EMJ GOLD: Pharma news, views and analysis S09 E08: HBA STAR Rebecca Vermeulen on purpose, passion and patients
Mar 27, 2025
Rebecca Vermeulen, Vice President at Genentech and 2025 HBA STAR award recipient, shares her inspiring journey from pharmacist to pharma leader. She highlights the importance of patient advocacy and empowerment, emphasizing her commitment to making informed health decisions accessible. The discussion touches on the role of passion in leadership, advocating for authenticity and vulnerability. Rebecca also addresses the challenges women face in healthcare, stressing the need for gender parity and collaboration to elevate care standards.
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Unexpected Turns
- Rebecca Vermeulen's career path wasn't straightforward, transitioning from a large company (Lilly) to a smaller, patient-focused one.
- An unexpected opportunity at Genentech then led her to California and later to Basel, Switzerland, demonstrating career adaptability.
Follow Your Passion
- Find your passion and purpose in your work, allowing your career to unfold naturally.
- Focus on doing what you enjoy and supporting your team's growth, leading to fulfillment and joy.
Leading with Love
- Vermeulen follows a "lead with love" philosophy, emphasizing care, connection, and genuine engagement.
- This approach goes beyond work tasks, delving into deeper purpose and fostering team empowerment.