Driven by purpose

People What’s my why

Driven by purpose As part of the What’s My Why campaign of Novartis, we asked colleagues around the world what is driving them at work every day. Texts and podcasts by Goran Mijuk, Ann Weber, K.E.D. Coan and Michael Mildner. Photos by Laurids Jensen, Kirby Griffin and Adriano A. Biondo. Videos by Nicolas Heitz and Kirby Griffin.

Accepting challenges Masa Rugel Quality Team Leader | Ljubljana

I’ve always enjoyed challenges in life, and the natural sciences have provided plenty of them. What drew me to pharmacy was the opportunity to combine those challenges with helping people. It allows me to engage my mind while also making a tangible difference by ensuring that patients receive the medicines they need. Additionally, I take pride in supporting my colleagues – whether they’re new joiners or from different fields – by sharing my knowledge and empowering them. Together, we can grow stronger and work more effectively as a team. Listen to Masa's Story →

Forever connected Urska Kolenc Analytical Science & Technology Specialist | Ljubljana

When my daughter Ema died of a brain tumor at the age of two, my life was shattered. But today I gain strength from Ema’s fate as she inspired me to not only deepen my commitment as a scientist and to work for Novartis, which aims to reimagine medicine. Ema also led me to help create the first Association of Parents of Children with Cancer in Slovenia – something that will forever connect me to my daughter. Listen to Urska's Story →

Pushing through together Piotrek Kierszka Clinical Operations Lead | Basel

In the Translational Clinical Oncology space, where we try to translate research findings into clinically useful therapies, we are driven by a shared purpose: developing new treatments that bring hope to cancer patients. While each of us brings unique expertise, it is our collaboration that truly defines us. By uniting our strengths, we tackle complex challenges, push the boundaries of science, and create innovative solutions. In an environment of open communication and mutual respect, we not only advance research but build a community dedicated to making a difference. Listen to Piotrek's Story →

Turning loss into purpose Isha Antani Strategy Director Oncology | Basel

Having lost both my parents to COVID within just 15 days, my purpose is clear –to fight for breakthrough therapies that give patients a chance when options are scarce. I am driven by the urgency to bring life-saving innovations to market, especially for diseases with high mortality rates. Science has the power to change lives, and at Novartis, I am committed to pushing boundaries so that others don’t have to experience the same agony and loss I did. Listen to Isha's Story →

A future worth fighting for Gessami Sanchez Olle Clinical Development Director | Basel

Even though my dad passed away from colorectal cancer before I finished my Ph.D. in human genetics, it didn’t stop me from working towards preventing such diseases. Later, I learned that my son and I are carriers for another genetic disease, but luckily, we don’t show any symptoms. This made me realize that my son and any future children should inspire us to improve and develop new treatments, aiming to leave them a better world. Listen to Gessami's Story →

Opening doors to medicine Simona Bosello Global Business Executive Director | Basel

Living, working, and volunteering in remote rural communities in Africa and Asia opened my eyes to how patients must choose between health and livelihood necessities. Today, I represent an amazing team that works tirelessly to discover, develop, and provide access to novel antimalarials in endemic countries. I am driven by finding solutions to overcome healthcare barriers in low-income settings and to provide access to treatments to those in need. Listen to Simona's Story →

Chemical Revolution Michael Wessels & Team Site & Manufacturing Unit Head | Schweizerhalle

As a chemist by training, I could not be prouder to have worked with my team to create one of the world's largest siRNA production facilities in Schweizerhalle – once the backbone of the Swiss chemical industry. Working in this world-class facility is not only a personal dream come true, but also a testament to the drive of Novartis for innovation and its willingness to transform the practice of medicine for millions of people around the world with therapies that make a difference. Read about Schweizerhalle →

Chemical Revolution Michael Wessels & Team Site & Manufacturing Unit Head | Schweizerhalle

As a chemist by training, I could not be prouder to have worked with my team to create one of the world's largest siRNA production facilities in Schweizerhalle – once the backbone of the Swiss chemical industry. Working in this world-class facility is not only a personal dream come true, but also a testament to the drive of Novartis for innovation and its willingness to transform the practice of medicine for millions of people around the world with therapies that make a difference. Read about Schweizerhalle →

Passion, resilience, and helping others Vera Kuffour Manu Product Strategy Insights Manager | Maryland

My career is rooted in a lifelong passion for helping others and addressing significant health challenges. From my early days as a nurse to my work in clinical research, this passion has been the driving force behind my efforts. Experiencing a stroke in 2023 gave me a new perspective, as I found myself on the receiving end – in need of care and support. This experience deepened my gratitude for the work I do and reinforced my belief that I make a positive difference every day. Listen to Vera's Story →

The power of saying yes James Krebs Medical Science Liaison Manager | Cambridge

I love witnessing the impact each of us can have by simply saying yes more often and embracing change. Saying yes has brought me exciting adventures, successes and countless new possibilities. That’s why each day, I dedicate myself to advancing the field of nephrology and improving patients' lives, step by step. Watching the progress in kidney care and its positive impact on patients is rewarding. For me life is about making a difference through steady, positive actions and encouraging others to do the same. Listen to James' Story →

Patients in mind Frank Kolbinger Immunology and Dermatology Executive Director | Basel

After more than 30 years in therapeutic antibody development, I’ve learned that the most important thing isn’t just scientific innovation – it’s keeping the patient’s needs at the center. A truly impactful treatment is one that’s not only effective but also convenient for both doctors and patients. This idea has inspired me throughout my entire career. Listen to Frank's Story →

Tackling bold ideas Mitja Zidar Senior Expert Science & Technology | Mengeš

As a physicist by training, I am used to tackling big challenges by analyzing and breaking them into manageable pieces. As a group leader overseeing our science team in Mengeš, I bring this skill to lead my team in tackling bold challenges in the biotechnology space, which not only can make our processes more efficient but also help develop drugs that can one day save lives. Listen to Mitja's Story →

Never giving up Borut Lavric Supply Chain Management Senior Analyst | Ljubljana

When my daughter was diagnosed with Cockayne syndrome, a fatal neurodegenerative disorder, my life and that of my family was turned upside down. But we did not give up. After learning of Karolina’s disease, we did not lose hope. We connected with researchers in Portugal and the United States and worked with the Viljem Julijan Association in Slovenia to raise more than 2 million dollars to develop a gene therapy for children affected by the disorder. Through the disease, my connection to Novartis and its purpose has deepened every day as I work to save my daughter. Listen to Borut's Story →

Making a difference Sebastjan Rozman Senior Technical Transfer Lead | Ljubljana

My purpose is to grow both personally and professionally in a motivating environment while building genuine connections. With my work in the production space in the pharmaceutical sector, I’m driven by the chance to contribute to something truly meaningful – saving lives. This mission inspires me to keep striving, learning, and making a difference every step of the way.

Sharing smiles and knowledge Spela Micunovic Business Planning and Analysis Business Partner | Ljubljana

I believe I’m someone who values authenticity, both in my professional and my personal life. Collaboration is at the heart of what I do. With my outgoing nature, my willingness to help, to share knowledge, and even to share smiles, I strive to make a difference – not just for our team but also for the patients who rely on our medicines. Through everything we do in finance, I believe we’re creating real impact and bringing true value to both the patients and our organization. Listen to Spela's Story →

Driven by love Marilina Marcano Product Strategy Executive Director | East Hanover

My why is love – the love for my family and the hope to help families stay connected longer. My grandmother had Alzheimer’s, and her journey is why I joined Novartis. I became a Franchise Head of Neuroscience and led the patch globally. My legacy to the world is my son Massimo. I want him to spend many years enjoying his grandparents. I work every day to help families live more magical moments with their loved ones.

Daily commitment to impact Rachel Levine Patient Advocacy Executive Director | East Hanover

The opportunity to improve people's lives through medical innovation, or simply by recognizing their unique needs, experiences, and challenges, inspires me every day. This is why I work in healthcare and in a role that connects people and care. Whenever I face frustration with processes or bureaucracy, I look at a picture on my desk (that says “Because patients can’t wait”), and it gives me the renewed strength and motivation to keep pushing forward, knowing that the work we do truly makes a difference.

My Poppy, my inspiration Annelie Thatcher Communications Associate Director | East Hanover

In 2009, within six months of each other, I lost three grandparents to cancer –each passing within months of their diagnosis. My Poppy spent his life chasing his dream, traveling the globe as a News Limited photographer / editorial executive, telling the stories of others for 46 years, just as I do now at Novartis. The work we do at Novartis to improve and extend lives resonates deeply with me, as I would give anything to have had my Poppy’s life extended.

Limitless possibilities Vera Luginbuehl Global Medical Director | Basel

My why is a baby boy who was running out of options. He was the first Swiss patient to receive cell therapy and today, he is about the same age as my son. This is what drives me. I am fascinated by science, especially cell therapy, because there are no limits to what we can achieve. At Novartis, I am part of a journey that transforms lives, offering hope where there once was none.