Theravance Interview Questions
& Process

I had a phone interview for a Chemist position. The Senior Scientist didn't describe the job much, just that it involved organic chemistry synthesis. He asked basic questions and I tried to elaborate on my past roles. He was very tight-lipped about his company due to IP concerns, which I found odd since my work also involves IP that's publicly available. He wouldn't even discuss polymers, which is a key area for us. The call lasted 20 minutes. Afterwards, he asked me to create and email a PowerPoint presentation about my work. Given my BS degree and IP-focused experience, emailing a presentation that could potentially involve sensitive information was a no-go, especially since he hadn't even discussed the role or company with me. I passed on sending the material, though I understand it might be standard for out-of-state applicants.

I applied in April and had a phone interview with HR, then a phone and an in-person with the hiring manager. Next, I was supposed to talk to two of the hiring manager's direct reports, one with 1.5 years of experience, and then do in-person interviews with senior management in San Francisco and the group's VP. The day before talking to the direct reports, I got travel arrangements and an interview agenda for San Francisco. After talking to the two direct reports, the hiring manager emailed me late that night to cancel my trip and wish me luck. I replied, wondering why I went from being someone she "would place in front of her boss" to no longer being considered, and she said her boss put the position on hold, which seems unlikely since it was advertised again right after. This job has been open for 9 months.

Applied online and had a quick phone screen. Then, went for a half-day onsite interview a week later. Met 12 people over 6 hours. Some interviewers were rude, and the hiring manager wrongly accused me of faking my resume and credentials, which was super disrespectful. She had references she could have checked, but still didn't believe me. I wouldn't recommend this company.

The company paid for my flight and hotel from LA to South SF for a full day of interviews. I met with about 10-12 executives. The interview process was efficient, although the schedule changed last minute to accommodate the VP. Everyone was knowledgeable and affable, and it was a welcoming environment.