Read the Conversation
EF: Considering Poland's recent transformations, how do you perceive the challenges and opportunities in 2024?
CC: Poland stands poised for remarkable growth across various sectors, notably in healthcare. However, seizing this opportunity hinges on expedited progress under the new government's leadership, especially in healthcare. Clarity regarding the significance of this area of investments is imperative, while the importance of healthcare investments cannot be overstated. In an internal survey we had in GSK of around 2,500 employees, we found that healthcare is important to Polish people. However, the existing framework needs to adapt for adequate support.
The current 827 days from drug registration to reimbursement listing is untenable for improving healthcare outcomes. Poland lags significantly behind its EU counterparts, with Germany and Austria boasting much shorter timelines of 120 and 300 days, respectively. Such delays are particularly egregious in critical areas like oncology and infectious diseases, prompting patients to seek treatment abroad. We need to encourage dialogues with institutions to underscore the necessity of investment in innovation while addressing these challenges.
EF: Could you provide further details about your presence in Poland and explain the strategic significance of your operations there?
CC: For 45 years, we have been increasing our commitment to Poland. Our substantial investments have been instrumental in bolstering the local economy. Poland is a strategic location for key global functions such as technology, HR, procurement, and finance, with our international R&D team focused primarily on clinical operations, witnessing a threefold expansion in the past two years from 200 to 600 professionals. Our commitment to Poland is further demonstrated through the 52 ongoing clinical trial projects, encompassing innovative products across various fields, such as infectious diseases, oncology, and specialty areas like HIV.
This shift towards prioritizing knowledge capabilities marks a strategic evolution, positioning Poland as the second global hub for GSK's R&D activities. Additionally, we have a multi-market warehouse near Poznan, in Gądki, a strategic distribution center for pharmaceuticals sourced from worldwide manufacturing sites. With similar hubs in Italy and France, this move not only streamlines our supply chain but also enhances our ability to cater to the demands of the Polish market and Eastern European and Nordic regions. This investment underscores Poland's growing importance within GSK's global operations, adding substantial value to local engagement efforts.
EF: In your new role as a country manager, can you elaborate on the leadership style you are adopting to pursue your objectives and missions?
CG: My career is driven by a profound appreciation for people and a passion for their development. Beyond metrics, true success lies in witnessing individuals I've worked with ascend to senior roles and find fulfillment. My leadership ethos centers on openness, transparency, and fostering strong connections throughout the team, recognizing that collective effort drives our results.
I envision Poland as a major player on the global stage, driven by a vibrant culture of development and talent attraction. I aim to cultivate a pipeline of skilled professionals, nurturing talent to the extent that a Polish General Manager becomes a reality—a testament to our success. I instill a growth mindset within my team, urging them to continually seek improvement and seize new opportunities.
As a patient managing hypertension, my connection to healthcare imbues my work with purpose. Despite challenges, I maintain a positive outlook, viewing obstacles as opportunities for growth. In my meetings, I always make sure there is an -additional chair to represent the patients.
EF: What skills do you seek when recruiting talent, and what strategies do you employ to retain that talent?
CC: We're seeking individuals who thrive in challenging environments and are eager to contribute to our evolving portfolio. GSK Poland has shifted its focus towards innovation, particularly in oncology, vaccines, specialty products, and HIV-related items—a unique opportunity for talented professionals to work on cutting-edge products rarely found elsewhere.
Our message emphasizes GSK's transformative journey, empowering employees to shape the company's future. Retaining talent is paramount and achieved through a robust talent development plan spanning all levels. This plan goes beyond standardized processes, with clear objectives for managers to cultivate a pool of individuals ready to contribute immediately. We monitor and support the evolution of employees' capabilities, offering opportunities for global challenges.
While competitive compensation is important, we focus on structured and clear development paths for long-term satisfaction. Personal and professional growth opportunities are central, ensuring every team member, including leadership, understands their development areas and potential opportunities for advancement.
EF: Could you provide insights into the portfolio's performance, particularly in Poland?
CC: We're actively reshaping our portfolio, focusing on prevention and vaccination, critical areas often overlooked in the country's healthcare landscape. We firmly believe in prevention—an investment of one euro can yield savings of three euros by curbing diseases and associated costs. Our goal is to advocate for increased investment in prevention through dialogues with institutions.
Expanding vaccination opportunities is a key priority. Last year, we introduced a vaccine for shingles in adults, broadening preventive measures beyond childhood. Additionally, in oncology, we're addressing challenges such as high treatment costs by exploring risk-sharing agreements and streamlined drug plans for timely access. Collaborating with patients, expert associations, and healthcare stakeholders is paramount. Tailored approaches, like specialized asthma management teams and efficient local testing in oncology, are essential for prompt treatment.
Our ongoing dialogue aims to secure support and funding and evolve healthcare systems to accommodate innovative products effectively. While this presents a significant challenge, it's a crucial step toward ensuring groundbreaking treatments' availability and rapid deployment.
EF: Could you share insights into initiatives that can be considered to enhance awareness, education, and prevention?
CC: The company is committed to vaccination and conducts disease awareness campaigns. Efforts include educating those affected by shingles and fostering dialogue with healthcare institutions and professionals, including collaborations with associations and physicians.
Another critical focus is improving treatment for severe asthma patients. Collaborating with respiratory associations, the company compiles real data into comprehensive reports, highlighting treatment gaps and system challenges. Similar oncology initiatives demonstrate the company's commitment to patient well-being.
Acknowledging the importance of alliances, the company actively engages with patient associations and utilizes social media to connect patients with healthcare providers. While dedicated to its objectives, it emphasizes the need for partnerships with institutions for more impactful collaboration, recognizing that these goals cannot be achieved alone.
EF: As you are approaching the milestone of two years in Poland and 20 years with the company, what specific achievements and milestones of your tenure are you most proud of?
CC: I've transitioned from valuing performance metrics to finding fulfillment in the impact on people's lives. Working across diverse markets, I've witnessed colleagues ascending to significant roles outside our shared companies.
My time in this country has reinforced the importance of human connection. Witnessing former colleagues' progress, some now in global positions, brings immense satisfaction. I emphasize the value of helping others, not solely for financial gain but for personal fulfillment.
In leadership and life, prioritizing people is paramount. Upholding fairness, honesty, and transparency, even in adversity, has guided my journey. This philosophy has enriched my career, enabling me to contribute to patient well-being, support others' growth, and continually learn from diverse experiences
