Can you share your career path with us, including key milestones and challenges you faced along the way?
I studied sciences in university because I naively wanted to change the world and I got good marks in science courses in school. I did my undergrad and truthfully could never imagine that someone would ever hire me so the easiest thing was to keep going to school. After undergrad, I did an MSc in Nutritional Biochemistry and then PhD in Experimental Pathology. I did not have science role models and did not know what kinds of jobs existed in the industry. As well, the biotech world was just evolving when I went to school so I did not have a good understanding of what that could offer me. I ended up getting my “break” via a family connection, and I always remember my good fortune and try to help others get breaks too.
In the early stages of your career, how did you manage being a young mother and travelling consultant?
Becoming a mother was a bit of a surprise for me, but by the time I finished my PhD, I had three sons. I encourage people to have kids early and roll with the punches. You can do it. Don’t overthink it. I believe that it is good for kids to see mothers working, engaged and happy. I was lucky that the father of my boys was present, nurturing and a true parenting partner. I also had lots of grandparent support.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to reach leadership positions?
Work on your confidence, be aware of inner naysayer voices and the artificial limitations you put on yourself. Apply for jobs and promotions (you won’t get them if you don’t try). Do “stretch” assignments; they give you a chance to do something new, challenge yourself and prove yourself. If you work for a big company, take advantage of every educational opportunity, course or conference offered. “Work” LinkedIn, participate in industry associations, start new initiatives in your company and outside.
How do you approach decision-making and problem-solving?
My gut drives most of my decisions but it is important to know as many facts as possible first, before you make an educated choice. Make sure you put yourself in the shoes of the other party involved too to ensure that most decisions are win-win.
Can you share a valuable lesson you’ve learned from a mistake or failure in your career?
I have made many mistakes and had many failures. The greatest was my lack of confidence to apply for better jobs along the way. The best way to learn something new is to jump in. I should have jumped in more often. Key challenge: not knowing what kinds of jobs existed in my field – lesson learned = find out your choices.
Can you discuss a time when you had to navigate a difficult situation or conflict, and how you handled it?
The best example I can think of a difficult situation is when I disclosed too much information during a business discussion. I resolved this with honesty and apologized to the offended parties immediately. Being “open and honest” is an appreciated trait. I find it helps to “sleep on it” when you have a big problem and gather more data to make an informed choice. The solution sometimes becomes obvious given time and data.
What are the most important qualities or skills that you believe contribute to effective leadership?
Listening to other people and telling people the truth (in a nice way). Finding out what is going on at all parts of the business and asking people who actually live with the problems to suggest solutions. And as simple as it sounds, giving people the time of day.
Can you share a memorable success story or achievement from your career?
I was happy when I found out that one of the technologies that was invented by a portfolio company actually helped a relative...my husband ended up with a stent in his heart which was invented by the company called Angiotech.
What role do mentorship and sponsorship play in supporting the career growth of young women?
The benefit of mentorship is huge at all stages of your career but guidance can come from all sorts of places. Your mentors don’t just need to be just women and don’t just need to be women in business. There are wise people in all parts of your life; family, friends and random people that you sit beside on planes. I hope that all young people can enjoy opportunity to have mentorship. If you are seeking a mentor, make sure to attend industry association networking events. Never sit at a luncheon table with people you know. Be open and friendly; wisdom can come when you least expect it.
What legacy do you hope to leave at the end of your career?
I hope my work will have contributed a tiny bit to the development of therapies that impact the lives of many. I also hope that people I have mentored are generous with their time with the next crop of young people seeking their “break”.
