Monica Gautam

About me

I was born/grew up in: Antigonish, Nova Scotia

I now live in: Georgetown, Ontario

I completed my training/education at: Dalhousie University for Pharmacy and University of Toronto for Doctor of Pharmacy

What I do at work

After a 20+ year career, I now own my own business. We provide expert, flexible and creative solutions for biopharmaceutical companies and their partners. Our goal is to increase the productivity, quality and impact of their Medical Affairs teams. I also teach at the University of Toronto.

As a pharmacist, I seek to understand how new medications can help patients. I assist pharmaceutical companies to solve problems in bringing new medicines to Canadians. This requires a strong understanding of the Canadian health care system. I also have to understand clinical practice and the drug development process. Working with their team, I provide my clients with advice and creative suggestions to help them be successful. This ultimately will improve the care of Canadian patients.

My career path is

At first I chose pharmacy as a career because I liked science and working with others. In pharmacy school, I saw myself working in a community pharmacy for my career. I did this type of work for only two years because I wanted more variety and different challenges. I didn't expect to go work in the biopharmaceutical industry. I also didn’t expect that I would lead a team of professionals nor teach at the university level. But these things have been the greatest joys of my career.

I am motivated by

I love that my career allows me to stay on top of new advances in healthcare. I really enjoy working with other people in a team environment. I also like that I get to help solve complex problems in a creative manner. Being responsible for a variety of tasks is also rewarding. No two days are ever the same and it keeps work fun.

How I affect peoples’ lives

Helping sick patients receive therapies that improve their life is what makes my work fulfilling.

Outside of work I

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, reading, baking and playing board games.

My advice to others

Pharmacy is a wonderful career with so many different work opportunities. My best advice is to understand what you are really good at doing and be willing to take risks to follow your dreams. With calculated risks, unexpected rewards may be possible. Keep an open mind.