Paul Williams

Hi, I'm Paul Williams, Senior Director Corporate Affairs UK & Ireland from Teva UK

“I love being able to support our people and patients, and I can’t think of another company where employees’ needs are so much part of the DNA”

My journey at Teva began in 2005 and since then, I’ve seen the company from local, global and regional perspectives – there are plenty of opportunities here to work internationally.

When I joined Teva, it was my first job in the pharma industry, though I had transferrable skills having previously worked in PR and comms in other industries. I joined at an exciting time when the company was growing very quickly. I really enjoyed my first few years and learnt so much, growing with Teva as it expanded. By 2010, I was asked to help the regional European office and I grabbed this amazing opportunity with both hands. I was based in Amsterdam but travelled to most European countries over the next eight years and got involved in some amazing projects. I learnt about different cultures, different business models, different markets, different models of healthcare and how countries operate differently to the UK when it comes to patient care.

In 2015, I was asked if I wanted to be seconded to a very large global strategic project lasting nearly two years. This incredible opportunity meant that I could spread my wings professionally, as well as travel all over the world. I met so many interesting people who had different outlooks and experiences. It was great to be so involved in making an impact on patients and employees around the world.

When I felt like I wasn’t learning anything new and I wanted a change and to move back home to spend more time with my family, Teva was very supportive of my decision. They considered a holistic approach to what I wanted to do in my life and career. I now lead corporate affairs in the UK and Ireland cluster and I’m learning new and interesting skills, about government affairs in particular. It’s exciting to play a part in influencing government and businesses, changing mindsets and cultures.

What I love about my journey at Teva is that after 15 years and working across the globe, I’m still finding the challenge interesting. Most of all, I enjoy what I do. I love being able to support our people and patients, and I can’t think of another company where employees’ needs are so much part of the DNA.

People like me illustrate that at Teva, your career doesn’t have to be linear; you can shape your career around what’s right for you. Teva UK has a special, supportive culture and it’s very good at looking after its employees. It has a family feel where our people are supported to give their best.