Women are now leaving the workforce at four times the rate of men. What needs to be done to alleviate this?
Many women voluntarily left the workforce in the past year due to a lack/uncertainty of in-person schooling and childcare, and I think we’ll see a return to “normalcy” in those areas over the coming months that may result in a boomerang effect — especially with so many companies embracing workplace flexibility going forward. Beyond that: paid parental leave, pay equity and affordable childcare are a few important areas in which the U.S. continues to lag behind other countries.
Who was your mentor and what are you now doing to send the elevator back down?
I never really had a mentor in the business world, unfortunately, and many times felt like I had to fight a lot of battles without a blueprint or support. Being in the position where I am now — as a leader in the People & Culture space, crafting and shaping our company’s policies — is one way I can contribute on a daily basis to help ensure that other women have smoother paths climbing the ranks than I did.
What is your golden rule at work?
“Always make it better.” And my personal motto is a Benjamin Franklin quote: “Energy and persistence conquer all things.”
How have you coped with the unique challenges of the past 12 months?
Running is my therapy: I feel fortunate to have remained healthy enough to still get my weekly miles in. It’s also an activity my 18-year-old son and I have been able to enjoy together — especially bittersweet as he heads off to college in the fall.
What are the first things you plan to do when the pandemic ends?
Travel! Even a business trip at this point would be exciting!
From the August 01, 2021 Issue of MM+M - Medical Marketing and Media
