Associate Director-Clinical Development Trial Leader at Eli Lilly and Company

May 27, 2025

Filmon Emnetu, PharmD, is an Associate Director-Clinical Development Trial Leader at Eli Lilly and Company. He leads global Phase 3 clinical trials focused on investigational medicines in cardiometabolic health. His work involves designing and executing large-scale studies that help determine whether new therapies are safe and effective for patients.

What is the highest degree you have earned and what can you tell us about your academic path?

I earned a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree from Washington State University College of Pharmacy. After that, I completed a PGY1 pharmacy residency in pediatric acute care at Seattle Children’s Hospital and a Teaching Certificate in Pharmacy Education from the University of Washington. These experiences provided me with a strong foundation in patient care, leadership, and clinical pharmacology, which I now apply to drug development in the industry.

Where do you work now and what is your company about?

I work at Eli Lilly and Company, a global pharmaceutical company committed to discovering, developing, and delivering innovative medicines that make life better for people around the world. Lilly has a long legacy in advancing healthcare, and its mission to improve patient outcomes is at the core of everything we do.

How did you first learn about the company?

I first became aware of Eli Lilly during pharmacy school, where we learned about its contributions to the field of medicine by researching new potential medicines. My interest deepened as I explored industry roles during my residency and my time in the SMDP program. Over time I discovered how pharmacists play a significant role in drug development and clinical research solidifying my passion for clinical research.

What do you like most about the company?

What I appreciate most is Lilly’s patient-centered culture and its investment in innovation. I’m inspired by the collaborative environment, the diversity of expertise across teams, and the company’s commitment to scientific excellence. Everyone is aligned around a shared goal of improving patients’ lives.

What skills make you successful in your role and why did you choose this role?

Strong communication, strategic thinking, clinical knowledge, and adaptability are key to success in my role. I chose this path because it allows me to make a broader impact beyond direct patient care—by helping to bring new therapies to patients globally through rigorous and meaningful research.

How do you define success?

I define success as creating value for patients while growing both professionally and personally. Success is not just about outcomes, it’s also about how you get there: through ethical decision-making, teamwork, and continuous shared learning.

What's the most fulfilling aspect of your job?

Knowing that the work we do today could change the standard of care tomorrow is incredibly fulfilling. It’s rewarding to be part of a process that translates scientific discovery into real-world therapies that improve patients’ quality of life all over the globe.

What advice do you have for students and job seekers?

Be open to non-traditional paths and always stay motivated. Don’t be afraid to explore roles outside of your original field of study—your unique background can be a strength. Seek mentors, ask questions, and invest in building both technical and soft skills. The industry needs diverse thinkers and leaders.

What book did you read last?

Range by David Epstein. It’s a great read about how generalists thrive in a specialized world, and it really resonated with my own non-linear career path.