By Calbert Kael
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it is essential to recognize the achievements of women in various industries and the challenges they face in pursuing their professional goals. Dr. Leen Kawas, a prominent figure in the biotechnology sector, has made significant strides in her career and now serves as the Managing General Partner at Propel Bio Partners. Before this role, she spent seven years as the CEO of Athira Pharma, where she successfully managed several drug development projects, executed the firm’s IPO in September 2020, and secured over $400 million in capital investments.
Drawing from her extensive experience, Dr. Kawas highlights women’s unique strengths in leadership positions, such as excellent communication skills, high emotional intelligence, flexibility, and resilience. These attributes enable women to foster inclusive and innovative cultures within their organizations, leading to higher returns and more effective problem-solving.
However, even though women make upke up half of the workforce in the biotechnology industry, they still need to be represented in leadership roles. A survey conducted by the BIO trade group in January 2020 revealed that among 100 biotechnology firms, women held only 30 percent of executive positions and a mere 18 percent of Board of Directors seats. Moreover, approximately 80 percent of the companies’ CEOs were men, with nearly 90 percent being white men.
Dr. Kawas offers valuable guidance and strategies to help women navigate the obstacles they face in male-dominated industries. She emphasizes the importance of pushing back against gender bias by speaking out about visible discrepancies and advocating for increased representation of women in leadership roles. Women can help create a more equitable and inclusive workplace by challenging the status quo and raising awareness.
In addition to advocating for change, Dr. Kawas encourages women to prioritize their professional development and self-advocacy. She advises women to stay informed about industry trends, pursue relevant educational opportunities, and take on challenging projects that showcase their abilities. By consistently enhancing their skills and highlighting their achievements, women can build a solid personal brand and position themselves as valuable assets to their organizations.
Finally, Dr. Kawas stresses the significance of networking and mentorship in empowering women to succeed in their careers. Attending industry conferences and engaging in networking events can help women forge valuable connections and build relationships that can lead to collaborations and career growth. Seeking mentors who can provide guidance, support, and accountability can also be instrumental in helping women overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
As we work towards a future where every woman has an equal opportunity to realize her professional aspirations, it is crucial to follow the strategies outlined by Dr. Leen Kawas and champion greater gender equality in leadership positions. By empowering women to develop their skills, advocate for themselves, and build strong networks, we can help create a more inclusive and equitable future in the biotechnology industry and beyond.
