Roni, Director, Global Veterinary Medicine Research and Development (VMRD), has built a vibrant 24-year career at Zoetis and its predecessor companies. She currently manages a team that looks after regulatory activities associated with global pharmacovigilance, but she began her journey in the laboratory as a technician. Roni says that our collaborative culture, underlined by our Core Belief to work as One Zoetis, has been a great foundation for her work. Read on to learn how this dynamic colleague balances being a mother of four, volunteering and making an impact at Zoetis.
A Continuous Learning Experience
An inquisitive mind has driven Roni’s career. “I love a challenge. I’ve always had a need to continue to grow and change, and Zoetis has provided a place for me to do that. I learned so much when I transitioned from the lab to an auditor role with quality assurance. It was a lesson in learning to work under heavy pressure, be flexible and gain cultural understanding.” As an auditor, Roni organized and staffed inspections of our Kalamazoo facility for regulatory agencies from all over the world. When organizing the inspections, Roni drew inspiration from an unexpected place – her background in community theater: “My experience directing theater made me realize that I love putting all the pieces together for a project. I am a firm believer in building on what you know, and it was wonderful to discover that I could apply some of the skills I learned from my personal interests backstage to my job in animal health.” Further to building on her experiences, Roni’s current role in pharmacovigilance is a product of the broadened perspective on the business which she gained on the Audits and Inspection team.
A Leader Who Makes a Difference
When asked about what makes Roni a good leader, one of her team members Carol, Manager, VMRD Global Regulatory Affairs, said, “Roni has been my manager/ director/cheerleader/ mentor for seven years. She has developed our team into a working group that supports each other and provides value to the organization. Additionally, she recognizes each person’s strengths, talents and passions and encourages us to grow in those areas.”
Roni’s manager, David, Vice President, Global Regulatory Affairs, VMRD said: “If I was looking to identify a role model for new employees, I would point them to Roni. She is willing to take on new tasks, step out of her comfort zone, be a difference maker and deliver results: all things that set apart outstanding colleagues.”
Roni is also committed to making a difference outside of work. She regularly volunteers at a local facility dedicated to Alzheimer’s and dementia residents, helps out at a homeless shelter, and serves as a mentor with the Zoetis chapter of Toastmasters. This is in addition to her most impactful role: mother of four children – Joshua, 21, Madison, 19, and twins Isaac and Aurelia, 9.
A Caring Company
“Zoetis has not only invested in my career development, the company has also been a support in my family life,” said Roni. Using Zoetis’ Education Assistance program, she was able to advance her degree to reach her next career goal. Utilizing the company’s generous Work and Family Support program has allowed her grow her family as well. “I am very lucky to work for an organization that understands the value of investing in its people,” she adds.