Michelle Irvine

About me

I was born/grew up in: Born in St Catherines, ON, and grew up in Mississauga, ON

I now live in: Guelph, ON

I completed my training/education at: Toronto School of Business and self-taught through agency, onsite education for graphics.

What I do at work

I help coordinate the creation and updating of marketing materials for oncology (cancer) patients. I also assist with logistics for conferences, advisory boards and internal meetings. I work on a Mac computer to update graphics for the promotional materials. I try to find ways to help the department save money. I have to make decisions to try to find the best value in conference logistics and costs (e.g., booths, shipping). I work as part of a team and make these decisions together with the product managers. While they owner of the budgets, I bring forward suggestions.

My career path is

After high school, I attended a business school and graduated with a certificate in legal administration. I also started to learn about graphic design on my own. I used this combination of skills to land a job as a manager of marketing and graphic design. I worked at several companies before my present role at Amgen. In each of my jobs, I further developed my graphic design skills and increased my understanding of marketing. Most of my training was at creative agencies (designing marketing materials). I have a strong work ethic and love learning new things. I’ve used this to develop a strong background and skills that are valued in our business.

I am motivated by

I like the variety of tasks and responsibilities. The most motivational aspect for me is that we are helping patients.

How I affect peoples’ lives

I believe my job is most fulfilling because we help patients fight their disease. When I produce patient booklets, I know it will help the patient better understand their treatment.

Outside of work I

I like to go to the gym and spend time with my daughter. Dining out is always fun!

My advice to others

Never limit your choices. Always keep an open mind for where you want your career to go, and what your future aspirations are.