Kershni SoobramoneyApplications Specialist

What was your key driving force to become an Applications Specialist?

I have always felt drawn towards helping others and towards making a difference to situations and people around me. I enjoy problem solving as well as imparting knowledge to others. This position was a perfect fit for these passions.

Tell us a little about your background? 

With 19 years of pathology laboratory experience I was able to fulfil roles in both private and public sectors of medical technology including Laboratory Manager for three labs in KwaZulu Natal. I hold a national Diploma in Medical technology and a Bachelor of Technology in Quality Management which allowed me to forge a path in the healthcare industry.

Can you describe/outline your typical day?

A typical day can start with a quick glimpse at emails and Teams messages, followed by a drive out to customers either for troubleshooting problematic instruments or for customer training. Often travelling to more than one site a day, applications specialists are usually out for the duration of the day. Whilst attending to customers, calls still come through from our customer care center so there is a fair amount of juggling in a day. End of day after dinner is usually for admin and catching up of emails and responding to customers. We always run our work day with our customer at the top of mind.

How do you define success?

Success for me is how efficiently and effectively I work so as alleviate stress not only for my customers but also for my teammates.

What motivates you?

Knowing that there is a higher power and that I am accountable for my own actions always motivates me to give off my best, even when it’s difficult. Having a young daughter reminds me to set an example that she can be proud of.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Knowing that the knowledge we impart and support we provide contributes to accurate, reliable results which does help save lives. Our actions directly affect the patient and it shapes the future of healthcare.

What piece of advice would you give to potential candidates who want to follow in your footsteps?

Be prepared to work hard , to go the extra mile, to assess situations carefully before making decisions and most importantly to always remember that there is a patient on the other side who needs that result and that it could be someone you know and love.

What would you say are the top three skills needed to be a successful Healthineer?

Adaptivity, strong communication skills and resilience

If you were to describe the culture of the business, what five words would you use?

Evolving, innovation, competitive, quality driven, results driven.

What key activities would you recommend future Healthineers to invest their time in?

Actively seek out knowledge, work on improving your communication skills and focus on mastering time management.

What is the best advice you can give to youth who are forging a path in the medtech world?

Aim to work methodically and systematically but remember empathy and compassion are the building blocks of the medical world.