During my assignment I learned about:
What makes this program truly unique is the amount of learnings and experiences you collect in a short amount of time, ranging from cultural topics, geographical considerations to how business challenges change depending on function.
My first assignment was back in October 2013, in Talent Management and Learning & Development for the EMEA LATAM region based out of Basel. Here, I learnt about the Pharma and Diagnostics businesses as well as how it is to work in a matrix organization. After Basel, I moved to Shanghai to support the roll-out of an HR system and the set-up of a Shared Service Center with Change Management and Training. I really enjoyed working in a culture very different from my own, and seeing how HR helps Roche foster a corporate culture that transcends geographical boundaries – that the “Roche Culture” can be found all across our affiliates. As my last assignment, I went to South San Francisco to support the Research and Early Development function as an HR Business Partner. In addition to the on-the-job learnings, such as Performance Management, Compensation & Benefits, Talent Management and Succession Planning, I was also excited to learn more about our core business and to interact with the scientists that are constantly advancing the capabilities of our healthcare.
Overall, it has been an incredible journey throughout the program and I feel confident and well prepared for my now permanent position as a Global HR Business Partner and Project Manager within the Diagnostics business.
From a personal perspective my biggest learning so far is:
The importance of understanding, respecting and leveraging different backgrounds for business success and how to do this in an effective way. During my time at Roche I have always been amazed by the diverse backgrounds of my colleagues and I have seen first-hand how powerful this is when collaborating towards a common goal. Seemingly impossible business challenges can be overcome by leveraging our diverse backgrounds and perspectives, and in the end to improve patient’s lives.