Navigating from Labs to Information Management Systems (LIMS), and Finding a Home in Generation Veeva
by Katharina Klaffke, Associate Consultant in Germany
A biologist by title I started my professional career off in a Covid Lab — talk about a wild start into the industry. I then jumped into the buzzing world of a big Diagnostic company. I started out in a Quality Control laboratory — picture me, lab coat and all, diving into the nitty-gritty. Soon, I shifted gears from the laboratory to Biobanking — an engaging and challenging chapter. However, the true light bulb moment occurred when I became part of a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) Implementation team.
Suddenly, it hit me: “This is it.” The world of providing and crafting software that actually matters to healthcare companies? Count me in. Now the question was how to find that entry point into the tech consulting world — as someone with no experience with technical consulting and no notable knowledge about software development.
The answer, surprisingly, was just a Google search away. “Life sciences software companies” led me to the jackpot discovery of Veeva, and a subsequent exploration of Generation Veeva left me utterly convinced that this was the ideal fit.
What hooked me instantly was the prospect of a job that didn’t confine learning to the pages of textbooks. Having had my fill of academic reading during university, the promise of a hands-on learning experience was like a breath of fresh air. But it wasn’t just about technical skills; it was about personal development too — an aspect often overlooked in many workplaces. Moreover, the environment promised to be more than just a workplace; it was a place where ‘fun’ wasn’t a forbidden word. This resonated deeply with my desire for a job that was not just professionally fulfilling but genuinely enjoyable.
The interview process, though intense, felt strangely comfortable and even enjoyable. During my peer-to-peer interview, I threw in the million-dollar question: Where is the catch? I simply could not believe that the workplace utopia described to me was as good as it sounded. There was no catch. The openness and friendliness of my interviewing partner only solidified my determination to snag a spot in Generation Veeva’s Consultant Development Program (CDP).
Fast forward to Bootcamp — an intense yet eye-opening experience. During Bootcamp, I got to meet my fellow colleagues who were starting this journey into tech consulting with me. We were provided with an extensive base knowledge about the life science industry and Veeva’s diverse product portfolio — and of course, we also got to connect with fellow Veevans in the office! The Barcelona office radiated warmth, and the team’s willingness to share experiences and insights made it feel like joining a big, vibrant community.
To me, Veeva’s culture isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the daily reality. Everyone pitches in, offering help or pointing you to someone who can. It’s this collaborative spirit that turns each day into a shared journey of growth.
I’ve learned that questions are golden. The more you ask, the more you understand. Even when you think you’ve got it, asking more questions reveals the broader picture, expanding your knowledge.
Mistakes are embraced as part of the learning process. The emphasis is not on avoiding them and getting stuck in the process but on learning from them. Colleagues willingly offer guidance, turning mistakes into stepping stones for personal and professional development.
Proactivity is the name of the game. While managers provide opportunities, seeking them out on your own is the real game-changer. In the vibrant world of Veeva, those who explore and inquire find themselves on a path of continuous growth.
In essence, my Veeva journey is a story of a culture that celebrates learning, embraces challenges, facilitates growth, and builds a collaborative spirit. From an extensive interview process to an empowering Bootcamp and now every day in my average workday, every moment reaffirms that I’m not just part of a company; I’m part of a vibrant community invested in collective employee and customer success.
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The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Veeva.
