UK and Ireland Medical Director

I work with medics, pharmacists and scientists to ensure the safe promotion of medicines and to run clinical studies.
What do you do?ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý
Lead a broad team of medical, pharmacist and scientifically qualified colleagues in medical affairs, clinical operation, PV and quality departments to ensure the safe promotion of medicines, run clinical studies.
What qualifications and experience do you have?
MSC, BSc, BM, dip pharm med & MRCPM
What does your typical day involve?ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý
Every day is different! Early start (avoid traffic); team meetings, individual calls; travelling to meet scientific leaders / coach team – flexible working pattern – work 2 days a week from home – output more important than 9-5 clocking on mentality
How has your career developed since you entered the industry?ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý
I have owned my own career - 4 companies, 6 roles over 7 years.
Research, early clinical development, medical affairs and senior leadership.
When did you decide on a career in the pharmaceutical industry?ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÂ
08/2007: why: looking for something different!
Trained as a pathologist; I talk too much and don't concentrate long enough for that speciality.
Do you work mostly on your own or as part of team?ÌýÌýÌý
110% teamwork.
What is it like socially where you work?ÌýÌý
Fast, fun, challenging, every day is different.
What are you most proud of in your career?ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý
Very fast positive PIM designation (see EAMS scheme). Seeing my team(s) be recognised successfully globally through company awards.
Do you think additional qualifications or experience would be an advantage for someone entering the industry now?ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý
Yes.
What possibilities are there for your career in the future?ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý
Limitless to my own needs and desires (likely geography and work / life balance for international roles).
What do you think the most important skills are for someone in your role?ÌýÌý
Negotiating, communicating, decision-making, leading teams to success rather than individually succeeding. Credible medical / technical expertise ….
What one piece of advice would you give to someone seeking a career in the pharmaceutical industry?ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌýÂ
Don't give up (I joined at a time when no-one wanted to recruit a pathologist).
Last modified: 20 September 2023
Last reviewed: 20 September 2023