A Strategy of Support
As Associate Director, Human Resources Business Partner (HRBP) for Global Business Operations (GBO) and Information Technology (IT) Brian works with senior leaders at these organizations to help develop workforce strategies, from talent development to employee engagement. It’s a critical role — part of BMS’ Enabling Functions group — to make sure colleagues around the world have the resources and support to do their best.
“I consider myself a coach-slash-consultant. My number one role responsibility is trying to create an engaging culture for BMS employees.”
Both organizations Brian is partnered with are part of BMS’ Enabling Functions group, which provides key support for every organization around the world. “We're like the wheels that keep the bus moving. For instance, the people I partner with in finance and IT in turn provide vital services to global drug development and early research. I consider HR, which is part of Enabling Functions, to be behind-the-scenes wizard makers.”
Honing the Cell Therapy Competitive Edge
Varshini, Senior Human Resources Business Partner, Cell Therapy (CT), brought substantial HR and pharma experience to BMS, beginning with US Commercial before moving on to Cell Therapy Operations & Development.
Cell therapy is a highly complex form of treatment whereby a patient’s own cells are used to create a sophisticated medicine designed specifically for them. The science is rapidly evolving, which brings its own challenges. For someone like Varshini, that means having a deep understanding of the demands of the field and the need to find and retain exceptional talent who can do this important work.
As an HRBP with Cell Therapy, Varshini is in effect the liaison between HR and the approximately 4,000 people working in BMS Cell Therapy around the world. From the groundbreaking science to the ultimate purpose of helping patients prevail over serious diseases, she equates her work in Cell Therapy more to a calling than a job. It’s a powerful story, one Varshini believes is worth telling.
“CAR T Cell Therapy is extremely competitive. It’s important that potential hires envision their connection to patient outcomes. Telling the BMS story is compelling and goes a long way in getting someone excited about coming here. It’s more than just filling a particular role. What we’re really saying is, ‘Are you ready to join us on this mission to actually change lives?’ That is a huge advantage.”
