Dr Kathrin Thiesen is Director Procurement at BioNTech SE, the German biotechnology company based in Mainz that develops and manufactures active immunotherapies.
In this rapid-fire interview she talks about her career and what drives her.
What was your first job?
My first job after my PHD thesis was a position as Technology Manager in the R&D lab for active ingredients in the cosmetic company Beiersdorf (“Nivea”).
What pushed you to pursue a career in this field?
After starting my career outside the pharmaceutical industry, my scientific background as human biologist brought me back to my “roots” 2 years ago. Now I see it as perfect combination with my procurement expertise, which I gained during the last 15 years.
What would you regard as your greatest achievement to date?
Even if it is not a real achievement, I am proud to feel deep satisfaction in my job and in what I am doing every day.
What are your aspirations for the future of your work?
I would love to extend my focus on leading people and to increase my responsibilities for a larger organisation.
How would you define success?
Success for me means to build up a team of people, who are motivated, love their jobs and feel valued.
How do you find suitable suppliers who can help accelerate your work?
The values of a supplier should fit to the core values of my company. An innovative company should look especially for innovative and customer-oriented suppliers rather focusing on the cheapest one.
True partnerships means sharing of success and risks at the same time.
What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve ever been given?
Your greatest weaknesses can also be your greatest strengths.
How do you motivate yourself and your staff?
Question things, speak up and always try to bring things in the right direction.
How do you handle adversity?
I am always striving to make the best out of my situation: love it, change it or leave it!
Finally, how do you relax?
Being active in nature while hiking or doing endurance sports gives me inner peace.
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