Phenomenex celebrates 30 years of “breaking with tradition”

Phenomenex, the company that has been redefining the field of separation sciences since its launch in 1982, proudly marks its 30th anniversary in 2012. Starting with nothing more than enthusiasm and a master’s degree in architecture, President and CEO Fasha Mahjoor grew the scientific company from a one-man operation out of his garage to over 700 employees and a network of partners in 95 countries in only three decades. Today, Phenomenex has earned its spot as the number one HPLC column manufacturer in the world and has diversified into four other related separation science fields, simultaneously acquiring top market positions in each. The company boasts some of the most prestigious technology and business awards in the industry and has secured its reputation as an innovator and trusted partner.

“I am humbled by my colleagues who have worked tirelessly around the clock all these years to bring about 30 years of progress, they are true champions. All the credit should go to them”, says Mr. Mahjoor. “Moreover, in light of our considerable growth I am delighted that we continue to support our customers, employees, and so many charitable organizations in such a significant manner, part and parcel of our mission statement.”

To honor its 30th birthday, Phenomenex is hosting a myriad of celebrations on June 22nd and 23rd in the 15 countries where it has its own subsidiary offices, with festivities both indoors and out. Open houses will be held, inviting customers, family and friends to explore the company’s unique product portfolio, inspiring decor, and to give them an opportunity to mingle with the employees and experience firsthand the unusually vibrant culture that makes the company stand apart from the rest. Karina Rojas, a longtime customer of Phenomenex says she “loves how much of an innovative, fun and charitable company [Phenomenex] can be. I can imagine [its] employees LOVING to go to work and NOT wanting to leave!!” And if you ask the team, they would agree.

“We sometimes lose sight of the fact that scientists are using our products to develop novel drugs which may ultimately improve the quality of people’s lives and make the world a better place.” Jeff Layne, Ph.D and HPLC Product Manager explains, “We don’t take this responsibility lightly, but maybe it’s good that we don’t always focus on that – I mean, if we took ourselves too seriously, we wouldn’t be able to have so much fun lobbing water balloons at the President of the company!”

Phenomenex was founded on a mission to promote the growth, prosperity, and well-being of those they serve – their customers, their employees, and humanity. This core philosophy has guided the company since day one, and will remain its beacon for the next 30 years. When asked if he would do anything differently, Mr. Mahjoor replied, “Yes, perhaps. But frankly, I’d gladly do it all over again.”

Fasha Mahjoor is an architect, businessman, philanthropist, visionary, and founder and CEO of the Phenomenex Companies.