Expertise may open the door, but purpose is what drives meaningful change in today’s evolving healthcare world. Josipa Ljubičić, CEO of Proqlea Ltd., brings both to the table. With over 20 years of experience across clinical trials, regulatory bodies, and the pharmaceutical industry, she’s built a career around understanding healthcare from every angle and, more importantly, improving it.
At Proqlea, Josipa is focused on solving a key challenge in healthcare: making sure innovation actually reaches patients. It’s not just about new ideas—it’s about turning them into real solutions that work in everyday settings. From speeding up clinical trials to improving quality systems and using AI in smart ways, she leads a team that’s practical, flexible, and committed. For Josipa, real success means making a direct, positive impact on people’s lives.
But it’s not just what Proqlea does—it’s how. Josipa leads with authenticity, clarity, and a long-term view rooted in trust. Under her guidance, the company has become known for transparency, tailor-made solutions, and a uniquely human approach to every project.
Through community initiatives like “Kindness is Medicine” and the event “Many for the Rare,” she’s also helping redefine what it means to lead in healthcare—with compassion, connection, and real-world impact.
As the European healthcare landscape continues to evolve, Josipa stands out as a leader who combines strategy with soul, always keeping people at the heart of progress.
Let’s delve into the interview details below!
Tell us about your professional journey and what led you to co-found or lead Proqlea Ltd.?
My professional journey began over twenty years ago, moving through the worlds of clinical trials, regulatory agencies, and international pharmaceutical companies. I was fortunate to experience the healthcare industry from many angles, from hands-on roles to strategic positions—and over time, I realized how critical it is to bridge scientific excellence and real-world innovation. Proqlea was actually born from a desire to strengthen that connection and build a company that can tackle the modern challenges of healthcare with a flexible, proactive, and transparent approach, always with a personal touch for each project and partner.
Proqlea Ltd. is at the forefront of innovation—what core problem are you solving, and how is your solution transforming healthcare?
I sincerely believe that innovation means little if we can’t efficiently bring new solutions to patients. Our main challenge lies in resolving the “bottleneck” between scientific ideas and real-world clinical application—whether that’s a clinical trial, a new therapy, a digital tool, or the implementation of QMS standards for our clients. Proqlea accelerates and simplifies this entire process, thanks to our experience, connectivity, and pragmatic agility. In doing so, we help turn innovation into reality and make the healthcare system faster, more accessible, and higher in quality for everyone.
Currently, we are working on two very promising projects: one involves AI- and ML-based diagnostics, and the other is an AI application that will transform how QA departments operate. I’m looking forward to seeing how efficient we will be in the near future.
What is your vision for healthcare innovation in Europe over the next five years, and how is Proqlea contributing to that future?
European healthcare is heading for a profound transformation—personalized therapies, digital medicine, faster market access for breakthroughs, and increased collaboration across the EU. My vision is for a healthcare system that embraces innovation while remaining firmly patient-centered.
Specifically in the area of clinical trials for rare diseases—particularly in countries that do not currently hold high status—Proqlea sees an important role for itself. We connect partners, advocate for broader access to experimental therapies for patients whose only option may be a clinical trial, implement state-of-the-art QMS, and support clients in achieving excellence across all stages of development.
Our doors are always open to scientists, startups, merged companies, and anyone committed to transforming the world of medicine.
What key values and leadership principles guide your decision-making as a CEO in the healthcare space?
I deeply believe in authenticity and responsibility—to clients, to my team, and ultimately to our patients. Every decision is based on ethics and long-term trust. As a leader, I strive to maintain open communication, foster an environment where proactivity matters more than the status quo, and see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than something to fear.
Can you share a project, milestone, or case study that best illustrates Proqlea’s measurable impact in the healthcare industry?
I’d definitely highlight our work with clinical trials in rare diseases. Despite challenging conditions, we enabled faster patient recruitment and managed all regulatory processes without delays. Our clients particularly appreciate our tailor-made solutions and transparency, and I’m most proud that our projects have led to real therapies reaching those who need them most.
We also launched the initiative “Kindness is Medicine,” through which we organize international conferences and congresses. The highlight of this initiative is our signature event, “Many for the Rare,” which we are especially proud of. We bring together people from across Croatia for a race dedicated to children, adults, and seniors affected by rare diseases. Our athlete ambassadors run alongside them—pushing children with special needs in wheelchairs so they, too, can experience what it feels like to participate in a race. Representatives from numerous organizations supporting these patients also take part.
Each year, we host a joyful concert that brings together well-known public figures, during which we raise funds that are donated to associations supporting children with rare diseases and special needs.
Our ultimate goal is to one day launch a Clinical Trial Hub that will help these individuals access treatment more easily. I believe this will be the greatest innovation Proqlea brings to patients across the EU and the Balkan region.
What has been your biggest challenge as a healthcare leader, and how did you overcome it?
The greatest challenge has been balancing intense regulatory demands with the day-to-day operational pressures of leading a small but highly ambitious team. There were moments when our hands-on approach felt insignificant compared to the bureaucracy of larger systems. But by believing in people, staying patient, and prioritizing continuous education, we built a reputation as a market partner that solves problems rather than creates them.
What advice would you give to emerging leaders—especially women—who aspire to drive change in healthcare and technology?
Be yourself, dream big, dare to be different, and don’t accept compromises that don’t feel right. Always seek mentors and allies who genuinely want to see you succeed. Healthcare and technology are hungry for authentic female leaders. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes or to ask “why”—often, the biggest changes come from exactly those questions.
Finally, how do you stay inspired, grounded, and focused as a CEO in such a demanding and dynamic field?
My greatest inspiration comes from the people I work with, the children in our company, and the patients we strive to help. Since no one knows what the future will bring, I place great value on having diverse solutions. I unwind with my family and in nature, and I find balance through small daily rituals and staying active. I stay focused by setting clear priorities, while also allowing myself—and my team—the flexibility to adapt when circumstances require it. I believe that an ideal healthcare leader must be both a visionary and a hands-on operator, never losing sight of the “why” behind our work.
