Amy, this can be a real challenge. That said, I would first start with mapping out your experience(s) to what you learned from your certificate and see where perhaps skills and requirements are similar. For instance, managing a QC lab may be similar, even if the exact tests are different. Writing test reports may be very similar, etc. Then try and find that first role in an area where the skills map closest. Having done this background work will really help your interviewing, as you will better be able to tell them "how you can help" in that particular role. Particularly, you might consider a med tech QA role at first, that can lead to an RA role later.
Also, I'd tend to look for either smaller companies or small departments in bigger companies. There, the hiring managers tend to have a bit more flexibility to look at non-traditional candidates, unlike where HR controls all aspects.
Another idea would be to find a company where they may make products in both types of categories, so you can leverage one skill while learning another.
Most of all, be persistent. Switches like this take time, but eventually you can get to where you want to be.
Ginger
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Ginger Glaser RAC
Chief Technology Officer
MN
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Original Message:
Sent: 09-May-2021 19:28
From: Amy Miller
Subject: Transition to Regulatory Affairs
I am seeking to transition my career to Regulatory Affairs and would like a little advice. I currently am a Quality Assurance Manager at a food company with a RAPS Certification in Medical Devices and Pharmaceuticals. I have experience in R&D, microbiology, and quality assurance in the food industry but would like to transition to either the medical devices or pharmaceutical industry. Does anyone have some advice on how to use my extensive experience in a regulated industry to my advantage while seeking new employment in a different industry? Thanks!
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Amy Miller
QA Manager
Vernon Center MN
United States
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