What’s your “why”?
“Transforming Lives for Generations” is the purpose of Boehringer Ingelheim that inspires the company’s more than 53,000 employees.
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GENERATIONSA global team
A global team
with a common purpose
With roots going back to the 19th century, Boehringer Ingelheim has been transforming lives for generations. Today, that legacy inspires the careers and daily work of the more than 53,000 employees around the world who are integral to the company’s success. Here, via a video call, two of those team members share their insights. Though they represent different generations and geographies, and are at different points in their professional journeys, their conversation reveals that they share similar values and a concern for a sustainable future for the generations still to come.
Reims, France,
8 a.m.
Aude Edmond
Head of Pharmacovigilance and Medical Information
“Despite working for the same company for so many years, I have always looked for new certifications opportunities to advance my career: marketing, statistics, public health, audits and finally pharmacovigilance.”
“I agree. My father died five years ago, and I recently became a grandmother. I’m more aware than ever of how important it is to foster close links between the generations. We all need to take the time to listen to one another and learn from one another, in both our personal and our professional lives.”
“Passing on our knowledge and experience is incredibly important.“Aude Edmond
“When speaking about sustainability and generations, passing on our knowledge and experience is also incredibly important. And it’s something that I am specifically focused on at the moment. I could retire in about two years, so we’re currently discussing what the team will look like when I leave, who will take on my responsibilities, and what I want to pass on to them.”
“True, there are lots of opportunities for the employees to get involved and play a part. In France, the company gives us ten days a year to work for good causes as part of the “Boehringer Ingelheim Solidaires” program. I recently helped young people with limited access to the labor market apply for jobs. All contributions you make help you develop as a person, as well. I always advise my team to use every opportunity that Boehringer Ingelheim gives them to develop.”
“I know the company very well and have witnessed its transformation over the past decades. I am very proud that Boehringer Ingelheim has never followed, but instead has been leading the way in many areas. And the company’s values were an important reason why I stayed with the company so long.”
Petaling Jaya, Malaysia,
3 p.m.
Franice Chiam
Executive Assistant
“There’s a real family atmosphere at our site in Malaysia. That helped me get my bearings during that difficult initial period. I’m now back in the office, although I fortunately also have the option of working from home. It’s a pleasure to work for a company that also focuses on the well-being of current and future generations. And to me as a mother that has become very important.”
“I also find rewarding that the company is committed to sustainability and future generations and the values that are important to me. Boehringer Ingelheim may be the third German company that I have worked for but it’s the first one to be actively focused on these topics.”
“And when it comes to sustainability activities, I think even small contributions count. For example, we try to avoid waste in the office and consider sustainability issues when we select suppliers. In my region, Boehringer Ingelheim has launched an initiative called B-Effect. Our theme for this year is to create awareness about reducing the use of disposable plastic. Globally, the company has also been working with Ashoka, a renowned non-profit organization, on various programs that aim to improve the lives of communities in underprivileged parts of the world.”
“And have you heard about the initiatives that Boehringer Ingelheim does for the mental health of its employees? Here, we hold regular meetings to get a better understanding of what the employees need, and to raise awareness of the subject of mental health. I know that every business needs to make a profit, but I’m impressed by how much Boehringer Ingelheim gives back.”
“During my career, I want to contribute and create more value in making society a better place.”Franice Chiam
“What’s really important and apparent is that the management is fully committed to the company’s values. They give us the support and encouragement we need to live out these values as well. When I think about what I would like to achieve in my career, I want to contribute and create more value in making society a better place. That’s why I hope that Boehringer Ingelheim will continue its efforts in this area and that I can be a part of them.”
