Two representatives of the pharmaceutical company FITOFARM shared their experience. They have different carriers, experiences, and inspirations. Yaryna Yurynets worked in a number of areas and companies. Tetyana Ponomarenko started her career at FITOFARM and was promoted within the same company.
– What was your professional career?
– I started my career as a first assistant in a pharmacy. I remember how medical representatives came to us. I liked their work and lifestyle so much that I wanted to try myself in this role. It was a long period of study, but I succeeded – I became a representative of one of the local companies. Subsequently, there was an internal competition to fill the vacancy of a marketer. I was lucky because candidates with pharmaceutical education were preferred. Then I wanted to get an experience in international pharmaceutical company, where I was able to fill the position of manager of the marketing department.
In addition to constant professional development in the field of pharmacy, I had to get the knowledge of marketing. And already in the company FITOFARM I started my career as a manager of strategic marketing. This was a very important step forward for me. Now I manage the strategic marketing department and take on current challenges side by side with the team every day. – Yaryna Yurynets.
– After graduation in 1977, I got a position in the packaging shop at Artemivsk pharmaceutical factory, where I worked for 10 years. When a position of analytical chemist in the laboratory of the quality control department became available, I was invited to work in this capacity. This experience lasted for almost 12 years. Then I was promoted to the position of the head of the quality control department, I still head it today. When I entered the university, I was supposed to work in a pharmacy, but by chance I went to work in production. And I still don't regret it. – Tetyana Ponomarenko.
– What skills are needed to succeed in the pharmaceutical field?
– First of all, you have to love what you do. This applies to all the spheres, not only pharma. It is important to be respectful of both the process and those you are doing it for. In addition, patience and perseverance are required. It is necessary to be able to find common points of intersection with each person. And, as in any profession, you should use your own approaches. – Tetyana Ponomarenko.
– Knowledge of English is mandatory. Now Ukraine is becoming a part of Europe, so you need to know English. Everything else can be gained in the process of studying and working. – Yaryna Yurynets.
– Would you like to highlight one of the women from our field who inspired you?
– I often compared my actions with those of Lydia Oleksiivna Makogon, the head of the quality control department, under whose leadership I worked. And I also remember that not everyone was able to analyze buckthorn extract the first time, but if Galina Vasylivna Zubenko did it, she always achieved a guaranteed result. We worked with her in the same team, I learned the intricacies of the profession from her. And there are many such people. Each person has their own strong points. – Tetyana Ponomarenko.
– I can't say about an individual person – it's more of a collective image. In my life, I have met several successful women who are now in leadership positions, and each of them has their own way. And, of course, an example for our entire team is Maryana Martynchuk, General Director of the FITOFARM company, who possesses such important qualities as indomitability and adaptability. – Yaryna Yurynets.
– Where can students get experience and knowledge in pharmaceuticals?
– In my opinion, practice at the workplace is important. You should not be afraid of the fact that you have the appropriate diploma, but you are offered something that is not what you would like. Just start small and achieve what you want in the future. – Tetyana Ponomarenko.
– I consider it mandatory to participate in focus groups, as well as remote work, which involves support and project work. In addition, communication and work during conferences are important. The main thing is to have a will. – Yaryna Yurynets.
– In your opinion, what can help in professional development?
– Motivation and willingness to study. If you did not learn something new during the day, then this day was spent in vain. This is my motto in life. Endurance to perform routine work is also important, and, of course, good health: you need to eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and take breaks when needed. – Yaryna Yurynets.
– The wish to develop and the ability to do one's work better than anyone else. – Tetyana Ponomarenko.
– What are your wishes for young specialists?
– Belief that you will succeed because you have chosen one of the most interesting professions. You don't even imagine what influence you have on people, what value you bring. As a first-timer in a pharmacy, you do a titanic job. Be mindful of your thoughts and believe in yourself. You need to understand that you are a very important element and know what power is behind you. – Yaryna Yurynets.
– Do not be afraid to do something new, because, as it is known, "the eyes are afraid, but the hands do." You have to constantly work on your development. The most important thing is to realize what you have in yourself and what you can give to people. When you overcome these difficulties, you become totally different person. I wish everyone good luck and peace. – Tetyana Ponomarenko.
