Deanna King

Senior Director, Global Development BioPharma Astellas

Dr. Deanna King is a strategic biopharmaceutical leader and trained neuroscientist with more than 20 years of experience advancing science into solutions that improve health outcomes, particularly for women and communities of color. Her career spans clinical development, medical affairs, and operational leadership across multiple therapeutic areas, with a strong focus on innovation, equity, and execution. At Astellas Pharmaceuticals, Dr. King leads early development strategy from concept through key post launch clinical milestones. She is known for aligning cross-functional teams, translating complex science into clear strategy, and advancing portfolio decisions that address unmet medical needs. Since joining Astellas, she has held progressive leadership roles across Training, Field Medical Affairs, and Brand Strategy. She led the US medical team's launch strategy for fezolinetant during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating agility and leadership during a period of significant disruption. She began her pharmaceutical career at Procter & Gamble, where she held roles in Managed Markets, Medical Science Liaison leadership, and training operations. Dr. King holds a master's degree in neurophysiology and a PhD in neurotoxicology. She is known for her intellectual rigor, people-centered leadership, commitment to inclusive science, and passion for building high-performing teams.