Podcast Summary: The Leadership Dance
Episode 8: Transforming Industries and Teams, with Sue Siegel
Released: January 20, 2025
Introduction
In Episode 8 of The Leadership Dance, host Alissa Hsu Lynch welcomes Sue Siegel, a distinguished board director, former CEO, and venture capitalist in the life sciences industry. With over three decades of experience, Sue brings a wealth of knowledge in leadership, innovation, and team building. The episode delves into Sue's multifaceted career, her approach to leadership, insights on the evolving genomics industry, and the importance of authenticity and mentorship.
Early Life and Cultural Influences
Sue Siegel begins by sharing her unique multicultural upbringing, which significantly shaped her adaptability and resilience in her career.
“I have roots in the Philippines, shoots in Puerto Rico, but boots in the US... it really helped fuel my natural curiosity.” [00:59]
Growing up as an immigrant, Sue navigated diverse cultures, which taught her to embrace her uniqueness and fostered a global perspective. Playing team sports like basketball and volleyball instilled in her a love for teamwork and leadership from an early age. Influenced by her academically driven parents, Sue pursued sciences, earning a graduate degree in molecular biology and biochemistry. However, a pivotal moment in her mid-20s redirected her towards the business world, highlighting the importance of following one's passion.
Career Journey: From Sciences to Business
Sue recounts her non-linear career path, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities and maintaining curiosity.
“The choreography was just... it happened. I can't say that I choreographed it.” [07:55]
Starting at Bio Rad, she quickly advanced, taking on roles at companies like DuPont and Amersham. Her tenure at Affymetrix during the Human Genome Project era was transformative, allowing her to lead the company to a multi-billion dollar market cap. Sue’s transition into venture capital with Moore Davidow Ventures and later leading GE Ventures and Health Imagination at GE showcased her versatility and knack for innovation.
Insights on the Genomics Industry
Sue offers a comprehensive analysis of the genomics industry's evolution, particularly the integration of AI and its impact on drug discovery and diagnostics.
“Now is the time to mine [genomics data]. AI is only going to help make better and produce so much more of.” [14:18]
She highlights how AI accelerates the discovery of new drugs, reducing the time and cost associated with traditional methods. The shift from pure discovery to practical application has led to advancements in personalized medicine and regenerative therapies, positioning genomics as a cornerstone of modern healthcare.
Leadership Philosophy and Team Building
A significant portion of the conversation focuses on Sue's leadership principles and her approach to building high-performing teams, especially within structured environments like GE.
“At the core of everything is the team. I fundamentally believe that without team and without the people, you can't do anything.” [34:14]
Sue emphasizes the balance between innovation and operational rigor, advocating for a culture that embraces risk-taking and learning from failures. She introduces her "Ways of Working" framework, which includes principles like seeking impact over glory, respecting others, proactive problem management, and assuming noble intent. These principles have been instrumental in fostering collaborative and accountable teams.
Navigating Board Directorships
Sue discusses her extensive experience serving on over 20 corporate boards, often being the first Asian woman in such settings. She shares strategies for overcoming barriers and earning respect in boardrooms.
“Respect the time that it takes to earn your position. And you have to earn it.” [36:20]
Her portfolio is strategically balanced across small to mega-cap public companies, with a strong focus on healthcare. Sue underscores the importance of mentorship, both as a mentor and mentee, in sustaining engagement and effectiveness as a board director.
Authenticity and Personal Values in Leadership
Authenticity is a recurring theme, with Sue elaborating on the delicate balance between being true to oneself and maintaining professionalism in diverse environments.
“Authenticity to me means being really comfortable in your own skin. No matter what environment you're in, you have to show up as you live by your values.” [18:51]
She discusses the challenges of bringing one's full self to work, particularly in polarized settings, and the significance of respectful communication and empathy in leadership.
Mentorship and Giving Back
Sue highlights the profound impact of mentorship on her career, recounting her experiences both as a mentee and a mentor.
“Learning is a privilege, and I've learned to bet on myself.” [41:34]
She credits her success to mentors like Guy Marlow, who provided direct yet empathetic feedback and encouraged her to take on roles beyond her comfort zone. Currently, Sue is deeply involved in mentoring CEOs and volunteering with nonprofits focused on healthcare, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Advice to Future Leaders
Concluding the episode, Sue offers insightful advice to aspiring leaders:
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Pace Yourself: Recognize that careers have long arcs, and it's essential to enjoy the journey without rushing success.
“Careers have a long arc. You have the right and you have the benefit of enjoying the journey.” [49:15]
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Embrace Opportunities: Be open to unexpected doors opening and trust your instincts to seize them.
“Don't be afraid to walk through doors, especially when they open unexpectedly.” [49:15]
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Master Communication: Effective storytelling and clear communication are crucial for conveying impact and driving success.
“Learn how to communicate. Know the story you're trying to tell.” [49:15]
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Adaptability and Teamwork: Foster a collaborative environment where diverse teams can thrive amidst ambiguity.
“Ambiguity is okay and I'm up for a challenge. At the core of everything is team.” [34:14]
Conclusion
Sue Siegel's journey from a multicultural upbringing to a pivotal role in transforming industries exemplifies the dance of leadership—balancing innovation, resilience, and authenticity. Her insights offer valuable lessons for leaders aiming to navigate complex landscapes while staying true to their values and fostering impactful teams.
In this episode, listeners are inspired to embrace their unique paths, invest in meaningful relationships, and lead with empathy and purpose. Sue's experiences underscore the importance of continual learning, adaptability, and the profound impact of mentorship in shaping successful careers.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- “I have roots in the Philippines, shoots in Puerto Rico, but boots in the US... it really helped fuel my natural curiosity.” [00:59]
- “The choreography was just... it happened. I can't say that I choreographed it.” [07:55]
- “Now is the time to mine [genomics data]. AI is only going to help make better and produce so much more of.” [14:18]
- “At the core of everything is the team. I fundamentally believe that without team and without the people, you can't do anything.” [34:14]
- “Respect the time that it takes to earn your position. And you have to earn it.” [36:20]
- “Authenticity to me means being really comfortable in your own skin. No matter what environment you're in, you have to show up as you live by your values.” [18:51]
- “Learning is a privilege, and I've learned to bet on myself.” [41:34]
- “Careers have a long arc. You have the right and you have the benefit of enjoying the journey.” [49:15]
- “Don't be afraid to walk through doors, especially when they open unexpectedly.” [49:15]
- “Learn how to communicate. Know the story you're trying to tell.” [49:15]
- “Ambiguity is okay and I'm up for a challenge. At the core of everything is team.” [34:14]
About the Hosts and Guests:
The Leadership Dance is hosted by Alissa Hsu Lynch, a former world-class dancer turned global business executive. The podcast explores how to choreograph one's leadership journey by drawing parallels from the arts and business. In this episode, Sue Siegel shares her extensive experience in life sciences, venture capital, and corporate leadership, offering listeners a masterclass in adaptability, team building, and impactful leadership.