Work with Lei Zi

How long have you been with BIOTRONIK, and what do you do here? 

I joined BIOTRONIK on November 1, 2017—initially as a Product Manager for Brady in China. Over time, my responsibilities have evolved, and today I work as a Marketing Manager in China. 

How did you first learn about BIOTRONIK? 

I first heard about BIOTRONIK while I was still working at Medtronic. Back then, many doctors spoke very highly of the reliability of BIOTRONIK products. BIOTRONIK Home Monitoring was also very popular in China, which further reinforced my impression of the company as an innovative one. 

What convinced you to join the company? 

I was specifically looking for a marketing position in the pacemaker industry, and BIOTRONIK really stood out. Among the major companies, it was the only one with its Chinese headquarters in Beijing—and staying in my hometown was important to me. 

That's why I waited for the right opportunity. Every time a new job opening was posted, I immediately checked to see if it was a good fit for me. When a marketing position finally opened up, I was thrilled to be invited for an interview. To me, it felt like the opportunity I'd been waiting for. 

What does a typical workday look like for you? 

I spend about two-thirds of my time in the office and one-third on business trips. At the office, I usually start my day with my task management tool, plan my tasks, and use the first two hours—when my mind is particularly clear—for strategic issues. For example, we are currently working with medical societies to disseminate recommendations for the safe use of MRI scans for patients with implanted cardiac devices. We're also currently preparing for the Haikou Pacemaker Summit and presenting our new product line internally. 

After that, I'll be overseeing the ongoing marketing projects: I check where coordination is needed, provide guidance, or help clear obstacles out of the way. I also have many cross-functional meetings—for example, with Regulatory Affairs regarding new approvals, with Government Affairs regarding tender requirements, or in regular discussions with the sales team. 

When traveling, I visit customers, support external conferences, or participate in our own initiatives. For example, we are currently working with professional societies to promote the “CIED Patients MRI Protocol Recommendations.” We’re also preparing for the Haikou Pacemaker Summit and introducing Amvia IQEPIC internally across all regions. 

What makes your work at BIOTRONIK special to you? 

I used to work for American companies. BIOTRONIK feels much more human to me. In my previous roles, I often felt like I was just a small cog in a big machine. Here, my opinion really counts. 

The organizational structure is flat and transparent. Even early in my career, I had access to important information. For example, the local CEO held meetings directly with employees, and we’re actively encouraged to voice our opinions. In China, there are quarterly town hall meetings where anyone can submit questions or suggestions anonymously. These are addressed and followed up on by the division managers. This openness made me feel valued right from the start. 

What surprises new colleagues most about your job? 

A new colleague in Marketing Support was surprised by how many meetings I have every day. For me, it's less about the number and more about the interaction: In my view, face-to-face conversations or video calls are significantly more efficient than text-based communication alone.  

What opportunities for professional growth have you experienced at BIOTRONIK? 

I’ve experienced many opportunities for professional development at BIOTRONIK—every step has helped me grow both professionally and personally. My career path took me from Product Manager to Senior Product Manager, followed by two years as Training & Education Manager, and finally to my current role as Marketing Manager. Looking back, every role has given me more self-confidence and sharpened my focus on what matters to me. 

In addition, BIOTRONIK has opened up international opportunities for me: visits to the headquarters in Germany, the APAC hub, factory tours, exchanges with European and U.S. experts, and hospital visits abroad. All of this has broadened my horizons and made me proud to represent our work on the international stage. 

What do you value most about your team or the company culture? 

I especially value the transparency and openness. The hierarchies are very flat—you can speak openly, even with senior leaders. I can express my thoughts in meetings, even if there are many formal levels between us. My manager encourages me to do so, and I, in turn, encourage my team to speak their minds directly. This culture builds trust and makes collaboration much easier. 

Is there anything that particularly inspires you, either at work or in your personal life? 

Outside of work, I enjoy the simple things: visiting exhibitions, strolling through the city, or going shopping with my family. These moments help me unwind and consciously spend time with the people who are important to me. 

What advice would you give to applicants who want to start at BIOTRONIK? 

If you have ideas and want to help improve patients’ lives, BIOTRONIK is the right place for you. Before applying, you should really think about what your day-to-day work will actually look like and whether it’s truly a good fit for you. 

I originally came from a sales background. Direct contact with young patients on cardiology wards was very emotionally taxing for me. That's why I decided to switch to marketing—that way, I can continue to make a difference, just in a different way.