For many young adults, career growth often includes going back to school to boost skills and expand their impact. Take Andrew Johnston, strategy insights and planning manager in our global headquarters of Evanston, IL, for example. His career story demonstrates how ZS supports our people in their educational pursuits.
A career rooted in curiosity
Andrew began his ZS journey in 2016, fresh out of Purdue University with a degree in industrial engineering. His early roles focused on software implementation and data-driven marketing analytics for pharmaceutical clients. While the work was engaging, actively using the skills he learned as an undergrad, Andrew knew he wasn’t yet done with school. He decided to pursue an MBA to broaden his exposure to the healthcare industry.
“I enjoyed the work I did,” he reflects, “but I wanted the opportunity to explore more strategic advisory work.”
Where passion changes lives
Supported by ZS’s education sponsorship program, Andrew decided to pursue an MBA at the Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan.
ZS’s sponsorship is available to high-performing individuals with at least 30 months of tenure. If approved, ZSers are offered a structured tuition reimbursement while they work and pursue further education. “The sponsorship made it clear that ZS was invested in my long-term success,” he says.
The support didn’t stop with financial assistance. While still in school, Andrew stayed connected with ZS leaders across different practice areas. He engaged in networking conversations with principals across research and development (R&D) and commercial practices. These connections ultimately helped him find his current niche within drug development strategy.
From classroom to client impact
Graduating and kick-starting a new career path in 2022, Andrew joined the firm’s R&D practice with a renewed sense of purpose. His business school experience prepared him for a shift into more strategic work—leading clinical data management initiatives and cross-functional collaboration projects for biopharma clients.
He credits his MBA not just for technical frameworks, but for developing essential leadership skills. “Business school helped me grow into a team builder and a business developer,” Andrew explains. “At the manager level, I need the ability to structure ambiguity, communicate with senior leadership and align resources around a vision. That’s where the real value of the MBA comes through.”
Advice for aspiring students
When asked what advice he’d offer others thinking about further education, Andrew doesn’t sugar coat the challenge. “You’re taking on two years of increased work and increased expenses, so it’s not a short-term win,” he explains. “But if you see it as a long-term investment in yourself, it can be incredibly rewarding.”
He also urges others to think deeply about their goals. “You’re not just paying for classes—you’re buying into a network, a mindset and a chance to reset your career trajectory.”
A culture that champions growth
Andrew’s story is just one of many that highlights ZS’s commitment to learning. Whether it’s supporting new degrees, sponsoring certifications or encouraging team members to explore new practice areas, ZS fosters a culture where continuous growth is supported and celebrated. As Andrew puts it, “ZS gives you the tools and trust to carve your own path. If you can make a compelling case, the firm will back you.”
If you’re looking for a place where your growth is supported, your ambitions are encouraged and your potential is truly valued, ZS might be the perfect fit. Join a community that invests in your future—explore career opportunities at ZS and discover how far your journey can go.
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