Building a Career from Within: A Q&A with Wendy Alexandre Peper

What role did you start in, and how has your career evolved since joining BD? 

“I joined BD in 2017 as a Process and Maintenance Engineering Intern, where I gained hands-on experience in manufacturing operations, performance metrics, cost-reduction projects, and equipment reliability. 

In 2020, I moved into a Process Engineer role, leading Lean Six Sigma initiatives and supporting assembly line performance. In 2022, I was promoted to Production Supervisor, overseeing end-to-end production operations and cross-functional teams across Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, and People. 

At the beginning of 2026, I was promoted to BD Excellence Manager and relocated from Brazil to the United States, expanding my scope to drive operational excellence, capability building, and continuous improvement across a broader footprint. 

What opportunities helped you grow into new roles?

“The opportunities that helped me grow were strongly connected to BD's commitment to development and trust in its people. 

Throughout my journey, BD invested in both my technical and leadership development through structured training programs, continuous learning opportunities, and support for my education. 

I was given opportunities to lead projects and gradually expand my responsibilities, which helped me build confidence, strengthen my skills, and demonstrate my ability to deliver results. 

Even at times when I was not yet 100% prepared for the next step, my leaders believed in me and gave me opportunities to grow. They dedicated time to coaching and mentoring so that everything could be possible.” 

How has BD supported your development and internal mobility? 

“Since the beginning of my career, BD has consistently invested in my development through training, education, and continuous learning opportunities. 

As my responsibilities grew, so did the opportunities. Through consistent results and development, I was given opportunities to broaden my scope beyond a single manufacturing site, share best practices with other plants, and learn from different operations. These experiences have significantly expanded my perspective and professional growth.” 

When did you realize BD was a place where you could build a long-term career? 

“From my very first day at BD, I felt that it was a place where I wanted to build my career. 

Over time, with all the opportunities, support, and continuous development that BD has provided, that feeling only became stronger. 

The environment at BD is exceptional. People genuinely support and help one another. Teamwork and mutual support are part of the culture, and that environment has helped me grow professionally while also building meaningful relationships with colleagues. 

Another important factor is BD's genuine concern for employee well-being and family. The company understands that people perform at their best when they feel supported both professionally and personally.” 

What advice would you give to associates interested in exploring new career paths at BD? 

“My advice would be to give your best every day and truly commit to the company. 

Be willing to go the extra mile, support others, and help your colleagues whenever you can because collaboration makes a real difference. 

At the same time, invest in your own development. Stay curious, seek feedback, build new skills, and remain open to new experiences. Over time, that mindset leads to consistent results, and those results naturally open doors to new career opportunities at BD.”