As a Director at Guidehouse, Maya K Desai, PhD is a pioneer and strategy expert at the interface of science, business, and technology. She heads commercial excellence and digital health services for the life sciences sector in Guidehouse’s Health segment.

A neuroscientist and published thought leader, Dr. Desai has worked with biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, digital heath, and academic organizations across the US and globally since 2006. She is also a trusted advisor to investors, start-ups, and emerging companies. Dr. Desai takes a “healthcare ecosystem” lens to enterprise strategy, focusing on value creation, growth, and innovation.

Dr. Desai has shaped the journey to commercial success for a range of life sciences companies at the product, franchise, and corporate level. She has led emerging life science companies through their transitions from R&D to successful commercial organizations. Dr. Desai applies a collaborative, multifunctional, and transdisciplinary approach in her leadership style. She leads teams that are experienced in delivering innovative business models, breakthrough commercialization strategies, novel technology solutions, advanced analytics, and accountable investment planning.

Prior to joining Guidehouse, Dr. Desai was a leader and strategic advisor to life sciences and technology start-ups in Silicon Valley with a focus on new productization, business development, and growth strategy. She has participated in panel discussions and judged business competitions for venture/start-up organizations. A philanthropic leader with a focus on a conscious planet, she actively volunteers to serve her community.