Young Women who work in SET

Name Jo Banks

Job Title Process Manager

Area of SECT Science

Name of Organisation Novartis www.novartis.com

Qualifications
GCSEs (5 at C or higher) ONC Science HNC Chemistry Bsc. (Hons) Chemistry

How did you get to where you are today?
I left school with good grade GCSEs. And started at Novartis as a trainee lab. tech on 4 year apprenticeship. The company paid for part time study up to degree level (seven years!!). I spent 10 years in differing roles within the QC function , including analytical chemist and analytical research and development before moving to production in 2000 as Process Manager.

Who or what inspired you to work in this area?
I have always enjoyed chemistry.

What do you love about your job?
No two days are ever the same. It certainly isn’t a run of the mill 9 to 5 job!

What's been the highpoint of your career?
Difficult to pinpoint just one.

What is the best advice you've received?
Be yourself.

What are the most important skills in your job?
Good Communication and organisation skills.

If you need to wear special clothes for work what are they?
Whilst out on the plant, safety shoes, safety glasses, white coat and hard hat.