Employee Spotlight: Shirin Azizi

Shirin Azizi | Senior Territory Manager | Joined Penumbra in 2014

Q. What is your current role at Penumbra?

As Senior Territory Manager, I have a wide range of activities. My sales responsibilities include strategic business development, customer visits, product positioning, market analysis, maintaining relationships with opinion leaders, supporting healthcare professionals, collaborating with marketing, participating in product launches and training sessions, and managing consignment and travel stock. And, for sure, I’m selling CAVT^™!!!

Q. What drew you to Penumbra?

I am drawn to Penumbra for several reasons:

• My interest in working for a reputable company in the medical technology field.
• My personal career ambitions and the opportunities for evolving within the organization.
• My desire to be involved with innovative products that make a difference.
• My appreciation for a positive workplace culture that fosters collaboration and growth.
• The attractive compensation and benefits that Penumbra offers.
• The chance to contribute to impactful projects that improve patient outcomes.

These factors are significant motivators in my decision to be a part of the Penumbra team.

Q. What aspects of your job do you enjoy most?

From the moment I joined the company, I knew it was the right place for me. The supportive and collaborative environment has helped me grow both personally and professionally.

Over the years, I have been given increasing responsibilities and challenges, which have allowed me to develop new skills and enhance my expertise. I have been fortunate to work with a diverse team, and the exchange of ideas and perspectives has been invaluable.

The company culture at Penumbra is one of innovation and continuous improvement. There is always room for growth and development.

I am grateful for the opportunities I have been given at Penumbra and for the support of my colleagues and managers. I look forward to continuing my journey with the company and contributing to its success.

Q. What is the most important thing you have learned in the last five years?

Over the past five years, I have learned significant lessons, particularly through working full-time and raising two young children. I have learned to believe in myself and recognize that I can handle both professional and family challenges.

Work and family has taught me to prioritize and use my time effectively to meet both professional demands and the needs of my children. Through my role as a parent, I have further developed my capacity for empathy and patience, which is also beneficial in my professional environment. I recognize the importance of accepting support from family, friends, and colleagues to successfully complete my tasks.

These experiences have shown me that it is possible to overcome challenges as long as I believe in myself and have the right attitude. This combination of professional experience and personal growth has not only strengthened my skills but also promoted my self-confidence and resilience.

Q. What are three career lessons you’ve learned thus far?

• A positive mindset is crucial for success. Building resilience and push through with a positive outlook. It’s easy to fall into the negativity trap and think that the grass is always greener elsewhere.
• Networking is more than wearing a sharp suit, it’s about genuine connections and understanding the stories and dreams of others. Instead of focusing on quantity, we should prioritize deeper, meaningful relationships.
• I’ve learned that great things never come from comfort zones; stepping out and embracing challenges leads to growth and new opportunities.

Q. What is your personal philosophy?

My philosophy of life is based on understanding and enjoying life in its depth. It’s important to me to remain human and approach others with empathy and respect. I believe that each of us has the ability to make a positive impact on the world.

Even if I can improve the life of just one person, I see that as valuable progress. By initiating small, positive changes in my community, I hope to contribute to a better world.