Life as a Client Services Director

How did you end up in Client Services?

My focus had always been obtaining my university degree and embracing that life at the time. When I graduated, I got a job in PR as an Account Executive—which was my first foray into the unknown. A few years later I moved into the healthcare advertising industry and found my niche in client services. In hindsight, the journey made sense. I’ve always loved organizing people, places, and things—so managing teams and clients was a natural fit. I loved business and communications strategy, so it was no surprise this was what I developed a passion for!

What do you find most rewarding about your work?

I particularly enjoy seeing a project through to the end, making sure others have what they need to succeed, and getting great feedback from clients that you’ve made their job that little bit better. I also love problem solving—whether it’s business, brand, communications, or team management. Fundamentally, what’s most rewarding is working with like-minded people who understand the value of hard work and comradery.

What does it take to succeed in your role?

Nothing in the life science industry or client services is easy. If you’re looking for a predictable role, then client services may not be for you. However, it is the unpredictability and richness of what each week holds that I love so much about what I do. Of course, I plan and have a good idea of what’s ahead, but something or someone will always throw you a curve ball.

To succeed in client services, you have to be adaptable; you have to be tenacious and resilient; but most of all, you need to believe that what you do makes a difference.

Being organized and approachable is a given, but most importantly you need to be pragmatic. Things aren’t always going to go your way, and not everyone will agree with you, so you need the ability to recalibrate, listen to what others have to say, and keep going. A job worth doing is a job worth doing well!

Why work for Avalere Health?

I’ve worked for various companies in my career, experiencing highs and lows at each one. My experiences have helped me realize the importance of a company not only talking about caring for its people and being fully committed to nurturing careers and personal development—but that the company follows through. Avalere Health is one of the few companies that I truly believe does this.

Working here is like being part of a family in body and in spirit. Avalere Health takes an interest not just in your personal growth at work but is also committed to making sure you have a life outside of work. What you have to say within the company counts and is welcomed and heard. When I joined the company, my colleagues made me feel so at home and adjusted, that after a fortnight, I honestly felt like I had been here for years.

Avalere Health gives you the tools to be the best version of yourself, provides numerous training opportunities, and rewards you for your hard work and commitment.

After a busy work week, how do you unwind?

I like nothing more than to catch up with friends or family over a glass of red wine. I’ve always loved a good chat!

How do you manage your work-life balance?

I maintain my commitment to my hobbies, exercise sessions, and events that I book in. I know I’m going to have to work extra hours occasionally, but I ensure it’s not at the detriment of doing what I love outside of work. When I’ve finished work for the day, I make sure I’ve fully switched off so I can give my undivided attention to friends and family. In maintaining my mental well-being, I also enjoy zoning out with a good book or Netflix series.

Do you have any advice for future applicants?

No day or week will ever be typical in client services, but you need to have a vision of what you want to achieve. Ask yourself the following questions:

• What am I good at?
• What do I enjoy doing?
• What doesn’t faze me?
• Am I prepared to go the extra mile?
• Am I good at talking with and managing people?
• Am I organized?
• Can I keep my chin up even when the going gets tough?
• Do I like problem solving?
• Do I like working in a team?
• Do I like being both creative and financially minded?

If you’ve answered yes to most of these questions, if not all, then you’re well on your way to being our latest client services recruit!