As global healthcare systems increasingly rely on data-driven strategies, financial operations specialists like Kristine Sulakadze are playing an important role in shaping how international pharmaceutical companies structure and future-proof core processes. Based in Prague, she currently holds the position of Process Specialist in the A2R (Account to Report) Revenue department at Johnson & Johnson Global Services, a role she earned through consistent high performance, technical depth, and intersectoral expertise.
With dual master’s degrees—one in Hospital Management and another in Finance and Marketing Communications—Sulakadze exhibits the hybrid professional skillset now demanded by large healthcare corporations. Her journey began in Georgia’s public health system before expanding into private sector experience at one of the country’s largest medical networks. “My professional education and early work experience were tightly connected to the healthcare field,” she explains. “Starting with health insurance, I learned to navigate market dynamics and developed crucial patient communication skills.” This foundation eventually led her to Europe’s competitive job market.
We work to ensure recognized revenue is handed over to the reporting team on time and in compliance with GAAP and SOX standards
Relocating to Prague to pursue further studies, Sulakadze began working in the Dealer and Sales Support Division of Korean multinational Doosan Infracore. Shortly after, she moved to Johnson & Johnson.
“The hiring process was rigorous,” she recalls. “Five stages, including tests and interviews with HR, team leads, and senior management.”
Since joining in 2021, she has advanced through three roles, and now specializes in process design, automation, and compliance.
In her current position, Sulakadze is responsible for aligning revenue recognition processes with financial reporting standards, leading automation initiatives, and supporting the integration of digital tools, including AI.
“One of the major goals is standardization,” she says. “We work to ensure recognized revenue is handed over to the reporting team on time and in compliance with GAAP and SOX standards.”
Her impact, however, extends beyond her main duties. Sulakadze frequently leads MDI (Managing Daily Improvements) sessions, curates internal knowledge-sharing events, and acts as an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) power user for her team. “A deep understanding of the ERP landscape allows me to support analysts when issues arise—fixing problems in real-time helps maintain our operational momentum.”
She also plays an important role in international projects, such as the global review of discount and rebate schemes in the Innovative Medicine division.
“As a Subject Matter Expert, I was responsible for analyzing extensive datasets under tight deadlines,” she says. “The findings were later used by the Global Process Optimization team to refine business models.”
Sulakadze’s ability to work in a multicultural, multilingual corporation is thanks to her strong emphasis on communication. “Cultural awareness is essential,” she says. “I adapt to different communication styles and always aim to clarify project goals for all stakeholders involved.”
When asked about the future of AI in financial operations, she’s optimistic. “Integrating AI and digital technologies has already started to reshape healthcare finance,” Sulakadze explains. “They enhance data analysis, automate operational workflows, and free up time for higher-value activities that improve business insights.”
Integrating AI and digital technologies has already started to reshape healthcare finance
Her career trajectory reflects a constant drive toward personal and professional growth—something she attributes partly to the values passed down by her family. “Since childhood, I saw how much importance my parents placed on education. They’ve been my greatest motivation.”
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Sulakadze enjoys a healthy work-life balance—something she attributes to Johnson & Johnson’s supportive corporate environment. “The company encourages wellbeing through organized activities and a range of benefits that make it easier to find balance,” she notes. In her free time, she unwinds by playing tennis and spending quality time with loved ones.
Looking ahead, Sulakadze is focused on expanding her expertise in artificial intelligence and digital tools. “AI will soon redefine the global labor landscape. I’m investing in those skills now so I can adapt quickly and remain at the forefront of healthcare innovation.”
By Mariam Razmadze
