Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Leadership Philosophy
Timeline
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Ruth Kowalk

Ann Arbor

Summary

Dynamic sales professional prepared for an Executive Sales Director role, recognized for driving substantial regional sales growth and cultivating impactful relationships with employees and customers. Proven track record in executing strategic sales initiatives while consistently surpassing targets, demonstrating a commitment to excellence. Renowned for fostering strong collaboration across teams and departments, showcasing reliability and adaptability in the face of evolving challenges. Expertise in leadership, communication, and strategic planning, complemented by an enterprise mindset aligned with organizational goals.

Overview

23
23
years of professional experience

Work History

Regional Sales Manager, Great Lakes Psychiatry

Neurocrine Biosciences
08.2018 - Current
  • Consistently exceeds sales targets and an average of 17.7% year over year growth the past three years to outpace the zone.
  • Consistent Zone leader in RSM Field Metrics and documentation.
  • Led regional sales strategy development to enhance market penetration and drive revenue growth by maximizing opportunities in payer landscape.
  • Known as an effective collaborator with cross-functional teams to align marketing initiatives, sales objectives, data processes and problem solving.
  • Analyzed market trends and competitive landscape to identify new opportunities and refine product positioning.
  • Mentored New Managers, and supported new leaders, assisting with formal and informal development and support.

Regional Sales Manager, North Central

Neurocrine Biosciences
09.2016 - 08.2018
  • Recruited to hire sales force and organizational build out for the launch of Ingrezza. Hiring hubs, creation of HR job descriptions, coaching tools, SOP’s and facilitated training.
  • Launched Ingrezza in 2017 in two major Metropolitan Markets: Chicago and Detroit, including KOL’s in Psychiatry and Neurology. Developed and implemented strategic and tactical plans, surpassing sales targets through effective execution.


Thought Leader Liaison

Biogen
04.2015 - 09.2016
  • Selected to expand and evolve the Thought Leader Liaison role; recognized for excellence and cross-functional influence.
  • Lead engagement strategy for national and international key opinion leaders (KOLs) within Neurology.
  • Partner with Franchise Centers of Excellence to align medical, marketing, and field initiatives, strengthening brand impact and speaker development.
  • Drove measurable improvement in KOL engagement and organizational readiness across the Central Division.



Regional Director, Michigan

Biogen
06.2011 - 04.2015
  • Directed new team formation and expansion across Michigan, leading to top-quartile national performance.
  • Ranked consistently in the top 15–25% of managers.
  • Served on national leadership council, influencing organizational design and leadership-development frameworks.
  • Led regional strategy for the launch of a major MS therapy, achieving strong market share and operational stability.
  • Championed organizational culture change initiatives that fostered collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement across all levels of the organization.

Area Sales Manager, CNS

Cephalon
10.2005 - 06.2011
  • Recruited, coached, and developed a high-performing team covering Michigan and Ohio.
  • Directed regional product launches and business expansion across CNS markets, consistently ranking in the top 25% nationally. President’s Club Winner 2007.
  • Recognized for leadership in training, talent development, and cross-functional collaboration.


Territory Sales Specialist

Cephalon
02.2003 - 10.2005

Promoted Schedule II Pain Medication to appropriate specialties in clinics and hospitals in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana.

  • Expanded market share through effective prospecting, lead generation, and negotiation skills.
  • Enhanced team performance by providing ongoing coaching, training, and mentoring to sales representatives as Area Field Trainer.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Psychology/Biology

Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, MI

Master of Arts - Organizational Leadership

Siena Heights University
Adrian, Michigan
01.2015

Skills

  • Strategic Sales Leadership & Market Growth
  • Team Building & Performance Management
  • Compliance & Ethical Leadership
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Mentorship & Talent Development
  • Operational Excellence & Process Improvement
  • Launch & Field Force Development
  • Sales lifecycle management
  • Sales presentations

Leadership Philosophy

Empower teams through trust, clarity, and purpose. Model servant leadership and ensure each representative sees the connection between their work and the mission of improving patient lives. Lead with kindness, fairness and consistency to deliver both business excellence and cultural strength.

Timeline

Regional Sales Manager, Great Lakes Psychiatry

Neurocrine Biosciences
08.2018 - Current

Regional Sales Manager, North Central

Neurocrine Biosciences
09.2016 - 08.2018

Thought Leader Liaison

Biogen
04.2015 - 09.2016

Regional Director, Michigan

Biogen
06.2011 - 04.2015

Area Sales Manager, CNS

Cephalon
10.2005 - 06.2011

Territory Sales Specialist

Cephalon
02.2003 - 10.2005

Bachelor of Science - Psychology/Biology

Eastern Michigan University

Master of Arts - Organizational Leadership

Siena Heights University
Ruth Kowalk