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Meet Maria

Meet Maria - Site Quality Lead

How long have you worked at AstraZeneca and What do you like most about your job?

I have worked in AstraZeneca for 10 years in two different supply site; Puerto Rico and Texas. In my role as a Quality Professional in an AstraZeneca Supply Site, I feel that it is my responsibility to advocate for the million of patients that we serve. Every single patient that takes a product from AstraZeneca is my patient. We serve patients that have life threatening diseases and they trust that we do the right thing. I have felt the proudest when people know that I work for AstraZeneca and they share how their quality of life have improved thanks to the products we manufacture.  

What do you like to do when you aren’t working?

I enjoy running, cooking, traveling and reading.  I volunteer as a member of the Coppell Educational Foundation Board of Directors which support the school district in my community.  I love spending time with my immediate and extended family.

Fun fact about you that people may not know?

I love the ocean, the outdoors and I love the sky, so I am comfortable in the water, on the ground or up in the air!

Do you have any pets? Family/children?

I have one teenage son and two step children (27 and 21). We are on a pet hiatus at the time, but soon to adopt a dog because my son claims he is ready to have a pet.  Also, my husband works for a biopharmaceutical company, which helps us be supportive of each other careers and daily challenges.

What’s your work/life balance experience been at AZ?

AstraZeneca is truly a great place to work. I have been fortunate with my line managers. In my tenure here in AZ, I have had 5 different line managers and they all have seen me as an integrated individual, with responsibilities both in and out of work. My professional relationship with them have been very transparent and open. We have clear expectations, and that helps me plan my workdays in a way that I make the most out of my hours at work.  I have relied on good time management and being very organized to be both agile and effective at work.  When I am in my personal time, I focus on my personal life. 

How do you network with other women both inside and outside of AZ?

I have been blogging and participating in networks joined predominantly by women since college.  When I joined AstraZeneca, I got directly involved with the Aspire Foundation and became a mentor for young women working in non-profit organizations.  Having a network of strong and professional women around me is a key component of my career.  I value my network as much as I value other aspects of my job.  We discuss our wins and challenges, both in and out of work, collaborate to provide resources to other women, or work together to bring online events to our site. 

What would you like other women to know about joining AZ as a new employee?

AstraZeneca is an inclusive work environment.  In my tenure in AstraZeneca, I have had equal access to opportunities. AstraZeneca values people’s input and opinion, and speaking up is a valuable tool we have as employees to make this company a great place to work.  Also, AstraZeneca has development opportunities such as Women Leaders and Emerging Talent.

What is your favourite memory while at AstraZeneca?

One of my most favourite experience in AstraZeneca was my experience as QC Manager.  Both challenging and rewarding, I had the support of many people around me, most of who believed in my capabilities, when I had doubts myself.  I had the support of two amazing women in the company: my line manager and the site general manager.

How do you feel AstraZeneca best supports your career as a female employee?

AstraZeneca values having an inclusive and diverse workforce. The company is committed to provide opportunities for women in senior roles and makes sure that Senior Leaders teams reflect the reality of the world we live in. I believe women have a lot to contribute and we bring a lot to the table. I am passionate about making a difference in society and paying it forward. I feel AstraZeneca is the place where I have been able to be authentic and feel valued.

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Glassdoor logo Rated four stars on Glassdoor

Great culture, great work assignments, supportive management. Rotation opportunity within the company. They value inclusion and diversity.