Pauline Barclay, New Zealand
Pauline left her native New Zealand to join clinical research organisation ClinTec in an administrative role at their Glasgow office.
The company is thriving and is looking to grow even further, offering more challenging opportunities.
What is your background?
I am from a clinical background, having managed clinical trials in the hospital setting first in Nelson, New Zealand, then in Wellington. I have also worked with medical teams to develop and implement software to support clinical decision making and clinical audit processes. I have close links with Scotland as my father was Scottish and I was therefore very keen to continue my career here.
What attracted you to this company?
I contacted a recruitment agency that introduced me to ClinTec International. ClinTec International was working in the areas I was interested in and offered me the opportunities I was looking for.
I was interviewed by CEO Dr Rabinder Buttar and was immediately inspired by her enthusiasm, energy and vision. Dr Buttar has established a highly professional global company committed to providing a standard of excellence in all areas of clinical research. She has such a ‘can do’ attitude and commitment to creating a collegial team, meaning that anything is possible - I was really taken by this.
What does your role currently involve?
I am personal assistant to Dr Buttar and I support her in a range of activities; managing and building her global organisation.
I deal with a wide range of people across many geographical locations in matters that touch every aspect of the company including legal, financial, business development, quality assurance, clinical, etc and I am a central contact for all ClinTec International employees.
Because we’ve been growing so rapidly, I have had to take on any challenge that comes my way; I really like being in this kind of environment, there is always something new to achieve and learn.
What’s the biggest challenge you have faced?
I have adapted easily to living in Scotland. Personally, the biggest challenge has been to balance my sense of adventure with maintaining closeness to my treasured family and friends in New Zealand and Australia. Professionally, the biggest challenge has been learning everything I need to know about ClinTec so I could be fully effective in my role.
What do you feel about moving to Scotland?
I am absolutely positive about moving to Scotland. Many aspects of the landscape are similar to New Zealand. I love the outdoors and Scotland has many beautiful outdoor attractions.
The Scottish people have a real reputation for friendliness and great hospitality and I’ve certainly seen that here.
How does Scotland compare with New Zealand?
New Zealand is geographically isolated, so just being over this side of the world is fantastic. Scotland has a great central location which is very convenient for travelling. I have travelled to France, Germany, India and Italy and I’m planning to visit Sweden and Russia soon.
What does the future hold?
ClinTec International goes from strength to strength. As the company expands, there are the prospect of many opportunities and interesting activities on the horizon. From a career path and company development point of view the future is very exciting.
I am confident of a long future for myself with ClinTec International and feel very fortunate to have the opportunity of working alongside Dr Buttar and the wonderful ClinTec team and to actually experience living in Scotland is a bonus.