Michelle Murphy

Biography

  Michelle joined AMAG in 2013 as a member of the legal team. She has advanced in her role since joining the company, having been promoted to her current position. Learn more in our Q&A session with Michelle. Tell us a little bit about yourself. Where did you grow up? I grew up in the midwest bordering the Mississippi River between Minnesota and Wisconsin. I moved east during high school and stayed because the winters were warmer. What is your educational background? I have a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration, paralegal studies from Rivier College in Nashua New Hampshire (one of only two American Bar Association-approved paralegal studies programs at that time). Later, I completed work for a Master of Science certificate in legal administration from Eastern Michigan University. What brought you into your field? I was introduced to the partner of a small boutique law firm where a friend worked. That position was a wonderful introduction to the diverse legal field, but within a few years I realized that corporations offered more autonomy and opportunities for paralegals and moved in-house. I have not regretted my decision once, as being in-house is rarely boring and offered me opportunities to work in varied specialties—such as employment immigration, affirmative action, corporate, intellectual property, export compliance and now pharma compliance—that a law firm structure couldn’t provide. When did you first know that you wanted to work in biotech? I didn’t. I wish I could say moving into biotech was part of my master career plan, but I was fortunate to receive a call from a recruiter familiar with my background, who knew I enjoyed small entrepreneurial companies and thought AMAG would be a great fit. What do you most enjoy about your current job? I enjoy many things about my current job, starting with the people that I get to work with. AMAG has a diverse culture of intelligent, fun people, who are encouraged by a leadership team that rewards innovation and improvement. Since joining the compliance team within Legal Affairs I’ve really enjoyed taking a greater role in compliance reporting as well as monitoring and training. The latter has allowed me to welcome every new employee to the organization and learn about their unique roles. What would you most love to be doing in 10 years? If I have the luxury of retiring early I’d love to assist children with special needs obtain the services they need, either as a CASA volunteer or educational advocate. Otherwise, as AMAG expands, I imagine a greater role supporting the development, implementation and management of the company’s compliance program that is business-focused but consistent with best practices and applicable laws. Tell us about some of your interests/hobbies outside of AMAG. I spend as much time as I can with my family, but I try to golf as time permits. What’s something most people don’t know about you? I am a closet computer chess player. Hardly win, but stubborn enough to keep trying.  

Research Interest