Earlier this year we had open positions on the PHUSE Board of Directors, one of which was for a US-based Special Project Director. As our reach within the Americas region expands, PHUSE needed someone ‘on the ground’ to help deliver the growth and development that we foresee over the next few years.

So, it is with pleasure that we introduce Shereen Khwajazada to the PHUSE Board. She currently works at Summit Analytical as Director, Project Management & Human Resources. With many years of experience in project management in the pharmaceutical industry, she has already brought a fresh approach to Board proceedings and has provided some innovative suggestions for future direction.

To give you an idea of what drives Shereen, we sat down recently for some insights:

What inspired you to pursue the role of PHUSE Special Projects Director?

I have continued to be impressed by PHUSE’s collaboration model around innovation and standards, which is a shared value of mine. It is also a privilege to participate in a community with high-calibre content, conference papers, posters and speakers. I have referenced many papers from the PHUSE Archive, especially upon entering the industry. I am honoured to have been chosen to serve as Special Projects Director! It feels like a pipedream.

What unique perspective do you bring to the table?

I really enjoy supporting simultaneous projects; it keeps life interesting!

I feel very welcomed by the Board to be given the opportunity to share innovative ideas that may have not yet been explored and to offer a fresh perspective. It is quite exciting to invite new approaches and ideas to further drive innovation.

How would you describe yourself in five words?

Loyal, passionate, persistent, ambitious and empathetic.

What are you most looking forward to in your role as PHUSE Special Projects Director?

I’m excited about continuing to surround myself with lifelong learners with shared values and mindset. I’m motivated and disciplined to tackle PHUSE’s special projects to meet the needs of their current and future goals and milestones. What I am most looking forward to is engaging and collaborating in the shared mission of advancing the future of life sciences through the open sharing of knowledge.

From your experience, what key lessons will be valuable in this role?

The first is, you learn more by listening than talking. The second is understanding that not every idea is a gem – and that’s OK. And finally, having fun with it. In the end, being part of a team with a shared goal and mindset is an exciting challenge.

What’s one professional achievement you’re most proud of?

Cultivating fantastic teams! Overseeing and supporting projects which have received agency approval. And leading up automation efforts to reduce redundancies, improve quality and truncate timelines.

What piece of advice would you give to someone just starting out in the industry and to someone well established in their career?

To sum it up in one word – for both newcomers and well-established professionals – I would say humility.

What I have found to be the key to success in this industry, and frankly in any role, is acknowledging that you’re not the smartest person in the room. Be vulnerable by knowing your strengths and weaknesses and don’t feel pressured to hide them. Make the most of the shared knowledge base offered. As with any venture, it takes a village. Build a strong one behind you, and the possibilities will be endless!

Please join us in welcoming Shereen to the Board and feel free to view the Volunteers Board to view available opportunities for you to get involved in furthering the PHUSE message.