London, 05 June 2025

Why do you enjoy working at Hikma?

For me, it’s about being part of a business that truly aligns with my personal values. I’ve worked in procurement for nearly two decades, and while I’ve always enjoyed the nature of the work, what makes it especially rewarding at Hikma is knowing that our efforts directly contribute to improving lives and supporting communities. It’s incredibly motivating to be part of an organisation that’s genuinely making a difference. That sense of purpose adds real meaning to what I do every day, and that’s something I value deeply.

Tell us about a pivotal moment in your career.

A defining moment for me was being promoted to lead my team. It marked a real turning point in my career, not just in title, but in mindset. Stepping into a leadership role pushed me to grow in new ways and truly own my development. It’s incredibly powerful when someone places their trust in you; that belief ignites a sense of responsibility and motivation to keep pushing forward and proving that confidence well placed.

Tell us about a challenging time in your career.

One of the biggest challenges I faced was wanting to reach my goals faster than what was realistically possible. I had to learn that growth and success don’t always follow a linear or accelerated path. That experience taught me the importance of patience, self-reflection and resilience. I realised that true progress comes from a willingness to learn, to stay open to feedback and to remain grounded in your values. It’s important to have honest conversations with yourself, about where you are, where you want to be, and what it will take to get there, and then commit to doing the work.

What qualities do you believe are essential for a career in pharma?

A positive attitude is fundamental, not just in pharma, but in any industry if you want to thrive. Specifically in the pharmaceutical sector, it’s essential to have a deep respect for regulations and compliance. We’re doing work that has a direct impact on people’s health and wellbeing, so there’s a strong ethical responsibility that comes with that. Understanding and embracing the regulatory environment is key, and it’s something I genuinely enjoy. It brings structure and purpose to our work and reminds us of the bigger picture.

What is it about procurement that excites you?

What excites me about procurement is the constant evolution. No two days are the same. The landscape is always shifting, whether due to global events like COVID-19, changing economic conditions or new sustainability priorities. Procurement sits at the heart of all of that. We play a strategic role in ensuring the business can adapt and thrive in changing circumstances. I love the challenge of finding solutions, driving efficiencies and delivering value in new ways. It’s fast-paced, it’s impactful and it keeps me on my toes.

What advice would you give to aspiring team leaders?

Support your team, that’s number one. Take the time to understand what motivates each team member and create an environment where they feel heard, empowered and challenged. Be transparent, be consistent and lead by example. Don’t be afraid to make tough decisions and always be fair. Most importantly, never stop learning, stay positive, and give your best every day.