Planet Pharma EU’s October MVP: Mona Azhari

We’re highlighting some of the amazing people who make up our Planet Pharma. Today, let’s get to know Mona Azhari with our Planet Pharma EU team.

Name: Mona Azhari

Job Title: Recruitment Team Lead

How does it feel to be recognised by your colleagues and what was your secret to success this month?

I am very grateful to be recognized by my colleagues and I appreciate them pushing me to my maximum potential. Recognition is always motivating to me! My secret is never give up!😊

Talk us through your recruitment experience and areas of expertise?

I have been working in recruitment for almost 7 years with experience in the US, UK and EU markets. I started in the healthcare sector and have since then grown within the life sciences field. I don’t like to box myself into one area of focus, but I do enjoy a challenging IT role.

If you could go back and give one piece of advice to yourself right at the start of your recruitment career, what would it be?

You will go through highs and lows, but the highs will always outweigh the lows. The satisfaction of doing well will be well worth the hurdle!

What advice would you give to anyone relocating from the US to Europe?

It is an exciting change where you will get exposure to different cultures. Take advantage of getting to meet new people and explore the city you are in as well as around you. As for work, facing a new challenge will give you the opportunity to grow in a way you may have not expected!

How does “staffing” differ in Europe and the US?

I used the same operating model while in the US but the major differences you will be likely to encounter is how contracting works here and the notice periods you will face. Although you may deal with longer notice periods, the volume of roles makes it easy to always have opportunities in motion. 

Since joining Planet which countries have you supported clients in?

I have supported clients in the UK, Belgium, Netherlands, Ireland, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Croatia, and more!

Is there any particular moment that stands out to you in your Recruitment career so far?

Having been promoted into a leadership role within my first year at Planet Pharma has proven to me that I have picked the right career path.

What’s one thing you’d like for potential candidates and clients to know about Planet Pharma?

There is nothing we will not try to achieve, and we will always do right by our candidates/clients.

What would you say is unique about our culture here?

It is both a team-friendly environment and a highly-competitive environment. This keeps things always fun and keeps us evolving.

Tell us more about you. Do you have any hobbies or hidden talents?

Easiest way to make me happy is a lovely dining experience or traveling!

If you threw a dinner party and could invite 4 famous faces – who would they be?

Adam Sandler, Jennifer Aniston, Blake Lively, and Celine Dion.

If you weren’t working in Recruitment, what would you be doing?

I always thought I would be a lawyer or working with animals.

Finally, what do you think makes an MVP at Planet Pharma?

Someone that can be supportive and a high achiever all at once. In the world of staffing, you will have to wear many hats at once.