Today’s business moves at the speed of light, a fact that appeals to pharmaceutical sales leader Andres Otano. Considered one of the foremost sales directors in his field, Andres Otano brings a wealth of leadership experience and service to one of the world’s most important industries. Andres Otano began his remarkable path to success at the United States Naval Academy, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in International Security Affairs. Dedicated to expanding upon his education, Andres Otano also attended the Defense Intelligence Agency’s Defense Intelligence School (now the National Defense Intelligence College). This opportunity led Andres Otano to a long and respected career with the United States Navy. During his naval career, Andres Otano first served as a Surface Warfare Officer, followed by a period as an Intelligence Officer, during which he directly supported Special Warfare operations aimed at stopping the flow of illegal narcotics into the United States. Andres Otano was later was named a Flag Lieutenant and served as an Admiral’s Aide in Panama before being promoted to the position of US Naval Attachè to the United States Embassies in Nicaragua and Venezuela. Andres Otano also worked to increase intelligence support for Middle East and Atlantic naval operations during his tenure as a Director of naval weapons systems and platform fleet intelligence. Andres Otano’s last naval post was as Associate Director for the U.S. Atlantic Command, Human Intelligence Directorate, an assignment in which he oversaw western hemisphere human intelligence and supported operations in Beirut. After transitioning from active duty to Reserve status, Andres Otano went to work for pharmaceutical leader Pfizer, Inc. He moved as quickly through the ranks of the corporate world as he had the military, and ultimately was named Director of Sales Operations for a specialty division in New York. Focusing on new technologies and medical breakthroughs, Andres Otano ultimately became the Sales Director for Pfizer’s neuroscience division during a period of rapid growth. Today, Andres Otano is a Regional Sales Director for diabetic and metabolic medications division of Chicago-area Takeda Pharmaceuticals North America, Inc. In this capacity, Andres Otano oversees a team of sales representatives serving a six-state region of the United States.
Hire, train, and develop District Managers and representatives. Provide strategic sales guidance and evaluate overall business conditions for success.
I review/evaluate the personnel and business development of over 80 individuals in the company.
Manage budget and resource allocation for a region while I lead small and large setting business meetings. Also in charge of strategic direction and implementing Headquarter’s marketing and sales goals. Accountable to ensure sales region maintains actions with the Pharma compliance guidelines.
Selected to mentor colleagues Award winning Region in 2010
Andres Otano's Publications
Andres Otano on the United States Naval Academy, Andres Otano
December, 2010
A decorated veteran of the United States Navy, Andres Otano served in high-level intelligence operations around the world. Prior to beginning his naval career, he graduated from the United States Naval Academy (USNA), described below. In the early years of the United States, naval training facilities were maintained at several locations across the country. The U.S. Navy was not a permanent institution until the end of the 18th century, and official naval academies did not appear until several decades later. In 1845, Secretary of the Navy George Bancroft established the USNA, then called the Naval School, at Annapolis, Maryland. He chose this location because it was secluded and did not provide the “distractions” of a more urban environment. Launched without a funding commitment from Congress, the Naval School featured classes in science, mathematics, philosophy, the mechanics of naval warfare, and the English and French languages. Five years later, the academy adopted its current name and underwent a transformation into a four-year academic program with mandatory on-ship training every summer. The USNA began offering Bachelor’s degrees in 1933 and soon thereafter began distinguishing between core and elective classes. Complementing academic and military training, the USNA provides extensive moral education. Courses emphasize the responsibilities that future graduates of the USNA will hold, either in the Navy or Marine Corps. Values such as integrity, respect, and honor are built into all aspects of the program. Midshipmen are expected to have a clear understanding of their own beliefs and to be able to express them to others. The USNA also maintains an “Honor Concept.” Upper-class midshipmen form Brigade Honor Committees to ensure that all students uphold the standards of the USNA. To learn more about the USNA, visit www.usna.edu.
How to Train for Your First Triathlon, Andres Otano
When you are training for your first triathlon, it is imperative to realize that you likely will not be anywhere near the physical condition required to successfully complete the event. You must push your limits during training, but never to the extent that you injure yourself or put unnecessary strain on your body. Rest assured that, in time, you will notice a dramatic increase in your strength, agility, and endurance. Consult with your doctor prior to beginning your training regimen and discuss your plans for the triathlon to avoid any potential problems.
Many trainers offer their own pre-race schedules and, while you may benefit from them, don’t feel obligated to follow any one regimen to the letter. As I stated before, you must listen to your body: if you experience any pain or extreme discomfort, stop immediately and modify your training schedule. Before you begin any training session, perform the necessary stretches. You may also want to stretch after you work out to minimize soreness. Find and purchase necessary gear before the event. You should start training with the actual equipment that you will use as soon as possible, to break it in and get a feel for everything, especially your bike.
Don’t feel obligated to train for all three events right away. Many of the best athletes practice each event independently before stringing them together. Give yourself plenty of time, however, to train for each event so you are not caught off guard on race day. If you are trying for a specific time, practice your transitions between the events. Many participants lose minutes struggling with their gear if they are not prepared with a specific plan.
Most important of all, have fun! Never forget that training for and participating in a triathlon should be an enjoyable experience, albeit a difficult and strenuous one.
For more insight into the training process, watch the following video: