Meet Member
Nicole Serena
What is the biggest challenge facing women leaders in our industry today and how do you overcome it?
I think currently one of the biggest challenges we face is work/life balance during this global crisis. It was a challenge before and now even more. Balancing family, work, extended family, friends and finding time for yourself when everyone is home is incredibly challenging. How do we overcome it? We need to create our networks and reach out for support and help. It is hard to admit that we need support and help. Even if it is someone just to reach out to and see a friendly face or hear a friendly voice, or someone who can mentor you and help you find balance with the added stresses going on today and into the future. Take a break each day, even if it is 5 minutes and get outside, clear your mind and recharge.
What is the leadership/business framework you use most often to help you lead effectively?
I like the “High Impact Leadership Framework” that encompasses the following:
Driven by Persons/Community
Develop Capability
Shape Culture
Create Vision and Will
Deliver Results
Engage Across Boundaries
What trend in the pharmaceutical and life sciences industry doesn't get enough attention?
The evolution of who our customer really is, and how it is changing from a physician focused platform to one that encompasses many customers, including patients, payors (Private and Public) and other healthcare practitioners (Pharmacists, Nurses and more). There is a need to change our structures and models faster than most are doing, especially in light of the current global crisis.
What do you do to maintain your own growth and development?
I belong to a Mastermind group of leaders and try to work with a mentor. As you grow and develop, you will find that your mentors may change as you change. That is ok, and being a mentor is also a way you can grow and develop.
What resources do you recommend for those strengthening their leadership abilities?
Seek daily inspiration. I get the Harvard Business Review Management Tip of the Day in my email every morning, which is a great way to start each day with something to read and learn.
Have a book or two at your fingertips. I often refer to 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – Steven Covey
Find a Network of people to connect and learn from – Women Leaders in Pharma is a great example.