Robert Machinek

Robert Machinek is the Interim Head of Strategy & Business Development for the Life Science business of Merck, where he also continues to lead Global Strategy and Market Intelligence. In this capacity, Robert is responsible for shaping and executing the company’s Life Science strategy, guiding both organic and inorganic growth, ensuring strategic alignment across all business units and regions, and overseeing the ERP business program.  

Robert joined the company in 2024 as the Head of Global Strategy & Market Intelligence. In this capacity, he demonstrated strong leadership in strategic planning, market intelligence, and cross-functional collaboration, playing a pivotal role in defining the company’s Life Science strategy. Together with his team, he automated market intelligence processes, and drove executive decision-making to accelerate business outcomes.  

Before that, Robert was a Partner at McKinsey & Company, where he led strategic life science and healthcare engagements across North America, Europe, and Asia. His expertise spans driving strategic growth, leading major ERP transformations, executing successful M&A and digital initiatives, and optimizing global operations.   

Robert holds a PhD in Physics from the University of Oxford and a B.Sc. in Physics from RWTH Aachen University.