A 20-Year Journey in Pharmaceuticals: How an Outsider Became a Marketing Maverick
Many in the industry recognize Mr. Nguyễn Ngọc Toàn as the Director of Antibiotics and later Marketing Operations at DHG Pharma. Yet, few know he didn’t graduate in this field over two decades ago. With a background in economics and IT, he joined DHG Pharma in 2010 as a market researcher—a role that set the stage for his remarkable career.
His rapid learning curve, fueled by hands-on experience, became the cornerstone of his success at DHG Pharma. Typically, mastering a new field requires 10,000 hours of practice. The pharmaceutical industry, with its humanitarian focus and complexity, inspired him to double his efforts, accelerating his journey to expertise.
According to Toàn, pharmaceutical marketing demands an intimate understanding of the distribution network, from pharmacies to hospitals—especially within DHG Pharma’s vast nationwide system. Over the years, he spent more time in the field than in the office, engaging with doctors and pharmacists to uncover industry insights and ensure the execution of marketing strategies.
Today, DHG Pharma’s multi-channel distribution network spans over 30,000 traditional pharmacies, 3,200 hospitals and clinics, and 3,500 outlets across 5 major pharmacy chains, covering urban, provincial, and rural areas. Toàn takes pride in having visited even the most remote healthcare facilities, from the southwestern borders to the northernmost regions, understanding the diverse needs of Vietnam’s population.
The Unique Insights of Pharmaceutical Marketing
To win over medical experts, pharmaceutical products must meet stringent quality standards and comply with strict regulations. However, quality alone isn’t enough. Toàn emphasizes the importance of providing scientific evidence and real-world proof to doctors, who play a critical role in prescribing medications.
At DHG Pharma, M.Sc. Nguyễn Ngọc Toàn is hailed as the leader behind the Antibiotics division’s remarkable growth.
“The pharmaceutical industry differs from retail because patients rely on doctors’ prescriptions, not their own choices. Doctors, with nearly a decade of training, prioritize their professional reputation. Thus, we must provide not only high-quality products but also scientific research and clinical data to build trust,” Toàn explains.
Within just four years at DHG Pharma, Toàn was appointed to lead the Antibiotics division. Under his leadership, the division has consistently accounted for 40% of DHG Pharma’s revenue over 15 years, growing from 1.3 trillion VND in 2014 to 2.3 trillion VND in 2024, despite a declining prescription drug market.
Beyond revenue, DHG Pharma’s antibiotics are available in the most remote areas, from Hà Giang to Cà Mau and even offshore islands. Wherever antibiotics are needed in Vietnam, DHG Pharma’s products are there.
“Pharmaceutical marketing is unique because it directly impacts the health and well-being of families and communities. This responsibility drives my passion for the work,” Toàn shares, explaining his nearly two-decade commitment to the field.
A Sought-After Talent in the Pharmaceutical Industry
With 20 years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of regional markets, Toàn is highly sought after by HR departments across the industry. His ability to empathize with customers and his philosophy of “giving before receiving” have earned him a loyal following among clients.
M.Sc. Nguyễn Ngọc Toàn treats customers’ concerns as his own, fostering deep trust and loyalty.
At DHG Pharma, where over 150 out of 300 products meet Japan-GMP and EU-GMP standards, Toàn is focused on leveraging AI, Big Data, and blockchain to enhance marketing strategies for the company’s nine core divisions. However, he believes technology cannot replace human expertise.
“Our marketing strategy centers on three pillars: personnel, experts, and customers. The key is to demonstrate product quality and build trust with both experts and consumers,” Toàn notes.
Under his leadership, DHG Pharma’s team has become a cohesive unit, driven by a culture of continuous improvement. Toàn not only shares his wealth of experience but also encourages open dialogue, helping team members identify blind spots and grow professionally.
Following DHG Pharma’s partnership with Taisho (Japan), the company’s marketing approach is evolving from a local enterprise to a global player with world-class manufacturing standards. While strategies adapt, Toàn stresses the importance of preserving DHG Pharma’s cultural identity and the spirit of the Mekong Delta.
“Authenticity and sincerity are the core values passed down through generations at DHG Pharma. Even with competitors, we maintain ethical standards, avoiding commentary on their missteps—a principle instilled by our predecessors,” Toàn reflects.
From an outsider to a pharmaceutical marketing leader, M.Sc. Nguyễn Ngọc Toàn has built trust with millions of Vietnamese consumers through dedication and professionalism.
Over nearly two decades, Toàn’s journey at DHG Pharma has been marked by impressive growth and a commitment to community service. His story exemplifies how sincerity, expertise, and gratitude can transform an industry and inspire trust in Vietnamese pharmaceuticals.
DHG Pharma Maintains 14-Year Streak in Vietnam’s Top 50 Most Efficient Business Companies
On September 27, 2025, at the Corporate Governance Conference 2025 held in Ho Chi Minh City, DHG Pharma was once again honored as one of the 50 Most Effective Business Companies in Vietnam 2025. This marks the 14th consecutive year the company has been among the top 5 recipients of this prestigious recognition, solidifying its position as the leading domestic pharmaceutical company in the nation.
“13 Years Running: DHG Pharma’s Stellar Performance in Vietnam’s Top 50 Listed Companies.”
DHG Pharma cements its pioneering position in the pharmaceutical industry, earning the prestigious Forbes recognition as one of the “Top 50 Best Listed Companies in Vietnam” for the 13th consecutive year.
The Struggling Real Estate Firm’s New Venture: A Bold Move into Pharmaceuticals
NRC Group JSC has had its fair share of challenges, but the company is now turning a new leaf with the establishment of NRC Pharma Co., Ltd. With a diverse range of 24 business sectors, NRC Pharma is poised to become a powerhouse in the industry. From cosmetics and pharmaceuticals to wholesale vaccine distribution and healthcare products, NRC Pharma is committed to delivering a wide array of quality products and services to its customers.
Revolutionizing the Industry: NRC Expands Horizons with a New Name and Venture into Pharmaceuticals
The Board of Directors of NRC Corporation (HNX: NRC) has approved the establishment of NRC Pharma LLC with a chartered capital of VND 50 billion. The new subsidiary will be headquartered in Tan Dinh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, and NRC will contribute the entire capital to this new venture.
The Ultimate Recession-Proof Industry: A $70 Billion Behemoth, with Retail Giants Scrambling to Open Stores in Rural and Urban Areas Alike
The pharmaceutical retail market is often deemed “recession-proof”, owing to the consistent demand for pharmaceuticals, which remains imperative despite macroeconomic fluctuations. In the context of Vietnam, with its aging population and growing middle class, the demand for healthcare, and by extension, the pharmaceutical industry, is experiencing unwavering growth, as highlighted by Vietdata, a prominent provider of reports on the Vietnamese economy.
