I joined Foundation Medicine, GmbH in May 2019, directly after completing my PhD, as an application scientist for international projects, based in Penzberg, Germany. From the very beginning, I was impressed by the fast pace of Foundation Medicine and the innovative spirit that moves our projects forward to offer each cancer patient the best care possible.
Within the first few months at Foundation medicine, I had already been involved in a technology transfer of one of our tests and had a chance to visit and strengthen our relationship with our partner laboratory in China. I have deeply enjoyed working in such an international environment. I also had a chance to lead another technology transfer from our headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts to our Penzberg site. The cross-functional collaboration necessary for this project was incredible, and the experience inspired me as I continued to move through my next roles, first as Manager for International Operations, and soon after, as a Senior Manager for International Operations.
During my career growth, coordination of the International Operations Team has continued, and currently, there are ten members of our team, reporting to Vera, VP, International Operations. As a Senior Manager, I further develop and acquire leadership skills as I lead a team of three employees, each of them committed to one or more projects within international operations.
When I think about the current International Operations Team, I think of the amount of diversity and team spirit that we have. We are a truly international team, comprised of different cultural backgrounds and varying previous work experiences. We each bring our unique work style into our projects, and our different perspectives, in order to create innovative solutions. This contributes to the success of our common mission, to transform cancer care. We have also worked to develop a strong sense of team belonging, which boosts the enthusiasm for what we do at Foundation Medicine and offers support for the obstacles we may face along the way. Only by collaborating as a team can we ensure our goals, and therefore, Foundation Medicine’s mission, can be accomplished.
Each member of the team has taught me something that has contributed to my professional and personal development. This follows my life philosophy that I can always learn something new or a new way of doing things from my colleagues. For example, I have learned how to refine my interaction and presentation skills according to my audience, cultural differences, or different backgrounds. I have experienced how much more powerful a message can be when it is communicated in an adjusted, fine-tuned style.
Working at Foundation Medicine is a privilege in many ways. Our work of providing personalized insights for cancer patients around the world is very meaningful to me. It keeps my motivation and commitment to the job very high, even in challenging times. Foundation Medicine GmbH is a fast-paced and growing company, and there are multiple opportunities for developing and rapidly advancing in your personal career path. This is a wonderful place for someone who is resourceful, ambitious and embraces change.
