Jayati is a Senior Advisory Consultant in the Business Risk practice of Deloitte & Touche LLP. She has close to 7 years of experience in the field of strategic global drug development within the Life Science industry with key expertise in regulatory/clinical affairs for rare disease and pediatric product development. Jayati is the current President of the Network of South Asian Professionals of Boston and is the Co-Chair of the Massachusetts Biotechnology Council’s Legal & Regulatory Working Group. She is a graduate of the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
Jayati is also the president of NetSAP Boston. She shared some insights about a career in the life science industry and talked to Lokvani about her plans for NetSAP in the upcoming year.
How did you develop an interest in the life science industry?
Both my parents practiced medicine and growing up I would spend time after school in their offices. When sales representatives from various pharmaceutical companies visited to present a new drug on the market, I would attend and wished one day I would be the CEO of a top life science company. As silly as it may sound, I would even take the empty drug cartons and present to an audience of fake doctors. I was only 4 years old then!
After high school, I went to the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. I knew from the start that I wanted to pursue an industry path rather than going to retail. After having the opportunity to work with FDA, I joined the industry in the field of regulatory/clinical affairs. I am very passionate about this industry, as it has and continuously brings innovative products to the market to treat rarest of the diseases.
What advice do you have for youngsters who may consider a career in life science industry?
The life science industry is one of the most thriving industries. Over the past decade we have seen a constant growth in this industry. Many people are mistaken that this career path is only for people with a scientific backgrounds however, this industry needs folks from various educational backgrounds (i.e. IT, finance, engineers, etc.). I would recommend for youngsters who are considering a career path in this industry to speak with people who are already in this industry and perhaps seek an internship opportunity to further learn about various available paths within the life science sector.
Do you have mentors in your life?
Absolutely! I have many mentors in my life who have guided me not only in my professional life but also personal. At different stages in your career, having different mentors is very critical to bring new perspectives. My mentors include leaders from the life science industry, consulting, as well as my close friends and of course my parents. I truly believe that my mentors are my backbone and also my support system.
What does networking mean to you?
It’s all about quality vs. quantity when it comes to networking. My rule of thumb is that I should be able to pick up my phone and call this person in my network without any hesitation. Also, it’s important to continuously build this relationship; I suggest scheduling quarterly catch-up lunch or dinner with your contact.
Could you tell us a little about the mission of NetSAP?
The Network of South Asian Professionals of Boston (NetSAP Boston) (www.netsapboston.org) is a chapter of the NetIP America. NetSAP’s mission is to serve as the unequivocal voice for the South Asian diaspora in Boston by developing and engaging a cohesive network of professionals to benefit the community. The backbone of the NetSAP community consists of not only professionals, but also leaders in business, politics, and civic life. We interact closely with the industry leaders and other South Asian organizations in furtherance of our goals. We will continue to interact closely with many of the acquaintances we make through our experiences within the NetSAP Boston organization. NetSAP Boston believes that our members are undeniably our greatest resource. We strive ardently to work with everyone in our local communities to provide a single platform for progressive professionals to target the many opportunities and challenges that come our way. The NetSAP Boston board members are comprised of very talented and passionate professionals pulled from various educational and professional backgrounds from engineers, doctors, advisory consultants to law students.
What new initiatives are you planning for NetSAP in the new year?
The NetSAP Boston board will be planning another exciting year for our professionals. A sneak peek of these events includes:
- Professional Development: Business Case Study Competition, Women in Leadership Forum, Effective Communication, The MBA Tour
- Political Awareness: Visit to the State House, Meet and Great Local State Reps, Learn About Healthcare Reform
- Social: Cocktails and Conversations, Dinner Circle & Wine and Cheese Night, Summer Annual Picnic, Winter Ski Trip and Snowmobiling, Organic Farming, Summertime to Explore the Islands
- Cultural: MFA Tour, Holiday Concerts at Boston Symphony Orchestra, Book Clubs, Charity Run
What value does a membership to NetSAP bring?
NetSAP Boston has expanded as an organization throughout the course of 2013, both in terms of the number of members we have and in terms of the opportunities that we can provide them with. As NetSAP Boston continues to provide professional development seminars and talks, give back to the Greater Boston community, and provide opportunities for our members to expand their professional network during fun activities or evenings in the city, we look forward to interacting with the South Asian professional diaspora in Boston and nurturing our community.
Any special message to our readers?
Yes sure. My special message to the readers is to take initiatives in your personal and professional lives. This is the tough step in the process but once taken everything will just fall in place on its own. In addition, take pride and absolute joy at everything you do!
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