Shannon Lorbiecki, MHA, National Advisor, Manatt Health
What is your current role?
For over 15 years I have had a national health care strategy practice that focuses on driving outcomes with measurable impact on the health of individuals and communities. I joined Manatt Health in 2018 to work with the leadership of some of the nation’s top health systems, academic medical centers, children’s hospitals, health plans, and state government on health transformation, growth, strategy and execution, and affiliations and partnerships.
Why did you join the TRUST?
I have been a member of the TRUST for several years but have become more consistently engaged over the past three years since I decreased my business travel during the COVID-19 pandemic. I have served on the Program Committee for two years. By bringing my national experience and the broad range of issues Manatt Health works on to the Program Committee I hope that I am adding a unique perspective and value to the group.
What has been your favorite part of being a TRUST member?
Meeting and learning from women in such a wide range of roles in health care. The value both in terms of networking and in cross pollinating ideas and perspectives that the TRUST provides across so many diverse aspects of health is unparalleled in my experience. The TRUST also allows me to stay connected with the regional health care landscape given my consulting practice is national.
What one word would you use to summarize what the TRUST means to you?
Sisterhood
What is the best career advice you’ve received?
Find a passion outside of work. A job you enjoy should contribute to your purpose in life, but your life outside of work is also important. Make time for hobbies and social relationships to help you find fulfillment. It is particularly beneficial to have something outside of work where you can see and mark measurable progress, such as home projects or gardening, because it often takes a long time to see the impact of our work in health care.
How do you support other women in their leadership journey?
At this point in my career supporting the next generation of women in their leadership journey is a very critical part of my mission. In addition to participating in the TRUST mentorship program, I am on the Leadership Council and actively involved in mentoring through the Carol Emmott Foundation, a fellowship program for women in healthcare leadership and a gender equity collaborative, and in my role at Manatt mentor and support the development of many junior team members.
My mentoring approach always involves pushing to be proactive in seizing career growth opportunities. In my experience, too many women wait to be noticed and recognized rather than proactively pursuing the next opportunity or advancement.
What do you love the most about the health care industry?
The potential to have an impact by addressing the complex and diverse challenges facing health care organizations. My mission is to have an impact on achieving a health care ecosystem that increases access and equity while becoming more cost-effective and results-driven.
How do you maintain or improve your health and well-being?
I am very committed to an active and healthy life. I have been a long-distance runner for the past 20-plus years. I recently decided to retire from running marathons and am doing more yoga and strength work for a more balanced workout schedule. I generally eat a healthy primarily plant-based diet but also believe in enjoying anything in moderation (chocolate is my go-to sweet tooth fix).
Words of wisdom to live by?
If your dreams don’t scare you, they are not big enough.