Chris Ruocco is a seasoned pharmaceutical executive with more than 20 years of experience across procurement, manufacturing, operations, and engineering. He currently serves as Head of Contract Manufacturing, Direct Procurement at Takeda, where he manages over $1 billion in spend across all modalities, leads a global team of professionals, and drives supplier strategies, alliances, and due diligence for pipeline acquisitions.
He began his career as a chemical engineer at Merck, progressing through technical operations, capital projects, and technology transfer before moving into senior procurement leadership roles. This foundation gives him a rare end-to-end perspective, from plant-floor operations to enterprise-level sourcing and supplier management.
Recognized for his transformational leadership style, customer focus, and analytical problem-solving, Chris has consistently delivered breakthrough results, including multimillion-dollar savings, supplier diversification, and stronger supply chain resilience. He holds an MBA in Finance and Accounting from Fordham University, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemical engineering from Manhattan College, and is a CFA Level III Candidate.
- Primary/Complementary Interactive Styles: Warrior/Mastermind
- Interactive Combination: The Power Broker
- In a film, he’d be played by: Al Pacino
- Common Leadership Characteristic: Focused on the goal; getting the job done with efficiency and expertise