Heidi Westphal

Hi, I’m Heidi and I’ve worked at Teva for 15 years. I’m part of the global IT Laboratory Systems team in Teva’s plant in Waterford.

Our job is to... develop technical solutions for our labs around the world. I recently moved to this department. My job title is Business Analyst in Laboratory Systems, IT Centre of Excellence (COE). This means that my team assesses the software for computerised laboratory systems to ensure they meet Teva and regulatory requirements. We then create validation documentation for these systems for use by all sites in our network. We try to find one solution to fit all sites.

My role is challenging but in a good way... We work in a fast-moving, dynamic industry with ever-changing regulations so we need to be flexible and open to change. What I love is that we work together closely as a team and share the workload equally.

I’m often found chatting to colleagues on our sites around the world about the new technologies available. We also consult with experts and vendors and offer support by finding solutions to colleagues’ technology questions.

One of the best things about Teva is... that you’re encouraged to move between departments to develop your career. 

When I joined Teva, I worked in Research and Development, staying there for 10 years and making many friends along the way. I then moved to Validation for five years before starting my current role in August. There are always opportunities if you want to enhance your future.

Being a part of the Quality Validation team and experiencing the energy, drive and relentless ‘can do’ attitude really inspired me. I am very thankful to the people who believed in me and gave me the opportunity to learn and grow, not only within the company but also as a person.

The biggest influence on my career at Teva... has been the people I have worked with; we’ve developed lifelong friendships. Colleagues have been part of my life professionally and personally and I feel like we’ve grown up together. Not only is Teva a great place to work, it’s a job that I enjoy because of the great people I get to work with - 15 years have flown by and I have made friends for life.

Teva allows you to grow and express yourself... I’ve had access to lots of training and one of my biggest achievements was completing my Masters in Industrial Pharmacy, which Teva sponsored me to do. All this has given me the confidence to apply for other roles in different departments. And it doesn’t end here - I’m still learning!

All that hard work doesn’t go unacknowledged, Teva’s ethos is to respect its people. I’ve had many company thank you cards for going the extra mile over the years – receiving one always makes me feel appreciated. There’s also our Teva rewards for bigger projects.

I’ve always found colleagues happy to share information and get involved with training others. They take their time and there’s someone there to listen and support you if you have a question. That’s one of the reasons I’m still here after 15 years!

Our mission is to be a global leader in generics and biopharmaceuticals, improving the lives of patients... We produce good quality products – so good, that I’m happy to give these products to my family. I’m proud to work for a company that believes in constantly challenging the ways it does things to be the very best that it can be.