Meet Tina, Finance Perspectives at Roche

Hi, my name is…

…Tina. I joined the Finance Perspectives programme at Roche in November 2017, starting in Treasury Operations in Basel. I’m from Germany, but have also lived in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Sweden and Switzerland. I have previously held various positions in Controlling, first at an FMCG company in the UK, and more recently at a manufacturing company in Switzerland. In addition to a BA in International Relations and an MSc in International Strategy and Economics, I obtained the Chartered Global Management Accountant designation. Outside of work, I enjoy skiing, baking and trying out new restaurants.

My typical day at work is…

…non-existent. No two days are alike, as new challenges and projects are part of my daily business. Since joining Roche, I have completed assignments in Treasury Operations in Basel, in Controlling at Roche Diagnostics Malaysia, in gRED Finance at Genentech in San Francisco, in Market Access at Roche Pharma Germany and in the Center for Financial Insights in Basel, which allowed me to learn about different areas of the business. For example, during my rotation in Treasury, I supported the Treasury Operations team in ensuring that payments run smoothly and reach their destination. In Malaysia, I was working on establishing a profitability tool, while in gRED Finance I supported some of our molecules in early clinical trials as Project Finance Manager. Currently, I am working in my first post-programme position, supporting our R&D organisation as Global Finance Business Partner.

The location I’m working at is…

…Basel, which is a great place to be—not only because of the river Rhine and its beautiful surroundings, but mainly because of its people. Basel is a truly international hub with a lot of cultural entertainment, interesting museums and exhibitions, and a variety of cuisines on offer. It’s easy to get around the city, and travelling to France, Germany and the rest of Switzerland is very convenient. Roche headquarters is within walking distance from where I currently live, and features many amenities, such as a gym, a sports club offering a wide range of sports to try, a swimming pool, several restaurants and cafes, and a dry-cleaning service.

My work helps Roche to …

…bring medicines to patients. My team supports the research and development organisation in tracking and managing their expenditures and in making the right investment decisions for the future. As strategic economic advisors, we aim to maximise the benefit we can bring to patients with our existing funds.

Roche as an employer is…

…caring and inclusive. Roche is a great company to work for, especially if you can identify with its core values of integrity, courage and passion. The culture at Roche is very open and people are approachable. They take their time to listen to what others think and feel, and are always willing to help in any way they can. The support they provided me in planning my rotations within the Finance Perspectives programme is invaluable, as it covers not only relocation services and tax advice, but also language courses and guidance on how to best advance my personal development.

For the Finance Perspectives programme we’re looking for people who…

…have an open mindset and the flexibility to move to a different geographical location and function. A positive can-do attitude, the willingness to learn and the aspiration to become a future leader are key attributes for anyone wishing to participate in the programme. Candidates should also be team players, be able to adjust to a new environment quickly, have some relevant professional experience and be passionate about finance.

What can you say about career development at Roche?

Career development is a key focus at Roche, which is why the company runs so many different programmes and courses for employees at all stages of their careers and is so supportive of anyone wishing to develop further. While Roche supports its employees in many ways, the company also expects you to be proactive about your own development. As each individual has different development needs and aspirations, it is up to you to make the most of the wide range of options available to you.

How would you describe working at Roche in three words?

Innovative, inclusive, committed.