Meet the Team – Q&A with Senior Associate Rosemary Ichaba

Meet the Team – Q&A with Senior Associate Rosemary Ichaba

Rosemary was introduced to QA after completing a Masters in Drug Discovery and Pharma Management and from here she branched out into Project Management, working within a Global CRO for two and a half years. Following this, she became QA Facilitator/Auditor in a research organisation before joining Tower Mains as a Senior Associate in 2022.

Here, she tells us what initially attracted her to QA, her career highlights, and what makes her tick outside of work.

What initially attracted you to a career in QA?

I wanted to change the way people experienced auditors. In my previous roles, I had experienced scary auditors, and I didn’t think that was an effective way of trying to audit an organisation or team. I always thought auditors were the best people to affect quality within organisations, and given that I had natural auditing skills, I thought this would be the best career change. I am also very passionate about development and love being part of someone’s development on the job, i.e. not knowing something and then being knowledgeable in the same area by the end of a meeting or an audit. I saw the opportunity to audit as a learning opportunity for my auditee.

What has been your biggest career highlight so far?

Being able to audit an international central laboratory! I had always dreamed of auditing internationally and was so glad to be given the opportunity. It was an excellent experience for me as I was able to see the coupling of my work experience and having previously worked in Project Management, Data Management and Quality Assurance and my educational background – studying Chemistry and a master’s in Drug Discovery and Pharma Management – come together to aid the preparation and conduct of the audit. I couldn’t stop smiling!

You’re fairly new to the team at Tower Mains, what have you enjoyed the most so far?

Being part of the team. I work with the most amazing people with great personalities and a sense of humour, which helps me be myself. Working with a fantastic team has helped me feel comfortable being part of Tower Mains but has also helped me grow, learn, and establish my auditing style. Having a great team has helped me learn more about my colleagues, which has helped me develop a better understanding of everyone’s strengths, weaknesses, and personalities. We can learn from each other and share our knowledge and skills like one happy family.

What makes you tick outside of work?

I enjoy being part of student outreach activities. I’m an active alumnus at Plymouth University, and I love being able to return to my university and help inspire the next generation. I do this by sharing my experience in finding my career and the importance of being part of a growing community and network. I also run an organisation called FSS-UK (Finance Support 4 Students – CIC); I help students find and apply for non-repayable grants and provide Career development services to those looking for a career change. I love receiving messages from students who have received money through our services or have gotten a new job – it feels great to know I am helping the next and current generation grow and learn too.

To find out more about what Rosemary, and the Tower Mains team, can do for you, click here, or email us at info@towermains.com.