Dr. Leen Kawas Shares Insights on Women’s Leadership Attributes and Overcoming Industry Obstacles
Dr. Leen Kawas, a prominent figure in the biotechnology sector, has made significant strides in her career. As the Managing General Partner at Propel Bio Partners and the former CEO of Athira Pharma, she has successfully navigated the challenges women face in leadership roles within male-dominated industries. During her seven-year tenure at Athira Pharma, Dr. Kawas managed multiple drug development projects, executed the company’s IPO in September 2020, and secured over $400 million in capital investments.
Drawing from her extensive experience, Dr. Kawas highlights the unique qualities that women bring to leadership positions. She emphasizes that thinfluentialive female leaders often possess excellent communication skills, high emotional intelligence, flexibility, and resilience. These attributes enable them to foster inclusive and cohesive workplace cultures, build positive team relationships, and handle multiple responsibilities while adapting to challenging situations.
Dr. Kawas also points to research demonstrating the tangible benefits of having women in leadership roles. Companies with women at the helm or as part of the executive team often experience higher returns, more inclusive cultures, and a distinct approach to innovation. By leveraging their unique perspectives and skills, women in leadership positions can drive positive change and contribute to the overall success of their organizations.
However, although women make up nearly half of the workforce in the biotechnology industry, there needs to be more women-led firms. A survey conducted by the BIO trade group in January 2020 revealed that among 100 biotechnology companies, women held only 30 percent of executive positions and a mere 18 percent of Board of Directors seats. Furthermore, approximately four-fifths of the companies’ CEOs were men, with nearly 90 percent being white men.
Dr. Kawas offers valuable guidance to help women overcome these obstacles and achieve their professional goals. She encourages women to push back against gender bias by speaking out about visible discrepancies and campaigning for increased representation of women in leadership roles. Additionally, she advises women to prioritize skills development by staying informed about industry trends, pursuing relevant educational opportunities, and completing challenging projects that showcase their abilities.
Finally, Dr. Kawas emphasizes the importance of networking and mentorship in navigating the challenges faced by women in male-dominated industries. 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. Seekiut mentors who can provide guidance, support, and accountability can also be instrumental in helping women overcome obstacles and position themselves for success.
As we work towards a global workplace where every woman has an equal opportunity to realize her dreams, it is crucial to follow the strategies outlined by Dr. Leen Kawas and advocate for greater gender equality in leadership positions. By raising awareness, developing their skills, and building strong networks, women can help drive change and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in the biotechnology indusond.
