Leonardo Carvalho

What is it like when your job gets tough?

That is just the reality of the workplace, and life being quite honest. Being able to focus on what makes a difference at the end of the day and also to balance work demands and personal life is key! When you get in touch with amazing successful people, you will see that they inspire colleagues and their own families and friends. You will always have problems to solve, be professional, keep your eyes on the prize and be happy regardless! Its the best advice I received, and it works! :)

What is the most useful piece of career advice you got as a student, and who gave it to you?

I am an industrial engineer. While I was in college I got amazing advice from several different teachers, but definitely the most useful one was the simpler one, "Be honest, be humble, work hard.". Being honest with yourself was the most difficult part. It involves a lot of self knowledge and discovery and it is impossible to be a good leader, without knowing yourself first.

In layperson terms, what do you actually do at work?

I generate financial and operational advantage for Pfizer by supporting the development of new global business capabilities negotiating contracts, frameworks and commercial conditions.

How did you pick your career? Did you know all along?

I was always passionate about improvement, how to understand a situation and make it better and faster. It was natural to me to choose industrial engineering but wasn't an easy choice, I also considered Economics, Business Management and Computer Engineering. What made the decision easier was to talk and get inputs from professionals on the market. Having the opportunity to understand their routines, aspirations and perspectives regarding the market definitely supported me to make a decision without pain.

When you were a student, did you do anything outside of school to build skills or get knowledge that has helped your career?

In general school and college support you with the knowledge component, which is the foundation for everything else. However skills are mostly developed in other activities. I was always involved in school committees because I wanted to developed planning and social skills. Started to work on sales when I was 12 year old to lose my shyness and learn how to make cold contact effectively. I also volunteered all my life in different NGOs, going from education, to health and social support. My recommendation ? Do stuff ! Don't be afraid, don't say no. Everything you do make you better, you can always learn something from other people regardless of age, origin, job or whatever else you can include to try to classify people. Life always has something to teach us and put in your path different teachers to support you learn something new every single day.

What is the one piece of career advice you wish someone gave you when you were younger?

Don't keep yourself within you. Do your best and make sure to sell what you do. And please make sure not to mistake it with overselling! Be consistent, be open to engage with people, be humble to learn and I am sure you will be able to progress and get to were you want to be (wherever this place is)!