Taking that first step

What inspired you to be a quality professional and what was your journey into quality?

My story with quality didn’t begin with a title – it began with a sense of responsibility. After graduating from the College of Pharmacy at the University of Baghdad, I moved to Bremen in Germany, where my path took an unexpected turn. I decided to pursue an ‘Ausbildung’ [a vocational training programme, combining theory and practical experience] as a medical assistant (MFA) – a role where quality wasn’t just a concept, but the core of everything we did.

During my time at Dr. Diessenbacher’s dermatology clinic, I learned the importance of documentation, the strict adherence to protocols, and patient safety. The Covid-19 pandemic hit during that period, reinforcing the value of precision, consistency, and quality in healthcare more than ever before.

Thanks to my high academic performance, I completed my training in just one and a half years, instead of the standard three. Upon returning to Iraq, I began working as a clinical pharmacist at Private Nursing Home Hospital in Baghdad, where quality practices, such as compliance with standards, guidelines, and proper documentation, were part of daily operations.

But the real turning point came when a colleague who recognised my potential recommended me for a quality assurance specialist role at Shubber Scientific Bureau, one of Iraq’s leading pharmaceutical distributors and the official representative for global companies like Pfizer, Sanofi, Viatris, Eli Lilly, P&G, and many others.

What does your day-to-day role as a quality assurance specialist involve?

Since stepping into this position, quality has become more than just a job; it is a mission. In Iraq, pharmaceutical distribution faces unique challenges, such as temperature excursions in such a hot country, the danger of counterfeiting, parallel and diverse products and many others.

Ensuring the safety of medicine during storage and transportation is not optional; it’s a critical responsibility. We are not just handling products – we are protecting lives. Every procedure, every checklist, every shipment must meet international standards because behind every box of medicine is a patient waiting, hoping and trusting.

Over the past two years, I’ve led the quality assurance department through more than eight audits, all successfully completed with no critical findings. With the support and consultation provided by our management, my team and I helped to improve our quality systems in line with global regulations, while offering support to maintain the ISO 9001 certification.

More notably, with the efforts of our IT and cyber security team, we became the first organisation in Iraq’s pharmaceutical sector to achieve certification to ISO 27001 Information security, cybersecurity and privacy protection – Information security management systems – Requirements, a milestone that reflects our commitment to information security and operational excellence.

"Quality is not just documentation or compliance, it is innovation, transformation, and a force for good. Our region needs more quality advocates, and I believe that those who start now will become the pioneers of a new era."

Zeena Al-Wardi PCQI, Quality Assurance Specialist at Shubber Scientific Bureau, Iraq

How is quality viewed in Iraq and what experiences have led you to that conclusion?

Quality, as a discipline, is still finding its foundation in Iraq; after decades of disruption and instability, building a culture of quality is a gradual process. But progress is happening, thanks to the efforts of leading companies that understand its value. At Shubber Scientific Bureau, we work closely with our international partners to bring best practices, training and expertise into the local market. This collaboration is making a real impact and shaping the future of the industry in Iraq.

Why do you feel that your job in quality is important – and what are you hoping to influence or change?

My passion for quality is deeply personal. When I see the role we play in ensuring the safety and availability of medications for people who depend on them, I feel the weight of the responsibility – and the privilege – of what I do. There are days when our team works more than required because, in this field, there’s no room for error. Someone, somewhere, is counting on us.

You have studied and earned credentials in Germany as well as Iraq – what have those additional qualifications added to your existing knowledge and expertise?

One of the things I’m most grateful for is the opportunity to have studied and worked in different countries. My time in Germany, both in education and in practice, instilled in me a deep sense of discipline, accuracy and commitment.

My first manager in Germany was more than a supervisor; he was a mentor who inspired my work ethic and helped me to see the beauty in structure and systems. That early influence in my career made it easier for me to bring that mindset back to Iraq and apply it within a local context.

Who has been your inspiration in your career?

There are many pioneering and inspiring examples in the field of quality, but I am personally most moved and inspired by successful women, especially those in my own country.

Women in the Middle East face additional challenges beyond those encountered globally, due to the nature and culture of our societies. Being a woman here often means balancing the roles of a mother, a wife, and a successful professional or entrepreneur, while also confronting societal pressures, stereotypes and the limitations placed on their opportunities. All of this demands extraordinary effort and resilience.

One of the most admirable role models in this regard is my current manager, the general manager of Shubber Scientific Bureau, Dr. Fatima Shubber. I feel proud to be working under her leadership and to have the opportunity to learn from her.

Finally, none of this would have been possible for me without the unwavering support of my small but powerful family, especially my mother, father and my husband, who keep supporting me, especially as a new mother. I carry this mission with even more purpose. I’m equally grateful to my professional family – my team, and my incredible manager – who continue to encourage me every step of the way.

When and why did you decide to join the CQI? 

I heard about the CQI through different training sessions that I received. I was instantly impressed by what CQI had to offer – global expertise, learning resources, professional development and a vibrant network. Becoming a member was a proud moment for me.

The application process was efficient and, even when I faced technical issues with my account, the CQI support team was prompt and helpful. It made me feel welcomed and truly valued.

Being part of CQI has further ignited my ambition. My next goal is to join IRCA as a certified lead auditor and continue to grow, both technically and strategically within the field. I’m also working on broader development goals to expand my knowledge across various quality systems and global compliance frameworks

What advice would you give to other quality practitioners based outside of Europe who are considering joining the CQI?

I would encourage them to pursue this path wholeheartedly. Quality is not just documentation or compliance; it is innovation, transformation and a force for good. Our region needs more quality advocates, and I believe that those who start now will become the pioneers of a new era.

Thank you to the CQI for recognising the voices of professionals around the world. I am honoured to be one of them.