Patricia Wilstermann

With more than 50 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and commercial sector in Bolivia, Marlen Patricia Wilstermann-Sanzetenea has been a key figure in the evolution and consolidation of the country's pharmaceutical industry. Throughout these decades, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the business environment, which has enabled her to lead successfully in times of great challenge. Her ability to adapt to market changes and anticipate trends has earned it a place of respect and admiration both nationally and internationally.

Since her beginnings in the sector, Patricia has worked tirelessly to overcome traditional barriers, marking a before and after in the way Bolivia approaches the pharmaceutical industry. Her ability to combine innovative strategies with a pragmatic approach has been crucial in the transformation of Sigma Corp. into a regional benchmark. With a vision focused on sustainability and quality, she has led numerous projects that have strengthened not only the company's structure, but also its impact on local communities and its integration into international markets.

Business Beginnings and Expansion

In 1975, Patricia began her career at Wilstermann y Compañía, a pharmaceutical import company founded by her family, with roots in the vision of her grandfather, Carlos Wilstermann, and her father, Carlos Wilstermann II. Since joining in 1975, she has held administrative functions, starting as a secretary and, over time, working her way up in different roles within the company. Each of these roles allowed her to gain an in-depth understanding of operational and administrative processes, which laid the foundation for her subsequent leadership.

At the same time, from 1976 to 1998, Patricia studied Auditing. However, due to political conflicts in Bolivia, many universities closed at certain periods, forcing her to pause her studies on several occasions. During those times of instability, Patricia dedicated herself exclusively to work, prioritizing the continuity of her work at Wilstermann y Compañía.

Aware of the importance of her academic training, she returned to university and managed to graduate as an Auditor in 1998, thus consolidating her preparation in financial management and administrative control. This perseverance in her education reflects her determination to balance her professional responsibilities with her personal development.

Refoundation and Growth in the Pharmaceutical Industry

After years of experience and training, in 1990, Patricia and her family made the decision to reopen Wilstermann y Compañía and, at the same time, found BioFarma S.A., a company focused on the marketing and distribution of pharmaceutical products. However, the economic crisis of 1991 led Wilstermann y Compañía to a technical bankruptcy, which motivated Patricia to look for new alternatives to maintain her presence in the industry.

This is how, together with her brother and Carlos Wilstermann II, she participated in the refoundation of Industria Químico-Farmacéutica Sigma Corp., a company that had already existed since 1976 but at this point was acquired and restructured under a new strategic vision. Since 1990, Patricia has assumed a key role in financial and audit management, laying the foundations for the company's sustained growth. Her commitment to operational excellence and the implementation of financial control systems contributed significantly to the stability and expansion of the company.

Sigma Corp. Leadership and Expansion

In 2000, Patricia was appointed Director of the Accounting and Finance Department of Sigma Corp., leading the company together with Carlos Wilstermann II. During this stage, she promoted the modernization of the manufacturing, distribution and marketing processes of pharmaceutical products, consolidating the company as one of the most important in the sector in Bolivia. Her work in this position not only encompassed the management of financial resources, but also the implementation of strategies that optimized the company's overall performance.

With the retirement of Carlos Wilstermann II in 2010, Patricia assumed full responsibility as CEO and majority shareholder, leading the company into new opportunities in innovation, expansion and compliance with international regulations. Under her leadership, Sigma Corp. experienced a period of significant expansion, developing strategic alliances and strengthening its position in the global market.

Construction of the New Pharmaceutical Plant (2011 - 2016)

With a vision focused on exports and compliance with international regulations, Patricia promoted the construction of a new pharmaceutical industry in Santivañez between 2011 and 2016. This ambitious project aimed to position Sigma Corp. in international markets, complying with European quality and regulatory standards.

The new plant has:

• 15,000 square meters of land

• 7,000 square meters of construction

• State-of-the-art infrastructure for pharmaceutical manufacturing with export standards

  
  

This investment marked a milestone in the Bolivian pharmaceutical industry, allowing Sigma Corp. to compete in international markets and consolidate itself as a benchmark company in the production and export of medicines. In addition, this project symbolizes Patricia's commitment to sustainability and economic development in the region, creating jobs and establishing a model of innovation in the industry.

Legacy and Trajectory

Marlen Patricia Wilstermann-Sanzetenea's career  not only reflects her ability to adapt and overcome economic challenges, but also her long-term vision and commitment to the development of the pharmaceutical industry in Bolivia. Her leadership has been key in the transformation of Sigma Corp. into a competitive, innovative company aligned with global standards.

With more than five decades of uninterrupted work, her career is testimony to dedication, perseverance and strategic vision, establishing her as one of the most influential figures in the Bolivian pharmaceutical industry. Each of the steps she has taken in her professional career is imbued with a deep sense of responsibility and commitment towards the sustainable growth of her country.