Amgen’s Philip Ryan explains his role in the ever-evolving biotech sector and why you should never be afraid to take a career leap.
For Philip Ryan, a frontline manager at biotechnology company Amgen, there is no such thing as a typical day, an aspect of his role that he greatly enjoys. While his job varies, he explained that there is a key focus on safety, quality and operations.
“I manage 20 people, so it is vital that our day shift operators and engineers have full visibility into any manufacturing or engineering issues from the previous 12 hours and a clear plan to address them. While every day brings new challenges, one constant is the need for meticulous, high-quality work in our highly regulated environment, always putting patient safety first,” he said.
What skills are most crucial in your role and the wider biotech sector?
Decision-making is crucial. We operate in a fast-paced, continuous manufacturing environment where time constraints are common, so being confident and decisive is key. Teamwork is equally important. I am fortunate to work alongside some of the industry’s most talented people. Listening to their feedback and acting on it has helped me build trust and strengthen our team.
For anyone considering a career in biotech, I would emphasise the importance of relationship building. Open dialogue with colleagues supports your daily work and ultimately your longer term career growth. Biotech is a small community, your network can make a big difference.
How has Amgen supported your career development?
Amgen has supported me every step of the way, from my internship to the graduate programme to my current role as frontline manager. From day one, as an intern, I was entrusted with meaningful work. Over two years, the graduate programme gave me the freedom to explore areas of the business including scheduling, QC micro and operations, giving me a deep understanding of the business. That experience helped me find my passion in manufacturing.
Do your early experiences still impact your work today?
Absolutely. The connections I made early on are still important. For example, during the graduate programme I worked closely with the operations team, forging strong relationships in that department, the same team that builds our manufacturing processes and execution systems. Thanks to those relationships, I can confidently reach out when my team faces a process or systems challenge and we find solutions together.
What should potential applicants know before applying to the graduate programme?
Do your research. Think beyond just getting your foot in the door and consider where you see yourself long term. Align your interests and strengths with the right roles.
Reflect on your college experience – what did you genuinely enjoy? If you loved lab work in college, QC might be a fit for you. If you enjoy solving problems and collaborating with people, operations could be an option. For me, a passion for teamwork and a desire to produce life-saving medicines led me to where I am now in manufacturing.
How have advancements in technology affected your role?
There have been incredible, game-changing advances. We have introduced state-of-the-art filling machines and modular, single-use systems that speed up manufacturing without compromising quality.
Technology has also allowed us to diversify our product portfolio and work more efficiently. It’s exciting to be part of projects where you see innovation come to life.
Have you had mentors?
I have been fortunate to have great mentors at Amgen. One of the best pieces of advice that they gave me was to think ahead, to imagine where I want to be five years from now, not just focus on my current role. My mentors also encouraged me to network across the business and learn from colleagues in different departments. Those conversations gave me a clearer vision of what my future at Amgen could look like.
What advice do you have for those starting out and for seasoned professionals?
For those who are starting out, don’t shy away from challenges. Say yes to opportunities and give them your all. It’s how you build trust, which in turn creates more opportunities.
For those working in the industry, don’t be afraid to change your focus. Just because you started in one part of the industry, it doesn’t mean that you need to stay there. If there’s something you’re passionate about, find people who will support you and go for it.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Believe in yourself. I was considering whether I should apply for the managerial role. Then a colleague said to me, ‘you can do this, I believe in you’. That gave me the confidence I needed to take the leap and I haven’t looked back since. The ability to believe in myself has stayed with me and it continues to guide my career.
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