Livvie Van Lanen

I believe much of my success is tied to the trust my leaders and mentors have placed in me. Throughout my career, I've always been empowered by those around me to make my own decisions. Having the freedom to learn through experience, take ownership of my work, and gain confidence in my abilities has shaped me into the professional I am today. Their support, guidance, and belief in my potential have been fundamental to my achievements, and it's something I strive to pay forward to others as I continue to grow in my career.

The best career advice I've received is to always make sure that no matter how far you go, that you're always opening the doors for other people along your way. This principle of paying it forward and ensuring that my success creates opportunities for others has been a guiding philosophy throughout my career. It reminds me that leadership isn't just about personal achievement, but about lifting others up as you climb.

The healthcare and pharmaceutical industries are constantly evolving, but one thing remains unchanged: the importance of relationships. As I’ve grown throughout my career, I’ve made it a priority to connect with strong women within my organization whose strengths differ from, and inspire, my own. Staying curious and asking thoughtful questions has consistently helped guide me to the next step in my professional journey.

One of the biggest challenges facing our industry is the constant evolution of policies and regulations. Navigating uncertainty while continuing to move forward is a skill that has become increasingly important. At the same time, I see tremendous opportunity in the rise of AI. The opportunity lies in using these tools to unlock our potential, increase efficiency, and enhance decision-making, not to replace people. Technology can help us work smarter, but it can never fully replicate the empathy, relationships, and human connection that are at the heart of meaningful work. The key is finding the right balance: embracing innovation while preserving the human touch that drives collaboration, trust, and impact.

I would say integrity, accountability, and being bold are the values most important to me. These three principles guide both my professional decisions and personal choices. Integrity ensures I stay true to my commitments and ethics, accountability means I take ownership of my actions and their outcomes, and being bold allows me to take calculated risks, speak up when needed, and push boundaries in pursuit of meaningful goals.