2008 Leonard Kanavy
Vice President of Commercial Operations at Genentech Named 2008 Honorable Mentor
The Healthcare Businesswomen's Association (HBA) named Genentech's Leonard Kanavy, vice president of commercial operations as its 2008 Honorable Mentor.
“Len was chosen as this year’s Honorable Mentor because of his tireless dedication as a mentor of women in our industry and his commitment to their career development,” said HBA chair emeritus, Elizabeth M. Mutisya, MD.
The HBA created the Honorable Mentor award in 2001 to annually recognize an individual who demonstrates long-term advocacy for current and future women leaders. Recipients exhibit personal dedication to developing, mentoring and promoting women in the industry, and are supportive of the HBA’s core purpose to further the advancement and impact of women in the business of healthcare.
During the HBA’s 19th annual Woman of the Year event, Kanavy stated, “Genentech is committed to the evolution of leadership and mentoring skills for women throughout the company and who work in diverse areas – from science and product development, to legal and executive management. We understand the importance of identifying and cultivating talent and we’re committed to evolving programs that encourage women to get involved and inspire others.”
Kanavy, now retired, joined Genentech as vice president, commercial operations in Sept. 2006, after 18 years at Novartis Pharmaceuticals, U.S. Kanavy held several leadership roles at Novartis, including vice president, commercial operations; vice president of business analysis; executive director of market analysis, and director of specialty marketing research and analysis.
“Len is deeply respected for his commitment to developing people and particularly for his mentoring of the women on his team. He clearly values the richness of a diverse workforce and helps to empower women to aspire and succeed,” said Ian Clark, executive vice president for Genentech’s Commercial group. “He is an exceptional leader and role model.”
About the HBA
The Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association (HBA) is a global nonprofit organization serving a community women and men in leading life sciences, biotech, pharmaceutical and supporting companies. The HBA has nearly 120 Corporate Partners and nearly 8,000 members served by more than 20 chapters and affiliates across the U.S. and Europe.