Anna Paci is the Head of Education and Communication at Specialist Pharmacy, which produces the medication prescribed for bioidentical hormones and the required compounded medication.
Her background in Biomedical Science and Phytotherapy equips her to create training and educational materials, such as courses and webinars, peer group events and online learning platforms. She provides guidance and support from pre-enrolment onto courses through to clinical consultations and has seen over 300 medical professionals come through the training programme.
Anna has worked in various roles such as Practice Manager, Key Account Manager and Compounding Technician, giving her a 360-degree view of the businesses. Anna is proud to work for such a unique, innovative and forward-thinking business where her skills and experience can be utilised and where she can create a direct impact on future growth and expansion. Knowing the work she does contributes to the improved quality of life of thousands of men and women suffering from hormonal imbalances, is a huge motivator
Tell us a bit about yourself, background and your current role
I’m Anna, Head of Education and Communications at both the Marion Gluck Training Academy and Specialist Pharmacy, two sister companies set up by Dr Gluck. Part of my job role involves creating educational materials for our delegates and prescribers, be that webinars, classroom courses or educational resources. We started out specialising in bioidentical hormone restoration therapy (BHRT) and have expanded into treatment areas such as pain management, trichology, dermatology and more recently, veterinary medicine. Offering my support and guidance to myriad prescribers from gynaecologists to dermatologists, we have one mutual objective; to improve the lives of patients by providing them with access to personalised medication. My role is extremely rewarding; the patient testimonials we receive speak for themselves.
Did you ever sit down and plan your career?
Not at all! I enjoyed so many different subjects at school and found it difficult to decide which educational direction to take. I figured science was a good choice, however found my initial degree in Biomedical Science wasn’t what I was expecting, no creative essays, just calculations and equations after a lab session. I eventually went back to university to study Phytotherapy. Preventative medicine has always intrigued me and I’ve always seen this as the way forward, so it’s great to see that it’s becoming so mainstream now.
Upon graduating, I was looking for a summer job and came across a temporary role working with Dr Marion Gluck, who had just moved to London and started up her BHRT practice. I thought it sounded interesting, and fast-forward 15 years, that has become my career! I’ve been fortunate enough to be offered a variety of roles within the three business, from the clinic, to the pharmacy and the academy, so have a well-rounded knowledge of how it all operates.
What do you think are some of the challenges women face working in the pharmaceutical industry? How have you overcome these obstacles in your own career?
I don’t feel I’ve faced any obstacles. I was fortunate enough to have a very supportive boss who champions women’s rights and gave me opportunities to progress within the business. I think there are so many female role models in science that the proof is there that we can reach any goals we’d like.
What top tips would you give to an individual who is trying to excel in their career in science?
Network with others in your field. Living in a digital age, we have the fortune of being able to connect with others worldwide, on various different platforms. Attend seminars, never stop learning! Be passionate about the area you are working in. Without passion, you’ll never achieve what you set out to do. Seek out mentors; they’ve made the mistakes so you don’t have to. Don’t be shy about asking others to share their insights and guidance; most people love giving advice.
What led you to wanting to work in science?
Science is fascinating. How can we not want to find out how things work, be it the human body or elements and compounds?! It’s a constantly evolving and exciting field to work in.
Do you believe there are still barriers for success for women working in tech, if so, how can these barriers be overcome?
I believe there is so much opportunity in the UK and women are incredibly fortunate to have access to education, something which many women around the world are denied. There are challenges, yes, but not gender specific. I can honestly say that I’ve never felt held back in any area of my life through being female.
