Adar Poonawalla

Adar poonawalla and Cyrus Poonawalla at the 4th Asian Awards

Adar Poonawalla is an Indian businessman and the CEO of Serum Institute of India (SII), the world's largest vaccine manufacturer by number of doses produced and sold globally. Poonawalla has been instrumental in leading the company towards global prominence, especially in the production of pediatric vaccines and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Early Life and Education

Adar Poonawalla was born into a Parsi family in Pune, India, to Cyrus Poonawalla, the founder of the Serum Institute of India. He pursued his higher education abroad, obtaining a degree in Management from the University of Westminster, London. This educational background laid the foundation for his future role in the family business.

Career

Adar Poonawalla joined the Serum Institute of India in 2001 and became its CEO in 2011. Under his leadership, SII has expanded its portfolio to include vaccines for polio, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, Hib, BCG, r-Hepatitis B, measles, mumps, and rubella, among others. The company has also focused on increasing its global footprint, supplying vaccines to over 170 countries.

In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Poonawalla played a crucial role in the development and distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine. SII partnered with AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford to produce the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, known as Covishield in India and many other countries. This move was pivotal in making affordable vaccines available to developing countries.

Philanthropy

Adar Poonawalla is also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the areas of health, education, and sanitation. Through the Serum Institute and his own initiatives, he has contributed to various social causes and disaster relief efforts.

Awards and Recognition

Poonawalla has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to healthcare and society. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, has been widely recognized and appreciated.

Personal Life

Adar Poonawalla is married to Natasha Poonawalla, a prominent figure in Indian society and philanthropy. They have two children and reside in Pune, India.

Controversies

Like many high-profile business leaders, Poonawalla has faced his share of controversies, including discussions around vaccine pricing and supply commitments during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, he has addressed these issues publicly, emphasizing the company's commitment to saving lives globally.

Legacy and Future Directions

Adar Poonawalla's leadership at the Serum Institute of India has not only contributed to the company's growth but has also played a significant role in global health, particularly in making vaccines more accessible to low- and middle-income countries. As the world continues to face health challenges, Poonawalla's efforts in vaccine production and distribution remain crucial.