Her Story
About Chhaya
Pharmaceutical quality and operations leader with 19+ years at Merck driving supplier quality,
compliance, and cross-functional execution across global manufacturing networks. I specialize in
transforming complex, high-stakes relationships — 65+ strategic suppliers, multi-site quality
agreements, and regulatory inspections — into streamlined, audit-ready systems that protect
supply and accelerate business outcomes. My edge is bridging strategic oversight with
operational discipline: reducing contract cycle times by 20–30%, sustaining >95% right-first-time
approvals, and leading quality transformations ahead of schedule — all in regulated, highvisibility
environments.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Chhaya
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of continuous growth, strong relationship-building, agility, perseverance and maintaining a positive attitude.
I take ownership of expanding my skill set and actively seek opportunities to learn and evolve, while also recognizing the importance of interpersonal relationship both in and out of the workplace.
Equally important, is my commitment to fostering relationships where individuals feel included, valued, and heard.
Success is not something that I've attained alone overnight. While my work ethics has definitely played a role, I have been advised and uplifted by many mentors who have shaped my journey.
Resilience has also been a key driver of my journey. I approach setbacks with adaptability and perseverance, maintaining a positive mindset and viewing challenges as opportunities to grow stronger and move forward with purpose.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received from many mentors is that career progression is ultimately in your hands. You have to be the drive force, seek out new opportunities, and gained support from your manager to pursue them effectively.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Gain clarity by reflecting and journaling, understand your strengths, passions and skillset. Seek out mentorship and sponsorship early in your career; as the right advocates can and will unlock new opportunities. Equally important, follow your dreams, work smart, and willing to have the difficult conversations that are necessary for real growth.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Pharma manufacturing and quality operations have increased focus on real‑time quality monitoring, AI & automation to build efficiency, and a move toward regionalized manufacturing and digital supply chains to reduce dependency on single region to enhance supply resilience.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter the most are being honest, transparent and always willingness to learn. I also prioritize work life balance as I have two daughters and they are at the ages where they need guidance and support to navigate new phases of life and challenges. Making space for my family while continuing to grow professionally is a value I hold close.
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