Bernd’s Internal Mobility Experience

• How did you transition from a Life Science Consultant to a Business Development Manager?

  My journey at QbD Group started as a Life Science Consultant in the Qualification & Validation team, where I worked on validation projects at client sites. Over three years, I was involved in projects at Biocartis and Pfizer, focusing on validating new products. While I gained valuable technical expertise, I realized over time that I wanted to take my career in a different direction, one that leveraged my ability to connect with people and build relationships.

  An internal move had always been part of my five-year plan. By my third year as a consultant, I had a better understanding of my strengths, weaknesses, and long-term ambitions. When my second project ended, I had an open conversation with the HR Business Partner about potential sales opportunities. Initially, there were no vacancies, but thanks to QbD Group's rapid growth, an opportunity emerged sooner than expected. That’s when I applied and made the transition to my current role as a Business Development Manager.
  

• What does your role as a Business Development Manager entail, and how does it compare to your previous role?

  In my current role, I help in vitro diagnostic (IVD) companies enter the EU market by guiding them through the process of gathering sufficient clinical evidence for IVDR submissions. Compared to my previous role, the shift has been significant.

  Instead of working for a client on-site, I now work directly for QbD Group, focusing on client communication and business development. There’s a strong international dimension to my job, which brings new challenges and cultural differences. While my background as a consultant gives me valuable industry insights, the nature of my work has changed entirely, it’s more strategic and commercially focused now.

• Can you describe the process of your internal transition?

  The transition was both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. The key step was realizing that I wanted to move into a sales role, getting out of my comfort zone and taking action. As they say, “You are the driver of your own career.” Once I knew what I wanted, QbD Group provided the right environment to make it happen.

  Here’s how the process unfolded:

  Step 1: define your career goals - understand what you want to achieve and identify a career path.

  Step 2: Take action - start the conversation with your HR Business Partner and express your ambitions.

  Step 3: Be patient - opportunities may not be available immediately, but in a fast-growing company like QbD Group, new roles are always emerging.

  Step 4: Apply when the right opportunity arises - internal vacancies are often published first, giving you an advantage.

  Step 5: Ensure a smooth transition - once I secured the role, we coordinated with my client to manage my handover and onboarding in the new position.

  The whole process led to a great outcome for me. What stood out the most was that, at QbD Group, you can evolve within the company without having to start over. If you’re proactive and clear about your goals, the opportunities will come.

• What do you enjoy most about your new role?

  What I enjoy most is feeling more connected to QbD Group as a company. I now work closely with colleagues at HQ, which gives me a deeper sense of involvement. I also love that I get to use my strengths, being open, approachable, and vocal to build relationships with customers. 

  The international aspect of my job is particularly exciting, as it introduces me to different cultures and ways of working, even though it comes with challenges. Lastly, the increased responsibilities make the work fulfilling. Of course, with more responsibility comes more pressure, but I see that as a positive challenge that helps me grow.

• What advice would you give to colleagues considering an internal move?

  If you're thinking about taking on a new challenge within QbD Group, my advice would be to speak up and make your ambitions known. QbD Group can only support your growth if you communicate your career goals. Also, be patient - the right opportunity might not be available immediately, but things move quickly in a fast-growing company like QbD Group. Finally, be clear about what you want. The more you understand your own aspirations, the easier it will be to recognize the right opportunity when it comes along.

• What are the benefits of an internal career move at QbD Group?

  The biggest advantage is being able to switch to a new role while staying at a company that already feels like home. You don’t have to start over, you already know the culture, the people, and the way things work, which makes the transition smoother.

• How do you see your future at QbD Group after this internal change?

  The changes in my career over the past 1.5 years have been significant, and by the end of this year, I hope to be exactly where I aimed to be. There are still big steps to take, but I’m confident in my ability to grow into a key member of the Business Development team.

  Looking ahead, my long-term goal is to take on a leadership role within QbD Group’s Business Development team. I want to contribute to the company’s growth and help expand our services so that we can create even more opportunities for new talent.