Lamia Tazi is a pioneering business leader in Morocco’s pharmaceutical sector. She is renowned for her role as Chairwoman and CEO of Sothema, a family-owned enterprise that is a key player in Africa and the Middle East. Since joining the company back in 1997 and until today, when she became chairwoman and CEO, Tazi’s leadership has significantly influenced Sothema’s growth and strategic direction.
From a Family Legacy to Global Impact
Tazi’s journey with Sothema began in 2005 after graduating from the University of Liege in Belgium with a degree in pharmacy. She joined the company, founded by her father in 1976, with a clear vision to produce life-saving products. Her early fascination with science and entrepreneurship laid the groundwork for a career marked by determination and innovation.
Driving Innovation and Expansion at Sothema
Under Tazi’s leadership, Sothema has grown into a pharmaceutical powerhouse, partnering with 35 multinational laboratories and achieving a production capacity of 60 million units annually. The company’s financial performance has been impressive, with revenues reaching $ 250 million in 2023. Tazi’s innovative approach has driven continuous improvement in operational efficiency, enabling Sothema to maintain high standards of quality and service while staying ahead of the competition.
Sothema has also led the way in pharmaceutical innovation, signing a landmark agreement in June 2023 with Baylor College of Medicine, Dassault Systems, ReGenLab, and the Moroccan Ministries of Health and Industry. This collaboration aims to establish the first platform for galenic development and clinical trials in Africa and the Middle East. As part of its global expansion, Sothema opened a scientific representative office in Saudi Arabia in October 2023, further solidifying its regional presence.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Broader Influence
Beyond business success, she is a staunch corporate social responsibility (CSR) advocate. Under her guidance, Sothema has launched several impactful CSR programs to improve healthcare access for underserved populations, invest in local communities, and promote sustainability. These initiatives enhance the company’s reputation and make a tangible difference in society’s well-being.
Lamia Tazi’s commitment to CSR reflects her vision of a business that contributes positively to society. She believes that companies must play a proactive role in addressing social issues, and Sothema’s efforts in this regard have set a benchmark in the pharmaceutical industry.
A Figure of Influence in the Global Pharmaceutical Landscape
Lamia Tazi’s influence extends far beyond Sothema. She holds key positions in several other pharmaceutical companies, including Advanced Scientific Developments, West Africa Pharma, Azerys, Axess Pharma, and Leiden Pharma. Her leadership and expertise have profoundly impacted the industry locally and internationally. In recognition of her contributions, she was recently ranked among the top 100 CEOs in Africa.
Tazi’s work inspires a new generation of women in technology and entrepreneurship, positioning her as a trailblazer in the global pharmaceutical landscape. Her visionary leadership at Sothema drives growth in Morocco’s pharmaceutical sector and sets a powerful example of innovation, sustainability, and social impact in the industry worldwide.
