Case Study: Caught by Surprise

Stigma Pharmaceuticals is a market leader in the selling of over-the counter

drugs, capsules, injections and prescription medicines for cardiovascular and lung
infections. It is also proud in taking care of its stakeholders (employees, suppliers,
board of directors, and customers). To date, it has already received man
recognition from various award-giving bodies. These accomplishments helped in
catapulting the company to becoming one of the most trusted pharmaceutical firms
in the country. It is also an advocate of the “Green Environment” as it tries to
monitor its own waste and to ensure that it complies with the standards set by the
authorities in its two plant sites in Cavite and Batangas.
Ben always takes his coffee break with Aldo Cruz, the finance manager.
Ben, the HR Manager, was surprised at what he heard from Aldo.
“Hey Ben, we are really excited with what Mr. Tomas told us in our recent
meeting!”,Aldo blurted out.
Mr. Tomas is the chief executive officer of Stigma Pharmaceuticals.
Ben, still puzzled, asked,”What was taken up during your meeting?”
“The expansion in Laguna ! It will be our biggest plant. Well, you will really be
busy the coming weeks!”,Aldo said excitedly.
Ben went back to his office and kept on thinking about what Aldo had said.
Specifically, this statement keep flashing through his mind : Recruitment will start
in a few weeks!”
Several things began to bother him.
“I didn’t know about the expansion. Recruitment will start very soon! Should I
go to Mr. Tomas and ask him what exactly is the expansion plan all about?”Ben
asked himself.
Questions:
1. What is the involvement of the HR Department, particularly in HR planning
regarding the expansion?
2. What should Ben do with the proposed expansion?
3. What should have been done prior to the meeting on the proposed
expansion?
4. What should be done so that nobody will be caught by surprise in the future?