Engineering Graduate - 2015 to 2017 at GSK
Why did you want to work for GSK?
There are many reasons that made me want to work for GSK, but the reason that influenced me the most is GSK’s culture and values of respect for people, patient-focus and integrity strongly align with my personal values. Having discovered that GSK demonstrates its commitment to the community through projects such as Orange Day, and GSK’s decision to lower drug prices by up to 25% in 50 of the poorest countries, I feel that this matches well with my desire to help others less fortunate than myself. In addition, I believe that GSK’s dedication to research and development in countries all around the world is highly admirable
What degree and university are you a graduate from?
Bachelor of Chemical Engineering (Honours) and Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Science (Formulation) from Monash University, Melbourne
What type of work do you do?
I am currently in my second rotation as a Production Engineer. My main responsibilities are to look after the new Water For Injection (WFI) plant, which involves troubleshooting and ensuring all maintenance tasks are performed on time. I am also an engineer of various projects which are implemented to improve the production system from a quality, safety and efficiency perspective.
What was your pathway into the business?
I did two summer internships with GSK as an engineer before I joined the graduate program. These internships took place at the GSKT site (China) and the Port Fairy site (previously owned by GSK). After these internships, I was sure that GSK was the perfect company for me because of the culture and the learning opportunities it provided me with.
What rotation(s) have you completed so far?
For my first rotation, I was in process validation, part of the Quality Department. My main responsibilities were to perform routine re-qualification of various processes and equipment to ensure they are compliant with regulatory requirements. I also designed qualification tests for newly implemented processes and equipment to ensure their performance mets quality standards.
I am currently in my second rotation as a Production Engineer.
What are the best aspects of being part of the Future Leaders program at GSK?
One of the hardest things we face as graduates is transitioning from University to full time work. The Future Leaders program has an excellent on-boarding program which provided me with a broad network of individuals to support this transition including my line manager and my mentor.
In my first year, I was invited to the GSK HQ in the UK to meet other Future Leader Program graduates from Europe, Asia and Central America. This allowed me to get a better understanding of GSK, the global culture, also expanded my network.
What are some of the challenges of being part of the Future Leaders program at GSK?
For me, developing my interpersonal skills in a professional context has challenged me at times; however, I am supported through this development in the program.
What advice would you give to students and graduates considering an internship or graduate role at GSK?
One piece of advice I would give is to be curious and challenge positively. By asking “why” and challenging the people you work with positively, you are generating quality discussions and knowledge sharing moments. This is where you will learn the most and gain a wider understanding of the site and processes.
How would you describe the impact of being part of the Future Leaders program at GSK, on your career so far?
By being part of the Future Leaders program at GSK, I have gained a better understanding of the business by exposing myself to 3 different roles. In addition, it is also building my engineering and leadership capabilities by offering me both tailored technical and leadership training. This sets up a solid career foundation for me at GSK.