Women inBiotech is a vibrant network that aims to improve the underrepresentation of women at senior levels in the biotech sector offering in-person events, an online forum, a range of guidance and a recently launched mentoring programme.

Earlier this month, Yvonne Adebola, our Director of Communications had the pleasure of attending their event focused on growing the pool of non-diverse execs. It boasted an impressive panel including: Emma Thorp, Co-Founder of the Diverse Directors Programme, `NED for RBW Consulting; Jo Pisani, Strategic Advisor, NED and Charity Trustee; Jane Dancer, Chair, Spirea, PharmEnable and Elasmogen; Emma Tinsley, CEO, Weatherden and Kathryn Chapman, Director of Science and Entrepreneurship, Babraham Research Campus.

Here are some of the main takeaways:

• Biotech is a diverse sector with many women but diversity narrows as you get to the top
• The skills involved in non-exec functions are highly multifaceted including a mix of business and professional service skills
• Getting involved with early stage companies allows you to give more impact
• Networking with board directors is an efficient strategy to gain exposure to non-exec roles
• It is important to separate your contracts for non-executive work vs contractual work
• Lastly, find that person who believes in you more than you believe in yourself

For more information visit the UK BIA at https://www.bioindustry.org/