Employee Spotlight • Meet: LaAngela

My name is LaAngela, and I am the Site Quality Head at the Takeda Covington facility. I've been with the company for 9 years.

What has your career journey with Takeda been so far?

My career journey with Takeda has been nonetheless rewarding, impactful, and exciting. I have enjoyed my career journey, and the lessons learned along the way.

What about your role do you find the most rewarding?

While I love being involved in the technical aspects of work, my interactions with people I call my friends and colleagues excite me the most. It's coaching someone and watching them achieve their development goals that is most rewarding.

When others ask, how do you describe what it’s like to work for Takeda?

At the site, every day is different, which is why I love showing up. It's challenging, but yet rewarding, especially when you are able to see the benefits of your work and connect your purpose in the organization.

What is your biggest achievement so far?

While some may think my biggest achievement is my position (which I'm super elated), I'd say my biggest achievement in my career is getting to a place where I am comfortable to be authentically me. Takeda has created a safe space for us to be authentic. This has helped me excel in my career and has allowed me to help others by sharing my experiences.

Who has helped you in your career and how?

Wow... This is a tough question, as I've had several instrumental people help me in different ways. Sergio Cerdas (former Head of IG MFG) was my first real mentor outside of the quality organization, and he taught me how to balance life and work.

Hannah Frey (former boss to me, and former Head of MS) helped me realize my potential and challenged me even when I thought I wasn't capable. She didn't lower her standard, instead, she actually raised the bar.

Elizabeth Dritz (current Head of MFG at TO) demonstrated the importance of being a servant leader. She cared about her team, and because she cared, we were energized to show up every day.

When I think about my interactions with people outside of Takeda Covington, I was able to learn something from each interaction and establish new relationships.

In addition to the team members above, there are several people at the site who have had limited interactions with me, or may not know me, but take the time to encourage me. This helps me to continue being a leader at the site for a little while longer.

Last but not least, I truly dedicate my pivotal change to how I lead the Key Influencer Program. I constantly apply the Agile 6Ps and principles learned during cohort 3. This program further developed me as a leader and gave me the tools needed to better support my team.

How do you balance your personal interests and obligations outside of work? Any tips?

First, balance is different for everyone. How I may define balance may be different when compared to the next person, because we all have to do what's best for us. When starting a new role, I create a governance plan that defines my non-negotiables, and then I create a schedule that will ensure I have time to disconnect from work.

I believe disconnecting allows us to recharge. Prioritization and organization are also important. You must reflect each day, and understand your priorities for the following days. Create a plan, and understand your plan must be flexible.