The Healthcare Industry is fast-paced…and so is the life of its executives. The industry has seen an increase in female executives over the years.

We introduce Renee Connolly, the Head of Global Communications at MilliporeSigma, one of the largest life sciences companies.

She shares her wisdom for aspiring female executives and healthcare workers below.

The adage “the only constant in life is change” feels especially true this year everywhere I turn.

Life always throws curveballs that challenge us to adapt and adjust. While 2020 may be a standout, more than 20 years in the healthcare and life science industry has taught me to navigate my fair share of change. It hasn’t always been seamless, but I believe a few qualities have allowed me to succeed (and, if I’m being honest, survive) throughout my career.

Be a continuous learner. This year has been filled with more reflection and education than any I can remember. I rarely claim to be expert on a subject, so I read, ask and listen. I surround myself with people who are knowledgeable in areas that I am not. 

I also bring my own perspective and knowledge to the table. I’m no scientist, but I can communicate the value of scientific work to any audience. This give and take of expertise strengthens both my own understanding and ability to lead.

Trust data, but don’t ignore your gut. I value a data-driven and well-researched approach to tactics. I ask hard questions and want to understand the full impact of any work I set out to do. But there are also times when I need to trust my gut – because sometimes there is no data and no clear answer. 

Regardless of the approach, I am not afraid to think big and get creative to execute projects effectively and impactfully. I may be more right-brained myself, but I lean into the measured approach of my left-brained colleagues to create powerful work from a shared vision. 

Collaborative competitor. I’m an athlete and always bring my best as if it is game day – that’s been true for as long as I can remember. I carry that mentality into the business world with a strong understanding that I won’t accomplish much without working alongside others.

As much as I want to execute my own ideas, I also want to be challenged. I count on my teammates to bring their A-game, push me to bring mine and work side-by-side to elevate one another. If we all strive to do and be better, no one loses. 

Memorable moments always. It’s easy to forget how important small gestures can be in bringing joy to those around you, both personally and professionally. From celebrating co-workers for even the most mundane of milestones to sending a friend a handwritten note just to say hello, these seemingly small moments give us energy – energy that helps us get through the next big project, life goal or challenge. 

Not to mention, on a personal note, making the most of these memorable moments gives me happiness. We rely on one another to celebrate these positive instances in each other’s lives and I find it’s always worth pausing to create that together.

Renee Connolly is the global head of Communications and Business Markets / Services at MilliporeSigma, and a board member of the Massachusetts Conference for Women, the Home for Little Wanderers and the Mass Women’s Forum. She is a past recipient of the Working Mother of the Year award from Working Mother Magazine and has launched MilliporeSigma’s SPARK™ global volunteer program and signature Curiosity Labs™ program

Her most cherished professional experience was when she spearheaded the communication strategy for the $17 billion acquisition of chemical giant Sigma-Aldrich — marking the largest acquisition in her company’s history and one of the largest in the Life Science sector.