Esteban Gallardo, Pharm.D., Video Interview | 2025 MHE Emerging Leaders in Healthcare

Esteban Gallardo, Pharm.D., chief of pharmacy at CareAllies, is one of this year’s Managed Healthcare Executive Emerging Leaders in Healthcare.

Editors of MHE asked each honoree to answer three questions in a video interview: What was a turning point in your career? What’s one thing you would change about U.S. healthcare? And what is a personal goal you’re hoping to accomplish this year?

Gallardo’s entry into managed care wasn’t something he planned during pharmacy school.

“I kind of envisioned myself as a practicing community pharmacist,” he said.

But it was through peer mentorship and professional networking that he discovered a different path—one that eventually led to his current leadership role.

He said those early experiences continue to shape his approach to patient care and team management.

“Those interactions that I got to have with patients, with fellow pharmacists, I still carry those experiences with me in decision-making currently,” he said.

Another pivotal moment came when Gallardo began mentoring pharmacy students and residents.

That experience created a passion for leadership and talent development, ultimately earning him accolades as a preceptor and residency program director.

“That set in motion a pathway for me to become a people leader,” he added.

When asked what he would change in the U.S. healthcare system, Gallardo focused on access.

“If I can only change one thing, I would focus it on making it easier for patients to access the care that they need.”

He pointed to the primary care shortage and discussed how pharmacists can step in to ease that gap and support care delivery.

Outside of work, Gallardo has two big goals for 2025: learning French ahead of a family trip to Paris and coaching his son’s Little League baseball team.

“Hopefully at the end of the season (we’ll) bring home a ring or a trophy as champions,” Gallardo said.