Advance science, and one’s career at the same time
Next-gen pharma solutions — Rui Campos is emblematic of what ALTEN has to offer in terms of career development. Initially an automation expert and now a life sciences leader, he tells us here about his career path.
Reflecting on my progression at ALTEN, from a novice in life sciences to a leader in technical management, I have continuously evolved through learning and leading. Every role has been a critical step forward, building on the last to enhance not only my skills but also the capabilities of our team. Throughout this journey, my focus has been on leveraging technology to deliver positive and impactful changes.
Joining ALTEN marked a pivotal transition in my career. With a solid background in automation and practical experience in the water and oil & gas industries, I was well-prepared to tackle the new challenges of the life sciences sector—an exciting and dynamic field. My initial role at ALTEN tapped into my automation expertise but also marked my entrance into pharmaceuticals. This position provided a sturdy foundation to build upon my interests and skills in an innovative and effective environment.
As a consultant, one of my first significant challenges was to automate equipment for the development of a COVID-19 medication. This project was not only critical due to its potential global health impact but also served as a focal point in my career. It sharpened my skills in Industry 4.0 and Good Manufacturing Practices, deeply immersing me in the pharmaceutical industry’s unique challenges. This experience set the stage for my career progression, emphasising the critical impact of our work on healthcare. Progressing from Consultant to Team Leader, I took on the role of mentoring new consultants. This part of my journey was about guiding their development, instilling a culture focused on innovation, teamwork, and consistently elevating standards of excellence. Today, I hold the position of Technical Unit Manager, where I oversee broader strategic initiatives and lead larger teams. In this role, I’ve led projects aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, such as the introduction of advanced automation systems that streamline production processes andimprove data accuracy and accessibility.
Looking ahead, I’m excited by the potential integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in our operations. AI is set to revolutionise our approach of predictive maintenance and drug manufacturing. As we embrace these technologies, my focus will be placed on fostering innovation and guiding our team towards new possibilities.
