Hannes Schmeil

Hannes is a visionary and results-driven biopharma executive with over 30 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry, specializing in orphan diseases and specialty care. His career is marked by a passion for building high-performing teams, launching innovative therapies, and driving sustainable growth in complex markets.

As General Manager for Rhythm Pharmaceuticals (DACH) and Alnylam Germany, Hannes established and led cross-functional organizations from the ground up, achieving market leadership for breakthrough orphan drugs and fostering a culture of excellence recognized with the Great Place to Work Award. His strategic initiatives, such as patient identification programs and public-private partnerships with leading university hospitals, have set new standards in patient care and operational success.

Hannes’s expertise spans commercial strategy, market access, and P&L management, with a proven track record of launching nine products across primary care, specialty, and orphan indications. His leadership at Baxter/Baxalta/Shire and Pfizer further underscores his ability to drive strong sustainable growth and implement industry-first programs, including home nursing services and outcomes databases that became global benchmarks.

A biologist by training, Hannes holds advanced leadership certifications from IMD Lausanne and is fluent in German, English and Italian. He recently founded his consulting firm Consult for Rare GmbH focusing on the support of start-up enterprises in the field of rare diseases.