Career Conversations

Perhaps the single most important lesson that emerged from the last few years is that the way to move beyond what seem to be impossible circumstances is to challenge assumptions, think outside the box, and experiment with new approaches to problem-solving. To do this requires a growth mindset from the outset and a belief that there is a way to achieve the goals of gender and health equity in spite of the obstacles along the path. This conversation with champions in the healthcare industry will offer insights on how these leaders focused inward to muster the courage to lead important initiatives at their companies by building supportive networks, not allowing others to make them doubt their abilities or significance of their causes, not accepting validation for limiting behaviors, and reframing the "no's" and failures they encountered as "not yet."

Numerous articles and conference sessions focus on the business case for diversity. They cite financial impact, improved decision-making, and more engaged and committed staff, among many other benefits. However, more recent research suggests that the mere existence of diverse teams is not enough to ensure these benefits. According to Robin Ely, the Diane Doerge Wilson Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School, and David Thomas, President of Morehouse College, “what matters is how an organization harnesses diversity and whether it’s willing to reshape its power structure.” In other words, leaders need to see the value of the differences individuals bring to the team and create an environment that supports new ways of leading based on those differences. Panelists will share how they have embraced this challenge and the impact of these efforts on their projects and initiatives.

Companies that fail to prioritize innovation often find themselves losing market share to more forward-thinking rivals. While it's easy to recognize the impact of innovation-limiting behaviors in hindsight, it's crucial for leaders to introspect and identify such practices within their own teams. A panel of executive leaders in the healthcare industry will discuss the top ten behaviors and practices that hinder innovation, sharing strategies based on their experiences to help leaders stay ahead in an evolving industry and unlock new possibilities.