Our Chair The Hon. Jaala Pulford welcomed everyone to the breakfast gathering, supporting and celebrating the ever-growing contribution of women in life sciences, in Australia and around the world.
Jaala reminded us that it’s time to seriously leverage the potential of Australia’s female scientists, researchers and entrepreneurs.
Special guests Genentech‘s Kate Liebelt and Bliss Bio Health‘s Gloria Vanderham spoke authentically about their experiences and shared their wisdom with some real-world advice.
If you’re not getting opportunities in your organisation and being passed over, strongly consider if it’s the right fit/role for you.
Leadership is about listening AND being brave enough to ask the tough questions. Even for feedback about your own performance.
Open doors for others, pass it on, don’t be a gatekeeper.
Be aware of the invisible pressure we put on ourselves.
Join networks so you can build a diverse board of advisors for your own career
Say yes to those extra curricular roles, they’re great growth opportunities (sometimes better than your paid roles!)
Focus goes where your energy goes – stay on track and don’t get distracted by internal detractors
It was a truly engaging session and we are delighted Kate and Gloria could find the time to join us during their busy BIO schedules.
Thanks to Margaret Jenkins MAICD and Global Pharma Solutions for supporting this important forum and adding her remarks. After spending 25 years in regulatory affairs with some of the largest global pharma companies, Margaret founded GPS, a bespoke consulting firm advising companies in the biotech and pharma sector bringing new products to market.
Thank you to Dr. Monika Emilia Richter, Partner McDermott Will & Emery, who generously hosted us at their offices. Monika noted that she’s seen an increase in the number of women ‘at the table’ in senior roles since her career began.
A big shout out to our National Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator for MTPConnect, and WA Life Sciences Innovation Hub, Dr Tracey Wilkinson and our Director Adelaide Intermediary Program, Dana Bell for leading this event. As a startup founder and director, Tracey also shared her reflections with the group on how to progress change.
A special mention goes out to ‘The Lead Candidate’ podcast hosted by Dr Simona Carbone, PhD, who joined our event It’s a podcast series that seeks to understand what qualities and experiences make a great leader in different fields of science.