Accountability as a strength: The story of Mihaela Tolina
There are people for whom responsibility isn’t just a value – it’s a way of life, evident in everything they do. One such person is Mihaela Tolina, Project Process Manager in the “Digital Solutions” division at Sopharma and the 2024 Ambassador for the company value Accountability.
With a warm smile and a lighthearted joke or two, Mihaela approaches serious topics with ease- like what it means to be someone others can truly rely on. Her colleagues see her as a consummate professional, and her nomination as a Values Ambassador came as recognition for her key role in the AXAPTA ERP system migration project.
Mihaela is one of those people you feel at ease working with – whether you’re sharing a project, pitching an idea, or simply having a relaxed chat. In all cases, you know you’ll be met with understanding, support, and just the right touch of humor.
“Being able to take responsibility is a key quality everyone should strive to develop”, she shares. For her, it’s not about making commitments lightly but about having the determination to see them through – even when it gets tough. “Standing behind your words and actions – that’s where the true value of responsibility lies”.
What aviation and project management have in common?
As a child, Mihaela dreamed of flying – literally. After her first airplane trip at age seven, she became fascinated with aviation. “I remember being so impressed by the flight attendant – their appearance, their poise… They felt like movie characters”, she recalls with a smile. That dream stayed with her for years, until life led her down a different, but equally exciting path into the world of projects, digital solutions, and process management.
“There’s definitely something in common between aviation and project management”, she says. “Both require quick thinking and fast decision-making, especially in high-pressure situations”.
Maturity means owning your mistakes
When it comes to making mistakes, Mihaela is clear:
“Owning up to your mistakes is a sign of maturity. Only emotionally mature people can look at themselves objectively and learn from their failures”.
In her view, there’s no room for blame or cover-ups – only for growth. For her, mistakes are an invaluable part of both personal and professional development.
Family: The strongest source of support
Behind every confident woman is often a circle of people who give her strength. For Mihaela, it’s her family, her friends and one particularly special person.
“My son is an amazing conversationalist. He’s curious about my work, asks questions, gives advice. Sometimes he even comes up with ideas I hadn’t thought of”, she shares with joy.
Here, too, it’s clear – responsibility isn’t limited to work. It lives at home, in our relationships, and in the example we set for others.
A heartfelt message for the young talents
As our conversation comes to a close, Mihaela offers a message to those just starting out in their careers:
“Believe in yourselves. Ask questions. Be kind. Don’t take things personally—and don’t forget to smile. Work can and should bring you joy”.
