Pharmaceuticals | Life at Safic | Our People
A deep dive — quite literally — into life at Safic-Alcan through the experience of Ivan Coromina, Pharmaceuticals Account Manager in our Spanish office and a true sea enthusiast.
Introduce yourself… When and why did you join Safic-Alcan? What made you consider joining us?
In 2004, after completing my degree in Chemical Engineering, I was searching for my first serious professional opportunity. While browsing job listings, I came across an advertisement for a Junior Sales position. I was not familiar with Safic-Alcan at the time, but I decided to apply.
After several interviews, I joined Safic-Alcan Especialidades as an Account Manager in Pharmaceuticals and Nutrition, responsible for APIs. What convinced me to join was the strong sense of connection I felt with the people I met during the recruitment process, as well as the opportunity to become part of a European multinational group — something entirely new for me.
Sixteen years later, I am still here.
How do you experience your relationships with collaborators, partners, principals or customers?
Safic-Alcan truly feels like a big family. Since 2004, I have witnessed the company’s significant growth, including multiple acquisitions and the expansion of our presence across Europe, Asia, the USA and the Middle East.
We collaborate closely with colleagues from other Safic subsidiaries, including China and Turkey, leveraging synergies with our principals on shared projects. Our global footprint allows us to support customers and partners across countries by connecting them with the appropriate subsidiary when needed. This international presence strengthens and simplifies our business relationships.
What is something curious or personal we should know about you?
I have a deep passion for the sea. I enjoy sailing, spending time at the beach with family and friends, and sharing good meals by the water. Living and working in Barcelona gives me the privilege of enjoying this lifestyle regularly.
How do you incorporate Safic’s values — Commitment, Differentiation, Ethics, Trust & Reliability, Sustainable Development, Teamwork and Transparency — into your daily work?
In the pharmaceutical industry, business relationships are built over time and grounded in trust. They are not transactional; they require reliability, transparency and consistency.
Safic’s values — sustainability, ethics and long-term commitment — remind us that we are here to build solid, lasting partnerships with customers and colleagues. Our business demands quality, efficiency and trust, and these principles guide our actions every day.
Do you have a memorable or light story to share from your time at Safic-Alcan?
International exhibitions such as CPHI China have always been exciting experiences. Traveling abroad, meeting partners and customers, discovering new cultures and sharing moments — both challenging and fun — with colleagues create lasting memories.
One particularly memorable moment was experiencing severe flooding in Wuhan, China. Returning home became quite an odyssey — rushing to the airport, almost missing flights — but throughout the experience, we relied on teamwork and good spirits. It was stressful, but also unforgettable.
What is the one key message for candidates considering joining Safic-Alcan?
Safic-Alcan is truly like a family. The company offers opportunities for both personal and professional growth. Mobility and internal development are real — you may start in one role and evolve into another over time.
There is genuine opportunity to grow within the Group.
Safic-Alcan in five words
Mobility.
Long-term relationships.
Growth.
Dynamism.
A company where you can build a long and evolving career, collaborate internationally and continuously develop.