Pf Award Winner & Regional Business Manager at Star, Greg Palin, on building the foundations for success.
Congratulations on being a Pf Award winner, how did it feel when your name was announced as winner of the Emerging Talent Award?
A shock! My name was read out last on both the list of ‘Top Candidates’ and winners so on each occasion I was surprised. Once I had collected the award, I had my photograph taken and it was only then that I understood what was happening. I was delighted to hear my name being announced, especially having been recognised as a ‘Top Candidate’ in the Primary Care Specialist category last year – to go one better felt fantastic!
How did Star support you in the application process?
My manager at the time, Gavin Gresswell, was so supportive – we discussed ideas on the phone and he sense checked my application and was a sounding board for me. The Star management team gave me flexibility to attend the assessment centre so I could give my best effort.
What does being a Pf Award winner mean to you?
It gives me confidence that I am doing my job well and that I am capable of further development (winning has given me a foundation to build on), including progressing and diversifying into other roles in the industry. It also gives me pleasure to have won, considering the high calibre of other candidates, and to have received brilliant recognition from peers.
Do you have a mentor who has helped to guide you to your current success?
My former manager, Gavin, has been a fantastic support to me over the last couple of years. He provided me with opportunities to develop and continues to be a soundboard for me even in my current role.
How did you find your way into a pharma career?
I fell into the industry to be honest. I have a family friend that worked as a Regional Business Manager, and having recently graduated from Brunel University with a First Class Honours degree in Sport Science, we had a chat about the industry, roles available, and the competencies required. I did my research and applied for a few roles before Star gave me the opportunity I needed. Early career highlights have been winning this award, being recognised as a ‘Top Candidate’ in the Primary Care Specialist category last year, being twice voted as ‘Star of the Month’ by my peers and winning multiple sales incentives.
What are your ambitions for the future?
To be the best I can be in my current role while broadening horizons across the industry to ensure my ambitions are achieved. My aim is to identify what I enjoy most and do my best! I am keen to experience Market Access and Business Development opportunities to develop my current skillset in order to adopt a National Sales Manager role within the next five years.