Meet Sofía Piñero, Project Specialist II at Parexel Argentina

What does a day in the life of your role look like?

A day in the life of a Project Specialist at Parexel is dynamic and varied, with no two days being exactly alike. Our role is crucial in supporting Project Leaders and Functional Leads to ensure smooth project execution. Here's a glimpse into our typical responsibilities:

• Review and track project timelines, milestones, and deliverables with a keen eye for quality
• Maintain and update project documentation, ensuring accuracy and compliance
• Support budget tracking and financial reporting; assist with invoicing and expense management
• Schedule and coordinate internal team meetings and external client calls; prepare and distribute meeting minutes and action items.

What skills are needed to be successful within your team?

To be successful in our team as a Project Specialist, key skills include:

• Strong organizational abilities
• Keen attention to detail
• Effective multitasking and prioritization
• Clear communication
• Adaptability to change
• Problem-solving aptitude

These skills help us manage complex projects efficiently, maintain quality, and ultimately contribute to Parexel's values.

If you could give a behind-the-scenes preview of your role to potential teammates, what would you share?

The role can be challenging, but it's also rewarding. The skills you develop here are highly valuable, and there's a supportive team culture to help you succeed. If you enjoy a dynamic environment, problem-solving, and making a meaningful impact, this role could be an excellent fit for you.

What aspect of your role ignites your passion and keeps you motivated?

As a Project Specialist, one of the most rewarding aspects of my job is the opportunity to collaborate with diverse, global teams. What truly drives my passion is how our collective efforts contribute to Parexel's core value of 'Patients First.' We all share a common goal: to advance clinical research that ultimately benefits patients worldwide.

How do you value Parexel keeping the patient at the heart of everything we do?

Parexel's commitment to keeping the patient at the heart of everything we do is a guiding principle that profoundly impacts our daily work. This patient-centric approach adds depth and meaning to my role, knowing that even my day-to-day tasks contribute to improving patients' lives.

How do you work "With Heart" and what does it mean to you?

Working 'With Heart' at Parexel means approaching my role with genuine passion and dedication. To me, it involves commitment to excellence, empathy, collaboration, resilience, and continuous improvement. By working 'With Heart,' I aim to contribute meaningfully to Parexel's goals and the broader aim of improving global health.

How do you see our core value "Respect" in action within the company and your team?

In my team, I see respect exemplified through open dialogue, mutual support, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving. We value each member's unique skills and perspectives, creating an environment where everyone feels respected and empowered to contribute their best work.

How do you and your team take quality seriously?

We meticulously handle core documents, apply rigorous quality checks to all client-facing reports, participate in ongoing training to stay updated on the latest quality standards, and share knowledge within the team to ensure everyone is aligned on quality expectations.

How has Parexel helped you level up in your career journey?

Parexel has been instrumental in supporting my career growth:

• I was promoted after my first year, reflecting the company's recognition of hard work and potential.
• My Line Manager is consistently available and proactive in guiding my career development.
• Parexel provides well-defined career progression routes, helping me understand my next steps.

How does your team support flexibility and work-life balance?

Parexel offers several initiatives supporting work-life balance, including summer Fridays, no-meeting Fridays, and wellbeing programs. There's flexibility to work from home when needed, and my Line Manager is understanding about personal matters. We conduct monthly one-on-ones to discuss both work progress and overall wellbeing.

How do you feel empowered and accountable?

The combination of trust, support, clear expectations, and opportunities for growth creates an environment where I feel both empowered to perform at my best and accountable for delivering high-quality work. It motivates me to take initiative, be proactive in solving problems, and consistently strive for excellence in my role.

What have you experienced at Parexel but not anywhere else?

One unique aspect I've experienced at Parexel is the exceptional people and the supportive culture they create. The combination of a welcoming atmosphere, collaborative teamwork, and shared dedication to improving patients' lives creates a truly unique and motivating work environment.

What drew you into the world of Clinical Research?

While the work can be challenging at times, with complex regulations and high stakes, the potential to positively impact people's lives makes it undoubtedly worthwhile. The sense of purpose and the knowledge that our work contributes to advancing healthcare globally make the Clinical Research industry a deeply satisfying career choice.

What do you enjoy outside of work?

I find peace in spending time outdoors, whether walking or cycling. I also enjoy preparing meals for myself and my family, which serves as both a creative outlet and a way to nurture my loved ones.

What is something most people don't know about you that would surprise them?

I have a passion for urban gardening. I maintain a thriving vegetable garden and am always eager to learn about different plant species and their care.