Tommaso Corio’s journey with BioMarin began without a second thought, his conviction inspired by a belief in the company’s purpose and a desire to contribute to its mission.   

“I accepted the role without hesitation. Sometimes you just know; it’s almost instinctive,” says Tommaso, who is based in his home country of Italy. “From the first conversation, the recruiter and my future manager created a strong connection and explained what BioMarin stands for: putting patients first, especially children, and working to improve quality of life for families.”

We interviewed Tommaso, Operations Manager for Western Europe and Canada, as part of our series highlighting “The DNA of BioMarin,” our people. Inspired by the four bases of DNA – A (adenine), T (thymine), C (cytosine) and G (guanine) – by asking employees to reflect on the role that Aspiration, Translation, Connection and Gratitude play in their everyday work. 

Read on to learn more about Tommaso, his career growth and why his belief in BioMarin’s purpose has only grown stronger. 

ASPIRATION
How did you get your start in the biopharma industry? What do you aspire to accomplish through your work at BioMarin and in your career?

My journey began with a deep curiosity about the human body and a desire to break away from the family tradition of civil engineering. I initially studied pharmaceutical chemistry and technology at university, and quickly realized that while the laboratory is fascinating, it wasn’t where I saw myself long-term. Science is amazing, but I understood that spending my career solely focused on research wasn’t fully aligned with who I am. I wanted to be closer to patient impact. 

Driven by this goal, I pursued a master’s degree in pharmaceutical marketing and management. This led me to BioMarin, which would define my professional path. 

I applied for and ultimately accepted a marketing operations internship in Eastern Europe – my first step into the professional world. I believed in BioMarin so much that I relocated from my small seaside town to Milan, near the Italian office, and accepted two internship extensions. After one year and eight months as an intern, I became a full-time employee on Jan. 1, 2025, in Dynamic Market Operations for Eastern Europe, and have since transitioned to a role supporting commercial operations for Western Europe and Canada. 

My aspirations are to drive operational excellence to help get BioMarin’s medicines to the patients and families depending on us, as well as to continue growing my career in a global, dynamic environment. 

TRANSLATION
How do you hope your work will translate into impact for the patient communities BioMarin is working to support?

My sense of purpose is reinforced daily, knowing my contributions help patients access life-changing therapies. By focusing on forecasting, supply chain updates, and sharing insights throughout the organization, I know my efforts are having a positive impact. 

A recent congress in Portugal was a significant event for me because it was the first time I had the opportunity to meet patients face to face. In that moment, it was never more clear to me that we make a difference by providing options and, oftentimes, a better quality of life for these extraordinary people.

CONNECTION
What role does connection play at BioMarin?

Connection is central to my experience at BioMarin. My roles have enabled daily interaction with colleagues from different countries and cultures, broadening my perspective and helping me develop a truly international mindset. These relationships foster collaboration and mutual respect, enabling us to work more effectively and support patients and their families. Each new team has welcomed me, making every transition feel like joining a new family. 

Leaving my previous manager, mentor and a close-knit team when I took on my current role wasn’t easy, but I trusted the BioMarin process and believed in myself. I began building relationships with new teams and countries, never imagining what a great fit it would become. My current manager quickly became a key reference point, and strong relationships were formed almost immediately. 

GRATITUDE
Tell us about something you’re grateful for in your career, and why.

I am grateful for the opportunities BioMarin has provided, including the chance to learn from two incredible teams and managers who became like family. The company’s culture of support and openness has helped me develop an international perspective and lasting relationships. From day one, I have met people willing to help, support and collaborate. Cross-functional teamwork and mutual respect allow us to work more effectively. 

Above all, I appreciate the trust and flexibility of colleagues and the chance to contribute to a company that truly puts patients first. 

Today, after almost four years at BioMarin, if you asked whether I would make the same choice again, my answer is even more confident: absolutely, yes.