On Friday, April 16, 2021, MBS executive coach Abbe Rosenthal, MA, PCC, hosted a virtual alumni panel featuring three graduates from MBS’s Personal Care Science (PCS) program:
- Mallory Bloom MBS’17 Marketing Manager, Core Therapeutics at http://www.zoetis.com/
- Stephen Carter MBS’15, Director, Home & Personal Care at Jarchem Industries, Inc.
- Deanna Smith MBS’19, Rotational Scientist, Global Product & Process Development, Johnson & Johnson
From left – Mallory Bloom MBS’17, Stephen Carter MBS’15, and Deanna Smith MBS’19
Rosenthal dove right in and asked the panelists how they thought current MBS students could leverage their graduate education to further an industry career. One answer was to choose electives as a way to enhance existing and build new skill sets—among those recommended were Fundamentals of Regulatory Affairs and Chemistry of Food and Natural Products, both of which are applicable to the PCS field of work.
Other questions probed the students’ professional interest in the marketing arm of the PCS business. The panelists described the three most important practices when pursuing a marketing career in a PCS-related industry: (1) networking whenever possible (2) communicating effectively (oral and in writing), and (3) staying updated with about PCS trends.
Additional Insights and Takeaways:
- Network! Network! Network: All the panelists emphasized its importance as a means to stay up to date with industry trends. It’s also a good way to build relationships that might lead to a career opportunity.
- Join a professional society: The panelists especially recommended the New York Society of Cosmetic Chemists (NYSCC). This organization has an excellent reputation and provides ample opportunities to network with industry professionals.
- Analytics and sustainability: As all industries become more data-driven and as consumer demand for sustainable products continues to grow, so does the need for employees to fill relevant positions. These two sectors are showing the most expansion.
- Keep your eye on the prize: Stay persistent and focused on your end goal.
- Communication is key: Communication is of utmost importance. Learning effective communication can take you places.
The event was a success, and we thank Abbe for hosting and for our three alumni panelists members for taking time to share their industry knowledge and give advice. Students were engaged and inspired—as well as reminded to pay it forward to other MBS students once we have graduated and earned our degrees.