A multi-part series looking at colleagues who have benefited from our ability to offer global mobility, featuring Paul Chilo, Senior Director, Governance, Risk & Compliance; Data Protection Officer. SOPHiAN since May 2022.
What's your background, Paul?
I’ve been working in compliance & risk management for 12 years, both in consulting and across several industries.
Over time, I realized I wanted to specialise in a sector where data management is truly central to the company’s mission. That’s what ultimately led me toward healthcare and set the stage for my move to SOPHiA GENETICS.
Can you tell us about your time at SOPHiA?
I joined SOPHiA GENETICS because I wanted to contribute to something that genuinely matters. The mission to democratize data‑driven medicine immediately resonated with me. For me, protecting patient data isn’t just a regulatory requirement — it’s a responsibility at the core of our work. That alignment of values made SOPHiA GENETICS the right place for me.
Being from the Basque Country, it was also meaningful to join a global company with a strong presence in my home region, allowing me to stay connected to my roots while contributing to an international mission.
My time at SOPHiA GENETICS has been incredibly dynamic. My role quickly expanded beyond traditional compliance into risk management, privacy, information security, and sustainability. The company gives you the space to evolve and grow new skills which is something I really appreciate.
So, you moved from Switzerland to the US? Can you tell us about your story?
After three years working at the headquarters in Switzerland — an incredible experience that helped me build strong connections across the company — I felt ready for a new chapter. I wanted a change of scenery, and I was also interested in the opportunity to work more closely with our U.S. Colleagues, so started to explore a move to Boston.
My Leaders supported the idea right from the beginning, even allowing me to try it out for six months before fully transitioning. Thanks to HR and the broader team, the move and visa process were smooth and stress‑free. What made the transition easy was knowing that, if things didn’t work out, I could always return to Switzerland or even to the Basque Country and the company would support that!
That flexibility is one of the strengths of SOPHiA GENETICS — you’re part of a global team, and you can build your career across different regions and cultures. It also makes collaboration deeper and more meaningful than if everything happened through a screen.
What comes next for you with SOPHiA?
Looking ahead, there are many exciting things on the horizon. The company is growing quickly, especially across North America and other key regions, and that growth brings new challenges and opportunities. I’m eager to be part of that momentum. One of the things I value most about SOPHiA GENETICS is that you never fall into routine — there’s always something new to build, improve, or rethink. I’m ready to take on whatever comes next and continue evolving with the company.
What advice would you give for someone considering a career with us?
My advice is to come with curiosity and an openness to grow. SOPHiA GENETICS moves fast, and that’s what makes it exciting. You’ll never fall into routine.
If you enjoy tackling new challenges, collaborating across teams and regions, and contributing to a mission with real impact, you’ll thrive here. Bring your ideas, be ready to learn, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. The company gives you space to evolve, often in ways you don’t expect.
- Boston
- People
- Relocation
- Switzerland
