Novartis BioCamp

Don Chen has been with Novartis Pharma since 1997, and is currently Head of HR Pharma in Taiwan. In 2003, Don was instrumental in the creation of what is now known as Novartis BioCamp, a program that offers graduate students in science and business an intimate look inside the world of biotechnology. Through interaction with a faculty of seasoned managers, accomplished researchers, and other experts, Novartis has introduced nearly 500 top students to the biotech industry and entrepreneurship. Since its launch six years ago, global BioCamp seminars have been held in Singapore (2006), Tokyo (2007), Hong Kong (2008) and Cambridge, Massachusetts (2009), in addition to the many local BioCamps held worldwide.

While the innovative and creative idea for Novartis BioCamp was generated in Asia several years ago, it aligns well with our current priorities given that as a company we are looking for future growth – both in terms of market and talent – in the East.

Don graduated in 1983 from the National Ping-Tung Institute of Agriculture with a diploma in food service. In 2005, he received a master’s degree in human resources from the National Central University in Taiwan. He began his career as a sales representative for Ciba in Taiwan, but started his HR career in earnest in 1997 with Novartis Pharma Taiwan.

Described by his peers as “an extremely enthusiastic colleague, full of positive energy,” Don is a seafood-lover and an avid reader. Don is particularly interested in the teachings of Confucius and makes an effort to apply this philosophy to modern HR practice.