A new month brings a new series of our anniversary employee stories. In the second month of this series, we’re kicking things off with Sergii, our Project Manager from Ukraine.
When did you join GCT and how long have you been with the company?
I’ve joined GCT in April 2008. Almost 18 years I am pleased to be a part of the GCT family.
Which office are you based in?
I am based in Kyiv, Ukraine office.
Could you tell us more about your role and your professional background?
My background is medical doctor specifically at anesthesiology and reanimatology. As of today, my role is Project Manager.
Was the job what you expected when you first joined? Did anything surprise you?
When I was joining clinical trials industry I did not expect anything particular because of the very basic awareness of the field itself. At the same time I was not surprised rather then excited with each new challenge giving a chance of constant professional growth.
What’s changed at the company since you’ve joined?
I think there were just 3-4 offices at the moment I’ve joined the company. Today GCT is much larger – 14 offices worldwide, providing services in several countries of the US, Europe and India.
What aspects of GCT’s corporate culture are the most important to you?
What distinguishes GCT corporate culture from the most of the large companies is a fast and prompt communication between all employees.
Can you share a particularly memorable moment from your time at GCT?
Obviously before the COVID19 we had a lot of investigator meetings in different countries. It was fantastic time to meet the sponsors, vendors and investigators in person. Some of the great business relationship we have built back there works since then till now.
What have you learned during your time at GCT?
I my professional skills have improved a lot, including negotiation, target orientation, team work etc. Also, I find interesting for myself to create new electronic tools for tracking, calculation, finance etc., sharing it with colleagues.
In your view, how does GCT make a meaningful impact on people’s lives? What contribution do you find most significant?
Simple example: my mother, father, any people close to me eventually will need to buy a drug in the future. Why would I miss to help them just doing my job properly. We can help people to receive efficient, safe and reasonably affordable medicine. I believe it is responsibility of every person taking part in clinical trials.
What are some of your favorite activities outside of work?
I love to practice my home barista skills. Also I am a fan of hi fidelity sound equipment, outside my work I am helping my friends with professional installation just for fun.
How would you describe GCT ten years from now?
I feel that GCT evolves in structure, management, harmonization of the activities. I think GCT will become even more recognized among sponsors, vendors, colleagues and local regulatory authorities.
What does GCT’s 25th anniversary mean to you personally?
25th anniversary of GCT for me is the first of all emotional proudness for having a chance to be a part of stable, continuously growing, professionally improving company. Being 25 years on the market means for me that we are doing things right.
What do you think has enabled GCT to remain successful for 25 years?
In my humble opinion GCT remains successful for 25 years thanks to the model of management inside the company. Our CEO Dr. Selivra has built a good and strong partnership with the country managers. Having everything under control our upper management allows some effective space for each country director to manage their offices based on specifics of local legislation, internal office communication etc. Besides that, of course we would not get far without tremendous efforts of the Business Development finding a client, providing a job for us all.
If you could describe GCT’s journey over the past 25 years in one word, what would it be — and why?
Take off. Why? I like flights.
What is something special about the people you work with at GCT?
In GCT I always feel like in same boat with all other employees. Performing a various tasks we are doing one job.
Which GCT value resonates most with you, and how do you see it reflected in everyday work?
It’s how GCT treats a client. It is so individual, flexible, friendly and at the same time quality, safety and goal-based approach.
What’s the biggest lesson your time at GCT has taught you about work — or about yourself?
GCT has taught me to always consider the reasonable time for the answer even if the request is urgent.
If you could relive one day at GCT, which one would it be and why?
I remember 2012 UEFA European Football Championship. Poland and Ukraine were the hosts. Dr. Selivra, GCT CEO came to Ukraine not only to see how would Spain beat Italy in the finals at the Olympic Stadium. Eugene came to Ukrainian office to meet with Kyiv based employees. We have discussed some business and had fantastic dinner later on.