We asked Nathalie Rowell, CEO of the VirdisGroup to share with us some insights on her experiences and how she draws inspiration from the environment around her, role models she had during her careers, the best advice she received since Covid-19 hit the world, and what does the slogan “Choose to Challenge” mean to her.

The VirdisGroup provides high quality, international executive search services to life-science companies of every size; and for roles from R&D, regulatory and manufacturing to market access and commercialisation.

We become trusted advisors for our clients, and help their organisations grow through the quality and strength of their people.

We are a deliberately small and highly focused team of experienced individuals, bringing specialist insight, substantial added-value, and a track-record of successful delivery for the benefit of our clients and candidates.

Voltedge: What is your current role and how long you have held this position?

Nathalie: I am the CEO of the VirdisGroup. I have been in that position since 2007.

Voltedge: Where do you draw inspiration from?

Nathalie: I draw inspiration from the outstanding people I work with, my team, our clients and candidates.

Voltedge: During the course of your career, was there a role model or mentor that stands out for you?

Nathalie: Not really.

Voltedge: What is the best piece of advice you received since Covid-19 hit the world?

Nathalie: Keep focused.

Voltedge: Can you share with us 2 or 3 positives in your personal life that you have discovered during the pandemic?

Nathalie: 1. One can do more with less. 2. The love and support of my family, not that it was a discovery. Still, it felt good that it was there, stronger than ever.

Voltedge: In light of so much remote working and social distancing, what practices or approach have you taken to try to communicate and collaborate effectively during this time and to support employees?

Nathalie: All of us have been very proactive in using Teams, WhatsApp to keep in touch, make a conscious effort to look out for each other, be more patient and tolerant, be systematic in communicating openly, emphasising that every single one of us has a voice.

Voltedge: What does the slogan ‘Choose to Challenge’ mean to you?

Nathalie: As long as it is constructive and benevolent, I am all for it.

Voltedge: What is your favourite quote and why?  

Nathalie: Whatever it takes! It is our motto and all of us at Virdis have been living every minute, every letter of that sentence for the past 13 years.