The story of a dedicated overseas professional is one of perseverance and growth, navigating challenges with an unyielding spirit. Katrina P. Lim-Narag, currently the Patient and Healthcare Experience Lead and Transformation Lead at Pfizer Saudi, has lived this narrative for 16 years. Since starting her career abroad in December 2008 in Dubai, UAE, she has made significant strides, establishing herself as a trailblazer in her field.
The beginning of a journey
Katrina arrived in Dubai just two months after getting married. She started as a temporary administrative secretary at the American Hospital Dubai, a role limited to 60 days and requiring a visa she didn’t yet possess. “We borrowed money from friends to process my husband’s visa,” she recalls to The Global Filipino Magazine. Despite these challenges, her exceptional work impressed the medical director, who created a permanent position for her. “It was a turning point that reassured me of the value of perseverance and excellence,” Katrina shares.
In 2012, Katrina and her husband Gary welcomed their daughter, Kalista, after four years of waiting. “Her arrival brought immense joy, but also new challenges,” Katrina reflects. The family moved to a private apartment, leading to increased expenses, compounded by minimal salary increments. To address financial strains, Katrina ventured into multi-level marketing and rented out apartments. However, the economic downturn left these apartments vacant, forcing her to cover rents from her pocket.
Finding a creative solution, Katrina set up a nursery where Kalista could stay and play with peers. Though unlicensed initially and financially unsustainable, the nursery provided stability and a sense of purpose. By 2013, they could afford a nanny, who also worked in the nursery. “It was a challenging yet fulfilling period,” Katrina recalls.
Pioneering change at work
Katrina’s professional growth accelerated in 2014 when she implemented a credentialing system at the hospital, streamlining the process for granting privileges to doctors. Yet, she felt unfulfilled in her administrative role. An acquaintance seeking assistance at the hospital opened a door to Pfizer. After months of negotiation, Katrina secured a contractor role, eventually transitioning to a full-time position as an executive assistant to the country manager.
By 2016, Katrina had drafted a career path with her manager’s guidance. “We identified milestones that seemed daunting,” she admits. These included becoming a Digital Manager by 2019 and a Regional Manager by 2022. Recognizing the need for further education, Katrina enrolled in an online Global MBA in Digital Transformation, financed through a loan her husband took out. “I promised him I would make him proud,” she says.
While studying, Katrina undertook leadership roles, such as Project Lead for Pfizer’s Regional Women’s Council, where she spearheaded initiatives like virtual learning platforms and success circles. Her efforts culminated in her promotion to Digital Manager in 2019, three months ahead of her initial goal.
When the pandemic hit in 2020, Katrina transitioned to the role of Customer Experience Manager, becoming part of Pfizer’s country leadership team. “I was overwhelmed at first but determined to rise to the challenge,” she says. To bolster her confidence, she enrolled in an Executive MBA program at Harvard Business School, funded with her sister’s help. “Completing the program solidified my leadership skills,” Katrina adds.
A new chapter in Saudi Arabia
In 2023, Katrina’s hunger for new challenges led her to a role in Saudi Arabia as Patient and Healthcare Experience Lead. “Getting my family’s approval was the toughest part,” she shares, as her husband and daughter initially resisted the move. After securing the position, Katrina’s family remained in Dubai while she began her new role. “Innovation is integral to my work, which makes it exciting and fulfilling,” she says.
Katrina’s journey has not been without its struggles. “Language barriers limited opportunities in sales, but learning basic Arabic and understanding cultural nuances helped,” she explains. She also faced stereotypes about Filipinas in specific roles, often being mistaken for a customer service worker even while shopping. “Education and persistence allowed me to break these barriers and redefine expectations for Filipinas in the pharmaceutical industry,” she says proudly.
Katrina’s current role involves crafting innovative strategies to enhance patient and healthcare experiences. “Understanding customer needs and creating tailored experiences is what drives me,” she says. Her passion for learning and human interaction, inspired by her upbringing, continues to fuel her growth.
Outside work, Katrina is committed to mentoring others. “My life goal is to impact 500 lives through coaching and mentoring,” she shares. Since starting this goal three years ago, she has mentored individuals on a one-to-one basis, inspiring them to achieve their aspirations.
Words of advice
For kabayans struggling abroad, Katrina emphasizes long-term planning. “Know what you want to achieve in life, not just what you want to provide for your family. Having a retirement goal allows you to save, invest, and act wisely,” she advises. She also stresses the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people and remaining true to one’s values. “Happiness is a choice we make every day,” she adds.
The Filipina professional envisions continuing to drive innovation and inspire others. Her journey from a temporary administrative role to a leadership position at a global pharmaceutical company exemplifies determination and adaptability. “What matters most is accepting yourself, respecting your values, and embracing your identity as a Filipino,” she concludes.
