WOMEN IN PHARMA that stem from the efforts and actions within my own control, and which hopefully help to set a path for others around me. What has been your greatest accomplishment, and what made it particularly meaningful to you? Growing up in a small town steeped in tradition, I learned the importance of earning my parents’ recognition. My proudest achievement is that they have seen my professional growth firsthand, as I strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others along my journey. In addition to this personal motivation, my sense of professional accomplishment has most often come following various significant inspections and audits. I take immense pride in being able to perform my job effectively while meeting and exceeding the expectations of customers, business partners, and regulators. Some of this accomplishment has stemmed from the ability to say “no” when needed – not something that’s always easy, but essential when safety, performance and compliance are at stake. Staying true to that unwavering principle is made easier by being able to build relationships and collaborate with team members with diverse cultural backgrounds - ensuring we achieve remarkable outcomes together. Who inspired you early in your career, and what advice would you give to young women aspiring to follow in your footsteps? I have had the privilege of working and collaborating with remarkable women throughout my career. Not long after 9/11 I had a role based in New York City. Many of my colleagues were grappling with personal losses from that day, including my boss who had lost her brother. Her incredible resilience, unwavering professionalism, and optimistic, solution-focused mindset were not only inspiring then but continue to motivate me today. Growing up in the 1990s, in a region scarred by long-lasting wars, I envisioned a better world—one in which hard work and knowledge earn the respect and rewards they deserve. My mother was a big inspiration in that - she taught me the power of strength and determination in the face of the challenges around us. The fear was palpable, and studying by candlelight in a cold home became my reality. But I refused to accept this as my fate. I was determined to make a better world a reality, not just for myself, but to make my mother proud of the life I would build. My advice to young women aspiring to follow in my footsteps is the following: be unapologetically yourself; refuse to compromise your values for the sake of fitting in; commit to lifelong learning; boldly step outside your comfort zone; establish a compelling vision and set ambitious goals; stand firm and never allow anyone to disrespect you; own your success and exude confidence; uplift and champion other women; share your knowledge generously; take risks; and keep an “attagirl” list to remind you of your incredible achievements during moments of self-doubt, because we all have it. Have you observed any barriers to career progression in the pharmaceutical field, particularly around leadership roles or international exposure? We all have unique aspirations, and it’s essential to recognize the specific nature of each individual’s drive and ambition for career advancement. Not all high achievers are eager to take on leadership or line management roles, share the same work ethic, or align on every issue, especially in positions that involve international engagement Understanding these differences can help harness diverse talents more effectively, and we can foster an environment where everyone feels empowered to strive for the next step in their careers. I firmly believe that the barriers we face in advancing our careers, particularly in leadership roles and gaining international exposure, often originate from our own selfdoubts and fears. These feelings are partly influenced by the environment we operate in and the experiences we encounter. By recognizing and addressing both internal and external obstacles, we can unlock our full potential and seize opportunities for growth. In today’s digital age, embracing our human connections, strengths and vulnerabilities is more crucial to achieving success for ourselves and the businesses we are part of than ever before. These fundamental softer skills define us, allowing us to connect on a deeper level and navigate the complexities of the modern workplace more effectively. How important is it to educate and mentor emerging female leaders in pharma, and what role do you play in that? It is essential that we increase the presence of women in leadership roles within the pharmaceutical industry. Young female professionals who have chosen this fulfilling career must receive robust support, education, and mentorship. As we advance into a new era of industrial digitization, it is imperative for female leaders and professionals to excel in crafting comprehensive, longterm strategies that demand bold, innovative solutions. 39 DAILY NEWS CPHI 2025 FRANKFURT DAY 1 | 28th October 2025
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