Amgen is a biotechnology pioneer, committed to unlocking the potential of biology for patients suffering from serious illnesses by discovering, developing, manufacturing and delivering innovative human therapeutics. This approach begins by using tools like advanced human genetics to unravel the complexities of disease and understand the fundamentals of human biology. Amgen focuses on areas of high unmet medical need and leverages its expertise to strive for solutions that improve health outcomes and dramatically improve people's lives. Amgen has grown to be one of the world's leading independent biotechnology companies, has reached millions of patients around the world and is developing a pipeline of medicines with breakaway potential.
For Esteban Santos, Executive Vice President of Operations at Amgen, a key leadership insight happened to coincide with a devastating natural disaster. Hurricane Maria, a deadly Category 5 hurricane, hit the Caribbean in September 2017, plunging the entire island of Puerto Rico into darkness. Amgen, a leading global biotechnology company, has its largest manufacturing site in Puerto Rico and they immediately sprang into action.
“How we stepped up as an organization in Puerto Rico was so special,” Esteban shared. Amgen quickly landed 2000 generators in Puerto Rico, set up a small bank, gas station, industrial laundry facility, ice operation, and even provided meals for their staff to take home to their families. “But more amazing than what we did for our staff, is what our staff did for us.” While much of the island was in turmoil for months after the storm, Amgen’s manufacturing facility was back up and running by the end of the first week. “The commitment that the team showed to the company was one of the most incredible things I’ve seen. So, what is the lesson learned? You take care of your staff, and the staff will take care of your business.”
