processes and ensuring access. When all aspects come together, it's truly remarkable to see what our industry achieves. As communicators, we have the privilege of telling that story for BMS.”

Prior to returning to BMS, Carrie spent four years with Takeda Pharmaceuticals as the Vice President and Head of Communications and Patient Advocacy for the Global Oncology Business. In this role, Carrie led the oncology communications and advocacy strategy, including pipeline, disease awareness, and brand awareness initiatives, executive and employee communications and digital/social engagement. 

Earlier in her career, Carrie worked at Pfizer, where she was responsible for the scientific and launch communications for Prevnar13 Adult, a pneumococcal vaccine, in the US and Europe. She also had stints in public relations agencies and third-party organizations leading a variety of internal and external communications programs. 

Carrie received her Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business from The George Washington University in Washington, DC. She lives in New Jersey with her daughter, Lucy, and husband, Grant.