Even though many of our graduates will have progressed in their careers since completing a case study, they are still of interest to students who wish to gain an understanding of the world of work.

Liaising with Pharmaceutical manufacturers regarding their contracts and negotiating distribution arrangements with them. Understanding the manufacturers needs and working on joint business plans to help them meet their needs. My team are the main point of contact and maintain the relationship between the internal business and the manufacturers.

Planning and researching manufacturers products and therapy areas. Meeting with manufacturers, mostly the commercial team contacts within the company. Developing joint business plans with the manufacturers and action plans to move projects forward. Liaising with colleagues within our business to problem solve and ensure a high level of service for the manufacturer. Tender processes and negotiating commercial terms.

I value working for a healthcare company who impacts on thousands of patients lives every day. I enjoy being accountable for my work, this role gives me freedom to work in the way I feel is best for me and best for the business. I enjoy meeting new people and building strong relationships to ensure a good working partnership. I like working in a target driven environment and being challenged, I learn something new most days.

Managing my time and being organised to ensure high levels of service are maintained for the manufacturer and projects are completed on time and completed to a high standard.

I have previously worked for pharmaceutical companies in a sales role and wanted to use my knowledge of this field as well as further my skills and experience.

I required a degree qualification for the job. My knowledge of the pharmaceutical industry. Sales, networking, negotiating and organisational skills were all key. Motivation and drive to succeed also played a big part in me securing the role. People skills are essential.

Work shadowing. E learning. Coaching. Self development is essential.

I worked at York hospital for 8 months when I left University in an admin role, which gave me a good understanding of the hospital environment.

I worked for Merck Sharp and Dohme in the sales division for 2 years. I was responsible for selling diabetes and cardiovascular products to Primary Care customers. I had to take the ABPI qualification to allow me to progress within the sales division of a Pharmaceutical company.

I worked for Napp Pharmaceuticals for 4 years in an account management role selling pain management and respiratory products to Primary and Secondary Care and also Medicines Management teams.

I would like to further my knowledge in the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare markets and progress up the career ladder to ensure I remain challenged by the role I am in.

Do your research into the company and revise answers to likely questions in preparation for an interview. Be confident, friendly, motivated and enthusiastic. I have learnt it is about getting the right person for the job who fits with the team and who is wiling to learn. You don't need all of the skills just show your capability to pick up new skills and knowledge. In a sales career people buy from people they like so bear that in mind, it is always about understanding the customers needs and how your product/service can fulfil this need.

A career within pharmaceutical sales can be tough, but if you are motivated to succeed it is very rewarding. You can gain excellent transferable skills which will put you a fantastic position for the future.