A Wonderful Sense of Perspective

When Fasha Mahjoor started Phenomenex over 33 years ago, he envisaged a colorful, high-energy culture that would differentiate the company from all others. His architectural roots allowed him to build an aesthetically pleasing, environmentally conscious, safe and efficient space, which included gyms, game rooms and many other benefits long before such ideas became mainstream. Employee welfare, promoting from within, and cross training to provide advancement opportunities are still top priorities, and Mahjoor has always actively supported the passions of his staff through a deep commitment to philanthropy, sport, the environment, and continued education. Indeed, to attract the brightest and best people – and retain them – Mahjoor knew he had to place a genuine focus on their welfare, that of their families, and on humanity.

Today, the company still provides unique benefits to its employees, including stipends for adoptive parents and staff adventure trips. But it also provides paid time off for volunteer work and on-site philanthropic events.

When Fasha Mahjoor started Phenomenex over 33 years ago, he envisaged a colorful, high-energy culture that would differentiate the company from all others. His architectural roots allowed him to build an aesthetically pleasing, environmentally conscious, safe and efficient space, which included gyms, game rooms and many other benefits long before such ideas became mainstream. Employee welfare, promoting from within, and cross training to provide advancement opportunities are still top priorities, and Mahjoor has always actively supported the passions of his staff through a deep commitment to philanthropy, sport, the environment, and continued education. Indeed, to attract the brightest and best people – and retain them – Mahjoor knew he had to place a genuine focus on their welfare, that of their families, and on humanity.

Today, the company still provides unique benefits to its employees, including stipends for adoptive parents and staff adventure trips. But it also provides paid time off for volunteer work and on-site philanthropic events.

Fostering the right company culture

The Phenomenex company mission statement reads, “…it is our responsibility and foremost mission to promote the growth, prosperity, and well-being of those we serve – our customers, our employees, and humanity.” Over two decades ago, Mahjoor launched a global Red Cross bone marrow drive – Save Simon – to help a colleague with leukemia. It was sadly too late for Simon, but the drive has since ignited a flame within the company – a deep and emotional commitment to philanthropy that continues to grow.

At Phenomenex, ‘giving back’ is a part of daily life – and all employees must share the same passion. Sponsored events are held on-site during working hours so that everyone can participate. And, each of its companies around the globe have active Philanthropy Groups who plan, organize, and execute volunteer activities.

Looking after Mother Earth

For Phenomenex, reducing its carbon footprint, recycling, and saving resources (especially water at its HQ in California!) is taken very seriously. About a decade ago, Phenomenex strived to reduce the environmental impact of its products and now uses 100 percent recycled paper, soy-based inks, and post-consumer recycled fibers in reduced amounts of packaging.

And by setting up a recycling program with its neighbors – the Switzer Learning Center for Autistic Children – Phenomenex not only gets to clean up its act, but it also gives young adults work experience and the opportunity to be environmental guardians, which they love; a real win-win.

Getting hands dirty – in a good way

Phenomenex India is deeply committed to the Cheers Foundation Orphanage, a non-profit organization that provides shelter, food, education, good health and a lovable family atmosphere to underprivileged children. The Phenomenex team is hands-on with the children, hosting gatherings, field trips, and learning activities. The company also provides financial support for food, tuition and books, shoes and clothing.

In Europe, Phenomenex Italy, Stop Hunger Now Italia Onlus (SHNIO) and Phenomenex Inc. have made it their mission to feed hungry children in developing countries. SHNIO has made an astounding 780,000 meals, giving hope and a brighter future to communities in Africa. And since “Save Simon”, Phenomenex USA has continuously hosted on-site blood drives and raised money for global disaster relief efforts, and now also supports a program called Ready When the Time Comes, which trains volunteers to respond to local disasters.

What’s next? Mahjoor’s City Three Peaks challenge (see article), a London-to-Paris Cycling Challenge, and Happy Hats for Kids in Hospitals, a project that aims to bring joy to children with cancer and other life threatening diseases.

Phenomenex truly strives to set the best example. Imagine if all companies focused just as hard on being responsible global citizens...