MTS’ recent Women in BioPharma Connect event brought together female leaders from across the biopharma ecosystem to network and hear from Peggy Koenig, Chair Emeritus of ABRY Partners, one of the country’s top-ranked private equity firms. Peggy shared her extraordinary professional journey from publishing to investment banking to CEO of ABRY and well beyond. The discussion offered valuable insights and inspiration for women navigating their careers in leadership roles.

Below are highlights and some of Peggy’s philosophical guiding principles:

• The Power of Setting Intentions. Setting clear intentions that you can visualize, combined with the power of believing in yourself, are crucial for achieving success.
• Embrace Synchronicity. Unexplained coincidences can lead to new opportunities — be open to them!
• Take Risks and Face Challenges. Don’t shy away from taking personal and professional risks, and learn from setbacks. There is always another opportunity around the corner.
• Importance of Mentorship. Both offering and receiving mentorship is crucial for career development and to the success of a vibrant company culture.
• Women Supporting Women. The best way for women to succeed is to have a cohort of women who support and empower each other as well as who actively recruit other women. Be giving and supportive to the women around you.
• Build a Strong Company Culture. For the success of your business and your people, prioritize and compete on company culture with values that support personal and professional growth. Tools like mentorship programs, consistent 360 feedback, development opportunities, and open communication help build this environment.
• Leadership Qualities. Great CEOs prioritize clear communication, strategic thinking, and developing their teams.
• Use Your Voice. Don’t be shy from sharing your point of view and advocating for yourself or your team.
• Have a Growth Mindset. Focus on continuous growth and learning, be open to try new things, embrace change, be comfortable with discomfort and maintain a growth mindset.
• Check Your Ego at the Door. Be willing to set aside your personal pride, vanity, or self-importance for the greater good of the team or the organization. No one person is bigger than the team.