“Accountability means standing behind your words” – Vasyl Petrus
Vasyl Petrus doesn’t look for excuses – he looks for solutions. He’s not afraid of mistakes – he sees them as stepping stones to growth. As Senior Manager of New Product Introduction Program at Sopharma, a member of the expert group of the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur, EDQM) and an Independent Expert for the Ukrainian Pharmacopoeia, Vasyl was also recognized at the end of 2024 as Ambassador of the Value Accountability within our company.
The recognition comes naturally. Accountability is a cornerstone of his work ethic, decision-making, and the example he sets for others. His colleagues describe him as someone who brings forward innovative ideas and approaches, and a dedicated professional who leads by example.
So, what does responsibility really mean to you?
“Hmm… tough question, but the answer should be simple”, shares Vasyl. “To me, being accountable means doing what you say. First and foremost. Second – looking for solutions, not excuses. And third – building trust and integrity within the team”.
What did you want to be when you were a child?
“I wanted to be an inventor”, he smiles. “I was always curious about how things worked. I dreamed of creating something that would be useful for people. And honestly, that drive is still alive – especially now that I work in the pharmaceutical field“.
As it turns out, his childhood dream of creating meaningful things has evolved, but never faded.
Is admitting a mistake a sign of weakness or strength?
“Neither. It’s a necessity. If you want to grow, you have to be able to look back and see where you went wrong. Mistakes aren’t failures – they’re tools and great teachers”, Vasyl reflects.
He strongly believes that learning from our mistakes builds both character and self-awareness.
What does growing through mistakes mean to you?
“A clear opportunity. If we use it the right way, it’s one of the best ways to grow in every possible sense”.
What message would you share with young professionals just starting out?
“Take ownership. Don’t be afraid to try new things, even when it’s difficult. Actually, especially then. It’s in challenges that we find the biggest lessons. That’s how we learn. That’s how the company grows. And most importantly, you’re not alone. We’re here to support you”, Vasyl says with conviction.
Through his example, Vasyl shows that innovation goes hand in hand with integrity, with the willingness to learn, and with the courage to try. And behind it all stands the conscious choice to do the right thing – even when no one is watching.
