Oncology Culture

Beginning the process for an oncology promotion currently here at AZ, but when I speak to my local oncology reps in my state, they all seem to dance around or speak negatively about the current culture. I've worked hard to get an opportunity to get into oncology for the last 15 years, and this would be a great opportunity to get into the space BUT I also love everyone I currently report to from the top down to my district manager and like what I do. Seems like that's not the case as it relates to most of the oncology division from what I'm hearing... Thoughts?

 

If you are transitioning from PC you're probably used to the culture oncology has recently shifted to. It's all about metrics. Call average, programs scheduled, resource utilization... The challenge of oncology is access. A lot of cancer centers are still zero access or minimal access due to COVID, so if you're in a territory with decent access or you are someone who is comfortable fudging numbers so your boss looks good to their boss, etc. you won't have an issue. Not sure this helps answer your question, but it's our current reality/culture

 

Like every oncologist will say, it depends. Lung has the absolute worst culture in onc. Favoritism determines everything, especially in a certain region. Leaders engaging in unethical personal behavior with each other. Pacific has run its course. Caspian is tough. The pressure on tag is relentless. GI a much better place. Better indications, leaders and culture. Same with breast. Regardless, they are all way better than PC. You need to run from that nonsense as fast as possible. If you have the chance to get out, don’t even think twice about it.

 

You will be fine! There’s different optics on any division. Be realistic & know that your success comes down to your team and manager. Wising you the best success!
Oncology in general is not an easy position- consider your patient & disease state. Know your accounts & decision makers. This post will probably get flak but remember it’s the positive mindset that makes a difference

 

Depends on who you report to. I like my direct manager but don’t care for the culture being pushed down from above them. When I was hired I was told this was a great place to be if you want to coast while attempting to dodge typical corporate BS and you can make a career out of it here due to the pipeline being so strong. Get the oncology experience and figure the rest out later…

 

Tell the truth - very few oncologists will see a pharma rep - most of your day will be at the gym, mall, Starbucks, and Jimmy Johns .

 

Yes you will eat most moist processed meats at subway-with chips and cold soda. Sit in warm car and smoke menthols

 

It’s oncology, Take the position if offered. There’s a reason people in the industry want to get into oncology and it’s not because “you don’t work” it’s because there is stability, the pay is better, and you (if you do your job) have meaningful conversation outside of what insurance offices see, samples, etc…

that being said, the culture of AZ oncology is currently “metrics metrics metrics”
Numbers are down nationally in certain drug markets, so the powers that be are focused on how to make themselves look better by presenting certain non performance numbers to the people at the top. It’s pharma, and not specific to AstraZeneca. Just come in and do your job and get the experience. Where it takes you is up to you for the most part (and your direct leadership). Play the game, hit the call numbers they demand you to hit, and drive business. No manager will bother you if you do those things. Good luck

 

I’d add, focus on gaining account knowledge and build what relationships you can as fast as possible. Doesn’t necessarily have to be with the physicians though that’s preferred obviously. Those things are what recruiters will ask about and what other oncology companies pay for. In 6 months you’ll have better paying opportunities, and I mean significantly better, start to come your way. Let them train you then take your skills to a better place.

 

Yeeeep. AZ doesn’t compete financially

 

You may make more money at syneos on a contract, don’t come to az it’s moving towards primary care in oncology, you would be better off at BMS or merck to get into oncology. New AZ oncology leadership is terrible.

 

Like everyone has said, It depends on your manager. I have a good manager that gets it. My manager also looks out for us and that makes it worth staying for me. I know others that have managers that like busy work and that can be draining.

 

This sounds like the mantra for our MSL teams. We can’t keep MSLs in our area. They keep changing their role and they leave us for more customer facing opportunities and more $$. What happened to supporting field efforts with HCPS? They used to be a great resource to help HCPS with deeper clinical needs than we can address as PSSs, but AZ changed them from PC to Specialty only, then to decision makers in hospitals. Our competitors utilize their MSLS in offices and to conduct programs, but that resource has evaporated for us. Too bad because our MSLs have been well respected and end up leaving taking their relationships to competitors.

 

Will be leaving after the COE trip this summer. Strike while the iron is still hot if your numbers are good. 190-220k salary plus better bonus structure at other companies. Just like everyone has said, use AZ for the experience and resume padding if you preform, then bolt. My manager told me that 6 months ago, and that’s what i’m doing

 

the truth. i left about 3 months ago after being here for 15 years. shouldve done it way sooner. went to a competitor and got a $40k bump in pay and better bonuses. az had better wake up.

 

The culture is just as much about box checking as it is about improving patient outcomes. Good luck with it all. I'm waiting until the end June to put my notice in

 

Oncologists do NOT see pharma reps. Don't waste your time in a bogus job.