Compliance Director

So, what do you do?

I am responsible for maintaining compliance in the multi-country organisation of the UK and Ireland. I am a final signatory in line with PMCPA & MHRA requirements and raise awareness of compliance, ethics and changes in laws and regulations in the organisation. I also regularly perform audits and am part of a Global Compliance Team, focussing on putting patients first and enhancing and maintaining  company reputation. In addition I manage a team responsible for the disclosure of transfers of value as required by EFPIA

What does your typical day involve?

• Approving cross border use of Health Care Professionals globally
• Writing or reviewing policies /procedures
• Attending meetings within the organisation or external groups/forums or both (e.g. ABPI groups)
• Planning or leading training sessions
• Liaising cross functionally across the business
• Dealing with day to day queries

Do you work mostly on your own or as part of team?

I work as part of a team, but my role is very autonomous

How long have you been in your current role?

I have only been in my present role six months  but have been in the field of compliance since 2009. I joined the industry from nursing in 2001.

What qualifications and experience do you have?

• A Levels
• Registered Nurse
• Diplomas in Nursing/Health related areas
• Teaching and Assessing qualification
• ABPI Exam for medical representatives

When and why did you decide on a career in the pharmaceutical industry?

I joined the industry after being in the nursing profession for over 20 years; I wanted a change but still wanted to be in an area that would benefit patients.

The pharmaceutical industry was a great choice because I get to see and hear how our medicines help people every day, all over the world.

How has your career developed since you left school, college or university?

My career has continually grown each and every year.

Do you think additional qualifications or experience would be an advantage for someone entering the industry now? What might be valuable?

I think science/health related subjects are always very useful, but there are so many roles in the industry that it does vary role to role

What is it like socially where you work?

It is a very social environment; people are very friendly and easy to work with. We all work hard and sometimes very long hours, but we take time to meet at lunch for a chat or share an evening out sometimes.

What are you most proud of in your career?

My proudest moments remain in my nursing career but in the industry I have twice been rewarded for being in the top 10% of achievers in the company. I have also felt very proud when junior colleagues I have coached have gone on to pass their ABPI exam, especially after having doubted themselves.

What possibilities are there for your career in the future? 

There are possibilities for positions in our global headquarters.

What do you think are the most important skills for someone in your role to have?

The ability to keep calm under pressure, being able to think of the "bigger picture" and having a good sense of humour.

What is the one piece of advice you would give to someone seeking a career in the pharmaceutical industry?

I would highly recommend doing some research into the industry, find someone already working in the area and quiz them!