Marivi V. Mendizabal

Marivi V. Mendizabal is Head of Global Discovery, GE Healthcare, Medical Diagnostics, Amersham. In this interview she shares her experience working for GE.

What is your current role?

I work in Research and Development as Head of Discovery and Chief Scientific Officer for Medical Diagnostics Business of GE Healthcare

How did you start your working life?

I started as a Post-Doctoral fellow in academic Research. After few years in academia I made the transition to commercial scientific/Research roles, in therapeutic Pharmaceutical company before I moved to Diagnostic Imaging

What has been the journey to that role in terms of other career milestones?

From scientific roles, my career advance through project and line management roles, a key milestone was getting my first leadership position as Head of Research 8 years ago from which my leadership skills develop and mature leading to a series of expanded roles of opportunities

When did you decide you wanted to take this career route?

Half way through my degree I realised that a career in Science & Research was my preferred career option, initially my focus & interest was to pursue an academic career and the commercial interest came later, once in a commercial environment, my ability to lead in the scientific environment become more apparent

What do you most enjoy about your job?

I am really passionate about the purpose of my job, seeking new diagnostics, resolving some key questions in management of Disease such as cancer and Neuro-degeneration. I truly enjoy the leadership aspects of my job as well. I have the pleasure to be part of a great team with some excellent people.

Have you had an important mentor along the way?

Yes, several. At different stages I have used mentors to develop certain skills and the most valuable ones that I continued to worked-on, have been to develop tools to strengthen self-believe and confidence to take the necessary risks a throughout my career I continue to encounter some great people from whom I continue to learn

How has GE helped you progress in your career?

GE has provided me with challenging opportunities to learn and continuously strive for excellence.

What tips and advice would you give to young women starting out on their career today?

It depends on the situation but in general I would say focus on the important topics and avoid getting too distracted by items that add no value. Secondly take your time, learn and persevere. Finally use any opportunity you get to learn, build your self–believe & take your chances

Where do you see yourself in 5 years’ time?

Very difficult question to me to answer, I am not really sure.  I know what I want to achieve in life. I see myself as a technology leader inspiring and developing the next generation of technology leaders

In your words, why do you think GE has been named one of the Times Top 50 employers for women?

GE is a very fair or meritocratic company and support performance, achievement and career development in a gender, nationality independent manner, in such environment of fairness and women can excel and feel supported allowing equal career opportunities for females