Samantha N. Presley, EdD, has established outstanding career in the medical device and pharmaceutical industries spans two decades, marked by progressive leadership roles and a reputation for excellence in strategy, training, leadership development, culture building and team building. Since 2025, she has excelled as the vice president of global learning and development at PROCEPT BioRobotics Corporation in San Diego. In this capacity, she manages both the sales training and surgeon education departments, oversees the development of her team and coaches new leaders. Dr. Presley’s responsibilities include presenting to groups, developing future leaders and traveling extensively to ensure the highest standards in professional education.
Prior to her present position, Dr. Presley advanced through PROCEPT BioRobotics Corporation as the director of global learning and development from 2021 to 2023 and the senior director of global learning and development from 2023 to 2025. During this time, she played a pivotal role in shaping the education process for new sales training and surgeon education initiatives. Dr. Presley’s expertise was instrumental in building comprehensive programs focused on adult learning for complex medical device and pharmaceutical concepts.
Before joining PROCEPT BioRobotics Corporation, Dr. Presley worked as the director of global sales training at Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. from 2020 to 2021. In this role, she contributed to the advancement of sales training strategies within a leading scientific services organization. From 2018 to 2020, she served as principal at IQVIA in the Greater San Diego Area, providing critical insights into patient data and market opportunities for biopharma and medical device startups. During her tenure, Dr. Presley successfully built a territory valued at $2.3 million in her first year and later advanced to a senior director role.
Dr. Presley’s earlier professional experience includes her tenure as manager of international sales training and development for spine surgery at NuVasive from 2016 to 2018. In this post, she was responsible for building the Out-of-United-States strategy during her training period, developing processes for distributors and direct employees while reporting to both domestic and international teams. This tenure marked a significant turning point in her career as she navigated complex organizational structures and contributed to minimally invasive spine surgery advancements.
From 2014 to 2016, Dr. Presley worked as a senior sales trainer in robotic surgery at Intuitive Surgical Operations Inc., where she received comprehensive training across all robotic platforms with a focus on advanced technologies in colorectal and thoracic surgery. Her transition into this field was influenced by a mentor who recognized her potential for training roles within high-tech surgical environments.
Dr. Presley previously refined her skills as a senior sales representative at GSK plc. in Palm Springs from 2006 to 2010 and a sales representative with Eli Lilly and Company, now known as Lilly USA LLC, from 2010 to 2012. Throughout these roles, she consistently achieved President’s Council or Winner’s Circle status every year, regardless of company or product line, a testament to her expertise in selling and her ability to thrive in competitive environments.
Dr. Presley’s academic foundation has been integral to her professional success. She initially pursued an education at the University of La Verne, from which she obtained a Bachelor of Science in psychology and a Master of Science in leadership and management with an emphasis on organizational development. Dr. Presley ultimately graduated with a Doctor of Education in organizational change and leadership from USC Rossier in 2023 while balancing her demanding primary responsibilities and family commitments.
Dr. Presley’s affiliation with organizations such as LTEN – Life Sciences Trainers & Educators Network, Sigma Kappa and Alpha Chi reflect her commitment to ongoing professional development and networking within her field. She likewise supports her community as an ambassador for Sandler and Insights Discovery, along with volunteer work for Sacred Heart, CityTeam, United Way and Crazy 4 Kids.
Throughout her journey, Dr. Presley attributes her accomplishments not only to grit but also to intentional daily actions that go beyond traditional motivations like financial gain or job titles. Her primary inspiration remains her daughter, Addison Riley, also known as “Roo,” as supporting her child is her greatest achievement and driving force.
Born in Santa Monica, Dr. Presley remains passionate about mentoring others within her organization and beyond, striving to make a meaningful impact by sharing skills that extend past conventional learning methods. Looking toward the future, he is focused on making a lasting contribution centered on patient safety and experience through continued mentorship, publishing work based on her dissertation research and helping individuals exceed their own expectations as professionals. Dr. Presley’s dedication has not only propelled her forward within highly competitive industries but also enriched every aspect of her life, fulfilling her aspirations while giving back to the broader community through service and leadership.