Ricky Sharma
Name: Ricky Sharma
Job: Vice President of Clinical Affairs, Siemens Healthineers
Industry: Healthcare
Class of: 1989
House: Clyde
What do you do?
I am currently a Vice President for Siemens Healthineers, a company that produces healthcare equipment and medical technology. Additionally, I’m an Honorary Professor at University College London where I lecture in cancer research and treatment. I’m also an Honorary Consultant in Clinical Oncology.
How did you get to where you are today?
After HSOG, I studied Medicine at Cambridge University before working as a junior doctor in Cambridge, Glasgow, Leicester and London. During this time, I also completed a PhD in cancer research and met my wife, who I married during my PhD. I was working as an Associate Professor at the University of Oxford when our family expanded from two dogs to two children. Subsequently, I was appointed as a full professor at University College London in 2016, where I was also a Consultant Oncologist at University College London Hospitals and on Harley Street.
In 2020, I moved to a global role with a healthcare company called Varian, who reach over 4 million patients every year. They also have employees in over 70 countries. My career goal has been to prevent and treat cancer at a global scale. One day I hope for a world without fear of cancer.
What is a standout memory of your time at The High School of Glasgow?
I was very fortunate to be elected School Captain by the teachers and pupils. For me, the entire Sixth Year is a standout memory as one of the best years of my life. Amongst other memories, I fondly remember the HSOG events, the assemblies, the team spirit, the rugby, the athletics, the public speaking and the music. HSOG gave me a rock solid foundation for my student years and my subsequent career path.
What one piece of advice would you give to current pupils and recent leavers as they look to their futures?
Enjoy each stage of your career while you are in it, but also have a vague idea of where it might lead you in the future. Position yourself to be in the right place for your chosen path, so that when opportunities arise out of the blue, you can make the most of the timing. And remember that it is a small world – you will see most of your colleagues again in other walks of life, so treat everyone with respect and kindness.
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