Liudas, Business Controller at Johnson & Johnson MedTech Nordics in Stockholm, Sweden

Johnson & Johnson, in the Nordics, has all major public and private hospitals as clients. J&J not only sells life-saving medical devices, but the company's clinical staff also supports surgeons during complex surgeries. My role within the Finance team is ''ensuring the smooth running of the ship''. It involves financial planning and analytics, new product introduction strategies and ensuring the overall profitability of the business. 

Diving into the world of Finance after Social Sciences studies was intimidating, however, I soon realized that Sciences Po has taught me how to absorb and systematise information and how to thrive in periods of intense learning. I came into the role as part of J&J's global Finance Leadership Development Program, and half a year in I was already up to speed with Finance and Accounting fundamentals. Master's courses in R and data analytics were also a great help when starting this career.

The most fascinating part of the job in the MedTech industry is the direct impacts that you can see in people's lives. My close friend had an undiagnosed heart arrhythmia, and during an emergency procedure a few years ago, his life was saved. The procedure was done with a newly introduced treatment technology, and I am now responsible for that technology franchise's operations in the Nordics. 

The third-semester exchange at the Stockholm School of Economics and concurrent work at a sustainability startup shaped my decision to begin my career in Nordics. This experience also solidified my decision to work in the Private sector, instead of the Public one. 

Do not hesitate to approach people (online or in person) with your CV, telling them a bit about yourself, your focus areas and the fact that you are looking for work. Most managers do not find it annoying, it is actually the opposite! Managers have a strong interest in having smart and motivated people in their teams. It makes their work much easier and less stressful. Thus, by telling them about yourself, and potentially securing yourself a position, you are actually doing them a favor!