At GMDP, we’re continually exploring the concept of Professional Identity (PI) in medicines development—a subject that deeply shapes how we approach our roles in the industry. If you’ve been following us, you know how important it is to understand one’s professional identity for meaningful personal and professional growth.

We’re excited to share the first of several powerful perspectives from the GMDP Academy’s 2024 cohort. These essays were among the highest-scoring submissions from this year’s program and offer honest reflections from emerging leaders in the field.

Today’s feature comes from My Hoa Ly, whose journey from working as a translator in an international clinic to managing regional projects at Pfizer shows how professional identity and purpose evolve over time. Her experiences highlight how challenges, mentorship, continuous learning—including participation in the GMDP Academy’s Certification in Medicines Development Program—and other influences have all contributed to shaping a meaningful career in medicines development.

As you read her reflection, we invite you to think about your own journey: How has your professional identity evolved? What does your sense of purpose look like today—and where might it take you next?

📖 Read My Hoa Ly’s full essay below, and stay tuned for more inspiring perspectives from the 2024 cohort.

From a young age, my passion for science has driven my academic and professional pursuits. This passion led me to study at The University of Melbourne, where I graduated with a Bachelor of Biomedicine in 2014. This education deepened my understanding of biomedical sciences and ignited a desire to make meaningful contributions to the field.

I began my career as a doctor’s assistant in an international clinic, supporting the doctor by providing Vietnamese translations for patients. While this job allowed me to help others and gain valuable experience in a clinical setting, I found myself yearning to apply my scientific knowledge more directly. The lack of opportunities to utilize my expertise in pharmacology led me to seek a position where I could engage more deeply with the scientific aspects of healthcare.

My next role as a lab technician in a local pharmaceutical company involved analyzing and performing quality control checks on products before they were released to the market. This job honed my technical skills and gave me a deeper understanding of the pharmaceutical industry. However, constant exposure to chemicals began to affect my health, and the lack of English-speaking opportunities left me feeling isolated from the global scientific community.

In 2018, a significant milestone in my career occurred when I joined Pfizer Vietnam. Initially, I worked as a reviewer for local promotional materials, leveraging my scientific background and critical thinking skills. This position was a turning point, as it provided me with the opportunity to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. I was able to collaborate with colleagues from around the world, which broadened my perspective and enhanced my professional identity.

Currently, I serve as a regional project manager for the Emerging Markets at Pfizer, a role that has further solidified my professional identity and sense of purpose. In this position, I navigate the complexities of a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous) environment, which has sharpened my problem-solving abilities and adaptability. Working with a diverse team has allowed me to apply my skills in stakeholder management and communication, areas that my manager has encouraged me to develop further.

My manager’s support has been instrumental in my professional growth. She has provided valuable feedback and encouraged me to pursue continuous learning opportunities. One such opportunity was enrolling in the GMDP Academy's Certification in Medicines Development Program for the 2024 cohort. This program has been transformative, offering a comprehensive overview of critical thinking and professional skills necessary for leadership in the pharmaceutical industry. Engaging in this course has provided me with valuable insights into the challenges of medicine development and the critical role of medical affairs professionals. It has enabled me to pinpoint areas where my role can significantly contribute to shaping Pfizer’s external narrative, emphasizing a tradition of ethical and impactful communication within the pharmaceutical industry.

Reflecting on my journey, I realize that my professional identity and sense of purpose have evolved significantly. Each role has contributed to my growth, teaching me valuable lessons and helping me refine my career goals. My experiences have underscored the importance of aligning my work with my passion for science and my desire to contribute to the healthcare industry.

Looking ahead, I am excited about the future prospects that lie before me. My professional identity, shaped by my diverse experiences and continuous learning, will guide me as I strive to make meaningful contributions to the pharmaceutical industry. I am committed to leveraging my skills and knowledge to drive innovation and improve patient outcomes. My sense of purpose remains steadfast: to be a leader who makes a profound impact in the world of healthcare.

About My Hoa

My name is My Hoa Ly, and I am a Medical Communications and Content Senior Manager at Pfizer. I lead the development and repurposing of high-quality scientific content across Emerging Markets. Based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam I enjoy traveling and collecting stamps, postcards, and fridge magnets.

Disclaimers

  • The material in these reviews is from various public open access sources, meant for educational and informational purposes only
  • Any personal opinions expressed are those of only the author(s) and are not intended to represent the position of any organization(s)
  • No official support by any organization(s) has been provided or should be inferred