19 May Infrastructure That Moves Puerto Rico Forward — A Dialogue with PharmaBoardroom

In a time when Puerto Rico is at the crossroads of opportunity and reinvention, voices like Umberto Donato’s help articulate both the urgency and the potential of what’s ahead. Recently featured in PharmaBoardroom — a global platform for healthcare and life sciences executives — DDD Group’s President shared insight on the unique construction landscape in Puerto Rico, and how thoughtful, integrated approaches can unlock lasting value for both public and private stakeholders.

The interview, appearing online and in print, is part of PharmaBoardroom’s mission to spotlight business leaders who are tackling real-world challenges with strategy, innovation, and accountability. Known for its high-level interviews and market reports, PharmaBoardroom offers peer-driven insights that are especially relevant in complex regulatory environments like Puerto Rico’s.

During the conversation, Donato highlighted how Puerto Rico continues to play a critical role in the global pharmaceutical supply chain, yet remains underserved in key areas of infrastructure and long-term planning.

He pointed out that while talent and opportunity are abundant, navigating local regulations, permitting processes, and site readiness often becomes a barrier for outside investment. That’s where experience, local knowledge, and executional speed make a real difference.

“Puerto Rico is a key player in the pharmaceutical industry and has a strong pool of talent, but many companies underestimate the level of complexity in building or expanding operations here,”

He also addressed the broader need for resilience, modernization, and sustainability, especially as Puerto Rico prepares to meet federal infrastructure demands and compete globally in innovation-driven sectors.

In that context, DDD Group’s integrated design-build model becomes more than a business strategy — it’s part of a necessary shift in how projects are conceived and delivered on the island. With in-house architecture, engineering, and construction teams, DDD aims to reduce project timelines, improve compliance outcomes, and create long-term value for clients and communities alike.

Among the projects featured in the interview:

• A $300 million joint venture at Camp Santiago, a military facility in Salinas that includes headquarters buildings, barracks, and key mission infrastructure.

• An ongoing collaboration with Lilly Pharmaceuticals, helping to modernize its campus and workplace experience as part of its long-term commitment to Puerto Rico.

• A $140 million federal project for the U.S. Coast Guard in La Puntilla focuses on energy resilience and operational readiness—a critical investment in a coastal area vulnerable to natural disasters.

Still, the message is not about one company alone. Donato emphasized that building Puerto Rico’s future requires strong public-private collaboration, smarter permitting frameworks, and consistent reinvestment in the island’s physical and human infrastructure.

“We can start with a sketch and finish with a set of keys — that’s the level of integration and ownership we bring to every project.”

This interview offers a powerful reminder to those committed to Puerto Rico’s growth, from pharmaceutical giants to federal agencies, that building smarter means building together. Read the entire interview here which will also be included in the Puerto Rico Healthcare & Life Sciences Review 2025.