From Lab Coat to Boardroom: A Medical Director's Odyssey and Advice
I had the privilege to photograph Fernanda Arnaldez, Executive Medical Director at AstraZeneca. She shared some of her journey.
“I was born and raised in Argentina attending medical school there. I completed my residency in Pediatrics while a teaching assistant in Immunology and Pharmacology. As a member of a team caring for patients with severe liver diseases, I wanted to optimize immunosuppressive therapies for organ transplants. I pursued a residence at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. As a U.S. Board-Certified Pediatrician, I was free to choose my next step.
I chose a Fellowship in Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplant at Johns Hopkins University and the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, MD. At the end of my year as Chief Fellow, I took a position as Investigator at NCI.
I loved my life in the lab, running molecular oncology experiments while taking care of patients, teaching fellows and medical students, and having the opportunity to write and conduct my clinical trials.
One day, I got a call from Novartis. I was initially lukewarm (my goal was academic tenure), but when I met with them, I was blown away by the fast pace, the innovation, and the concrete possibility of working to improve patients’ lives.
My first experience in the pharmaceutical industry was transformational. Moving to the private sector changed me. Being able to contribute tangibly to improving patients’ therapies for malignant diseases gave me a new point of view. I had such a good time at Novartis. I am very fortunate to say that in the private sector, I felt welcome, appreciated, and seen and that felt empowering.
I enjoy mentoring young investigators and colleagues. I take pride in the amazing careers that many of them have been able to develop. I also feed my curiosity and growth mindset. Here are a few things I’ve learned.
Planning is overrated. Sometimes, we have to “roll with the punches”.
Consciously use our voice to meaningfully contribute. Confrontation can be constructive – aggression and disrespect cannot. Do not hold back on questions or shy away from participating.
Making decisions in the middle of uncertainty and being held accountable for them is a key aspect of leadership. Sometimes a less-than-perfect decision is better than no decision at all.
“Growth depends in part on our level of comfort with not being “the smartest person in the room.” Aim to surround yourself with intelligent colleagues. Be humble but not self-deprecating.
“My headshot with Alissa was wonderful. I joined Chief and one of my fellow core members had her headshots done by Alissa. I was impressed by its authenticity, and I decided to reach out to her. I am so glad I did.
“Her aesthetic perspective is highly professional. What is truly amazing is her ability to look through your appearance and focus her sight on the real “you”. She radiates warmth and confidence. It was a great experience.”
Thank you, Fernanda!