Employer interview: 'We look at candidates' credibility and reputation'

Raed Smadi is the Senior VP of Corporate Human Resources at Tabuk Pharmaceuticals, a company founded in 1994 that develops, manufactures, markets and distributes branded generic pharmaceuticals and under-licensed products globally, with a focus on the Middle East and North Africa region. Raed has a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Jordan, and a Master’s degree from the University of Wales Cardiff. He has been working in the Human Resources field for over 19 years. In this interview, Mr. Smadi tells Bayt.com the advantages of working at Tabuk Pharmaceuticals, the skills he’s after when hiring talents for his company, and his advice to job seekers.

1- Tell us about yourself in 30 words or less.

I started my career in Royal Jordanian Airlines as a Human Resources Engineer, where the last position I occupied was the Director of Planning and Development. Prior to joining Tabuk Pharmaceuticals, I was the Levant Human Resources Manager of Aramex International.

2- What’s the best part about working at your company?

Joining a company that has challenging growth plans provides a unique experience; for with growth comes opportunity. The company is constantly looking for talented professionals, across all locations and functions, to strengthen its human capital and to join its pipeline of potential future leaders. In addition, Tabuk Pharmaceuticals provides an environment conducive of learning, and develops its employees through providing exceptional technical and managerial capability training programs. It also offers a distinctive employee value proposition and strive to continuously enhance them.

3- What’s your #1 advice to professionals who want to work at your company?

My advice is: “think long term”.  I would ask them to consider joining the company as a long-term plan, and benefit from the unique opportunities Tabuk provides its employees. Tabuk Pharmaceuticals provides excellent growth opportunities in terms of exposing its employees to a fast-growing industry and developing their technical and managerial abilities in a demanding business environment. This would enhance enriching their career in the future and leave them with greater career choices.

3- What are the top 3 things you look for when hiring?

The first thing Tabuk Pharmaceuticals looks for in candidates is their job fit to ensure they make quick, positive contributions. The company always seeks candidates who will be part of the team which drives it towards success. A Candidate’s credibility is also deemed a priority, including both his character and work reputation. The third important character trait we look for is the candidate’s ability to work in a fast paced environment and have the courage to accept the challenges this may bring.

4- What is the most common mistake job seekers make during a job interview?

The most common mistake is candidates coming without a clear career goals set. Candidates need to prove that hiring them is a win-win situation. They must show their interest in the company they are applying for, by learning as much as possible about the company’s industry, plans and environment.

6- What is the biggest challenge you face in hiring talent?

Finding workers who fit the company culture is the biggest challenge we face in hiring talents. New hires need to be able to integrate in the team and work well in the company’s environment, otherwise the HR will have to start the talent acquisition process all over again, and this will cost effort and time. Finding a candidate who will add value to the company is something always difficult to find especially in our environment and the severe competition.

By Sara Hammouri