Making the transition from the military back to civilian life can be a challenge. To help, at Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), we formed a dedicated Veterans Community Network (VCN), where the support of fellow service members fosters engagement and creates a sense of community. Bristol Myers Squibb provides a rewarding work environment for veterans and military service members to build their careers and to create a new life for themselves and their families.
Bristol Myers Squibb has dedicated members of the Talent Acquisition team to actively seek and recruit veterans and military spouses. We have partnered with companies like Hiring Our Heroes to improve our outreach to candidates, regularly attending external hiring events virtually and in person. We also actively educate BMS employees and hiring managers on the value of veteran employees and help them understand that veterans bring our teams a wealth of skills, experiences, and values that align with our company goals and mission. Our veteran employees regularly demonstrate the leadership, adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to excellence that can drive innovation, enhance our company culture, and contribute to the overall success of BMS.
Two of our colleagues, Ricardo Sanchez, Global Lead of BMS’ Veterans Community Network, and Loria Ortiz, Talent Acquisition Partner, share their perspectives on the meaningful real-world impact veterans and service members are making with careers at BMS. As veterans themselves, Ricardo and Loria also discuss why BMS offers a great opportunity to use your experience and leadership skills gained in the military towards new career opportunities.
A: As a talent acquisition partner at BMS, who is also a veteran that served in the Gulf War, I can tell you that veterans bring a unique and invaluable set of skills and experiences to BMS, significantly enhancing our mission of transforming patients' lives. One of the primary reasons hiring veterans makes sense is the diversity of thought they offer. Veterans come with a wealth of experiences and a mindset that is distinct from typical corporate culture. Their ability to think outside the box and approach challenges from unique perspectives brings fresh, innovative solutions to our organization.
Moreover, veterans can improve employee morale. Knowing that a colleague has served and defended our country instills a sense of pride and respect among employees. This shared respect fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and unity within the team, contributing to a positive and supportive work environment.
Veterans are also known for their resilience and adaptability. Their military training equips them to manage change and uncertainty with ease, making them excellent leaders and role models within the organization. Their disciplined approach ensures that tasks are completed efficiently and effectively, and they are exceptional team players who support their colleagues and contribute to the collective success of the team.
A: BMS is an exceptional place for individuals with military experience, offering a supportive and fulfilling environment that values the unique skills and dedication veterans bring. When I first started at BMS during my internship, I had no corporate or pharmaceutical industry experience. Despite this, my manager entrusted me with significant projects, confident in my ability to meet deadlines without constant oversight. This trust and responsibility are indicative of the respect and confidence BMS places in veterans.
One of the key aspects that makes BMS a great workplace for veterans is the company's commitment to service. At the heart of everything we do is our dedication to patients, which resonates deeply with veterans who are accustomed to serving a higher purpose. This alignment of values provides a sense of fulfillment and motivation, making it easy for veterans to transition their sense of duty from military service to their roles at BMS.
BMS also offers a generous military leave policy, which is particularly beneficial for service members like Guardsmen and Reservists. This policy ensures that while on covered deployments, service members continue to receive their full BMS compensation in addition to their military earnings. This financial security allows them to focus on their duties without worrying about their families back home.
Veterans bring a unique blend of diversity, resilience, leadership, and teamwork to BMS. Our supportive, purpose-driven environment values the unique contributions of veterans while committing to helping veterans transition smoothly, making BMS an ideal workplace for individuals with military experience.
If you're interested in a career where your military experience will be valued and you can make a difference in the lives of patients every day, there's a place for you at BMS. You can advance your career and learn new skills while doing interesting and meaningful work. Search for actively open roles at careers.bms.com.
