How to Stand Out in Pharma Job Applications:
Insider Perspectives from Teva
Pharmaceutical companies are no longer hiring solely for academic credentials and scientific expertise. While these are still important, they’re just the starting point for a stand-out application.
As specialization deepens and cross-functional collaboration becomes the norm, employers are increasingly seeking candidates who challenge assumptions, thrive in teams, and bring clarity to why their work matters. Agility, curiosity, and purpose-driven thinking now sit alongside scientific expertise as key indicators of value.
Anirban Sadhu, VP, International Markets, Regulatory Affairs
At Teva, this shift is closely aligned with our Pivot to Growth strategy, a transformation Dr. Anirban Sadhu, VP of Global Regulatory Affairs – International Markets, calls “a journey from good to great.” As we expand into biologics and early-stage innovation, we need talent that combines scientific depth with cross-functional, strategic thinking.
"This is not more of the same,” says Dr. Sadhu. “It’s not incremental, it’s transformational... and that demands a new kind of talent.”
Deesa Ghedia, Global Sourcing Talent Lead
Deesa Ghedia, Associate Director of Global Sourcing Talent, explains how this shift shapes our hiring:
“We’re hiring commercial and strategic thinkers to drive growth, scientific experts to lead innovation, strong operators to maintain what already works, and forward-looking leaders to help us align our business model with our ambitions.”
This evolution also reflects broader changes across the pharmaceutical industry, from digital health and advanced manufacturing to patient advocacy and AI. In this landscape, skill-based hiring and continuous learning are front and center.
“We’re looking beyond job titles,” she adds. “We want candidates who demonstrate how they’ve upskilled, adapted, and contributed in ways that reflect where the industry is going, not just where it’s been.”
So, what sets applicants apart?
“It’s how clearly they can highlight their achievements, use industry-relevant terminology, and show the soft skills that make them a great team fit. Things like leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration,” she says.
Standing out isn’t just about what you’ve done. It’s about how you think, how you work, and the value you bring.
What Make an Application Stand Out at Teva
Generic applications don’t land interviews. Use the job description to guide your language and show how your experience connects to Teva’s purpose.
“One of the common mistakes I see in pharma applications is that candidates often make a generic application... It’s absolutely critical that you're using the right terminology, explaining your skill sets relevant to the job description,”
says Deesa.
Deesa Ghedia - 5 common mistakes in Pharma applications
How to Stand Out as a Pharma Applicant
Don’t just list responsibilities, highlight measurable outcomes.
What changed because of your work?
“Candidates often don’t quantify their achievements,” says Deesa. “They should really highlight some of the statistics,
some of the percentages that they have helped deliver.”
Make your CV concise, relevant, and easy to scan.
“You may have written a five-page CV… but is it all relevant? Does it grab the reader’s attention?” says Dr. Sadhu.
A visual CV with a clear “hook” can leave a lasting impression. “You can understand what the person is about with just a quick look. It creates curiosity,” he adds. “I include a photo of a book I wrote. It consistently starts conversations.”
Demonstrate how you align with Teva’s values and culture. That could mean referencing our purpose, or sharing a meaningful interest or hobby. “It tells me you’re more than your CV,” says Dr. Sadhu. “But only if it’s authentic. I’ve interviewed people who couldn’t explain the hobbies they listed, and that works against them.”
Interviewing at Teva: More Than a Q&A
Once you’re in the room, virtually or otherwise, it’s less about your credentials and more about how you think, engage, and connect.
“That same interview I mentioned earlier, the one that’s stayed with me,” says Deesa, “stood out because it felt like
a conversation, not an interview. The candidate had done their research, asked thoughtful questions, and clearly understood what we were looking for. It just resonated.”
Use STAR or other techniques to prepare, but avoid sounding rehearsed.
“When a person is off guard and off script, that is when you find out who they really are,” says Dr. Sadhu.
“Otherwise, they've gone through the motions and prepared for all the questions.”
Highlight how you’ve adapted to change, worked cross-functionally, and solved real problems.
“A candidate that can demonstrate the ability to be flexible and agile,” says Deesa, “shows the interviewer that,
in an ever-changing industry, they can evolve and change as challenges change.”
Bring a story, idea, or perspective only you can offer.
“Often people say, ‘Well, I’m just a normal person. There’s nothing interesting in my life,’” Dr. Sadhu reflects.
“But believe me, everybody’s got something interesting, you just have to bring it out properly.”
Final Advice: It’s More Than a Job. It’s a Journey
“A CV only gets you to the interview,” says Dr. Sadhu. “After that, it’s about who you are, and once you’ve joined,
it’s about what you contribute each day.”
“If you’re applying for a role at Teva for the first time,” adds Deesa, “it’s a strategic move for your career.
Prepare your application, tailor it to our goals, and don’t forget to be your authentic self.”
Whether you're at the start of your career or exploring something new, the strongest candidates lead with curiosity,
clarity, and a mindset of continuous growth.
Key Takeaways
- Scientific knowledge isn’t enough. Employers seek strategic, adaptable thinkers.
- Tailor your application. Reflect Teva’s purpose and language.
- Show results. Use numbers and outcomes to demonstrate impact.
- Interviews are conversations. Be curious, agile, and genuine.
- Authenticity sets you apart. Share what only you can bring.