Nine months ago, Dr Helene Geese began her role as a senior consultant at PharmaKorell and has since contributed to various significant projects and collaborated with different members of the team. In this post, Dr Geese reports on her start, her integration into the company, and how she has experienced the move to Lörrach both professionally and privately.
You recently moved to Lörrach to take on your role at PharmaKorell. How was the transition for you, both professionally and personally?
Professionally, I had no difficulties. I was fortunate to be directly involved in a large project with experienced colleagues and could immerse myself intensively in the subject and exchange ideas.
Personally, it was a bit bumpy. My husband didn't have a job immediately at the beginning, and I was worried whether it would work out quickly. Naturally, it was also a challenge that we initially couldn't get a kindergarten place. But thanks to the family initiative Wunderfitz, we finally found a childminder in Weil am Rhein. Although the atmosphere was different from the kindergarten, which the children were used to with many peers and various events, the care at the childminder offered valuable personal experiences and, above all, undivided attention. Additionally, we were lucky to have wonderful neighbours who made the start much easier for us.
After a few months, my husband found an interesting position at IWB in Basel, a renowned company in the field of climate-friendly energies, which even received the "Great Place to Work" award in 2022.
In the meantime, my daughter has a kindergarten place, and my son will start school this year at an excellent school in Lörrach.
What were your first impressions of PharmaKorell when you started, and how have they developed over the past nine months?
At the beginning, I had great respect for the experienced colleagues and was unsure whether I could meet the high expectations as a new QP. But I quickly realised that my colleagues are open and approachable people who don't expect you to know everything.
I was surprised by the high level of independence required in the projects. Although it was a challenge to work independently in many areas, I appreciate the freedom this offers me. The colleagues are always available for questions, but the necessity to work independently enhances my ability to find my own solutions.
I have grown into my role as a senior consultant and have become accustomed to the company's processes, including time tracking.
You are involved in several important projects, including a new project for the primary packaging of tablets for clinical studies. Can you tell us more about your role in this project and what challenges and successes you have experienced so far?
I see this project as an opportunity to learn about a different type of primary packaging. At the beginning, all documents had to be checked for feasibility and adapted to our client. In doing so, I worked intensively for the first time with our Head of Quality Assurance, Lucia Vitellozzi. It was a great pleasure to exchange ideas with her professionally. A great success was that our client was very satisfied with our work, which also pleased me greatly.
How would you describe the working environment and corporate culture at PharmaKorell? Which aspects do you like the most?
At PharmaKorell, you are a self-employed employee. You can organise your day freely and organise and prioritise your tasks independently. It feels like being self-employed, but without the financial risk. The variety of projects and tasks makes working here very pleasant. The corporate culture is based on great trust towards the employees. Flexibility, diversity, and trust are what I appreciate very much.
How was your experience integrating into the PharmaKorell team? Were there any special moments or team activities that have remained in your memory?
I was very well received into the team. Everyone is nice and approachable, so there are no difficulties integrating. What particularly remains in my memory is our team barbecue after a big jour fixe. It's a great opportunity to unite both locations and create a relaxed atmosphere.
What learning and development opportunities have you found at PharmaKorell, and how have they helped you in your role?
I learn something new every day, which makes this profession particularly exciting. You don't stay at a certain level of development but continue to grow steadily.
How do you find the work-life balance at PharmaKorell, especially after moving to a new city?
The work-life balance at PharmaKorell is unique. The managing directors place great trust in us and let you work independently. One reason I chose PharmaKorell was that I can work less here to spend more time with my children. I like to use this flexibility to finish work earlier and enjoy time with my family. In the evenings, I catch up on work, and I am very happy about this possibility.
What advice would you give to someone considering a role at PharmaKorell?
Just give it a try! I am very happy here and glad that I took this step.
How have you found the local community in Lörrach? Have you explored the region a bit?
The people in the region are friendly, but they are noticeably different from those in Göttingen, where I lived before. We are out almost every weekend exploring the surroundings. We have already done a lot of hiking in the Black Forest, but we also like to visit Switzerland and enjoy French pastries.
Looking ahead: What are you most looking forward to in your role at PharmaKorell in the coming months?
I am looking forward to more exciting and challenging projects where I can learn a lot and to working with other colleagues and getting to know them better.
___
Image source: https://www.skymaster-paragliding.de, Photographer: Walter Wagner
