P133: Cultivating Global Competencies Through Cross-Cultural Exchange (CCE) Programs for Pharmaceutical Professionals

Poster Presenter

Ashley Ogawa-Wong

Associate Director, Regulatory Liaison
Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
United States

Objectives

To present a case study on a CCE program as a professional development opportunity to promote a global worldview and collaboration. This program can be tailored for any profession to develop individuals into successful leaders of global teams.

Method

Two team members (individual contributor and senior leader) each from the US and Japan traveled to their counterpart’s country to participate in the CCE. The development objectives were: 1) shared learning and exchange of best practices, 2) relationship building, and 3) cultural competence.

Results

Following completion of thoughtfully designed activities, participants in the CCE program developed the following key competencies: • Technical expertise: Expanded technical knowledge and skills through shared learning and exchange of best practices. Understanding of different regulatory environments, tools, and processes were enhanced through hands on project work and knowledge exchange sessions. These highly specialized skills were better learned through an in-person interaction. • Networking and relationship building: Established a professional network across geographical regions, with colleagues both within functional area and across other functions, building a foundation for improved future collaborations and strengthened global networks. • Cultural competence: Developed empathy and an appreciation for diverse perspectives through cultural activities and informal sessions to share cultural differences and similarities. • Leadership capabilities: Developed global leadership skills through organizing workshops and discussions across diverse divisions. Additionally, participants cultivated adaptability and resilience through exposure to diverse problem-solving and decision-making approaches, resulting in improved collaboration with colleagues worldwide.

Conclusion

The CCE program provided a unique opportunity for professional development by enhancing several key competencies while also fostering a global perspective. These key competencies and the program’s objectives are applicable across various professions. Activities can be modified to address job-specific requirements and emerging challenges. In an era of rapid globalization, CCE programs position pharmaceutical professionals for success in leading global teams.