Susan Huff, MBA, M.Ed, Executive District Business Manager, Mead Johnson Nutrition, Reckitt

What’s your current role?

As an Executive District Business Manager, I lead a team of medical sales representatives across six states, partnering with health care clinics and hospitals to help give pre-term and term infants the best start in life through specialized nutrition. My role provides the opportunity to be patient-focused, to align goals with health organizations, and to work closely with senior leadership.

When did you join the Women’s Health Leadership TRUST and what roles have you held within the TRUST?

I joined the TRUST in late 2019 to meet other women leaders in healthcare, as I was inspired by LinkedIn posts my friend, Kim Perry, was often sharing about women supporting women in their leadership journey. I have participated in women’s leadership initiatives within my organization, and the TRUST led me to a group of women from different companies and areas of healthcare who dedicate their time to helping other women succeed and developing their own leadership skills. This is my first year on the Associate Board and I serve on the Sponsorship Committee.

What has been your favorite part of the TRUST?

My favorite part of being a member of the TRUST is that it provides women with a built-in framework for learning and development, fellowship, positive relationships with other leaders, and the opportunity to serve and mentor others. I remember being told you will get back what you put into it, and I am finding that is true!

What was the best mentoring experience you’ve had?

The best mentoring experience I had was with a woman who was a good listener but who also wasn’t afraid to be honest and give hard advice. This person asked tough questions to push me to think outside of my comfort zone and changed my perception of my leadership potential from “why me?” to “why not me?”

Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that significantly influenced your leadership style or professional path?

A pivotal moment in my career that influenced my leadership style was when a new senior leader changed the organizational culture and encouraged me to put people first as a key leadership behavior. I found my team and I not only accomplished and exceeded goals, but we also succeeded together and genuinely supported one another.

What emerging trend in health care are you most excited about and why?

I am most excited about (and most cautious of) AI and how it will influence decisions in the healthcare industry. In my area, there is an element of local knowledge and “boots on the ground” knowledge that can be equally important, and I am intrigued by how AI will fit into the future.

What strategies do you use to build effective teams and promote collaboration?

To build effective teams and collaboration, I strive to empower members of my team with the ability to make decisions and to own our business and our results. When I step aside and let team members do what they are best at as well as give them opportunities to lead and grow in new areas, we build the trust to hold each other accountable, learn from mistakes, and cheer each other on.

How do you maintain or improve your health and well-being?

I am working on creating more balance with work, family, friends, and my own well-being. I probably need more support achieving this, and being a part of the TRUST is a great way to balance friendship and well-being with my career goals and professional development.

Words of wisdom to live by?

“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” I am reminded by Maya Angelou’s words that I have the power to change things, and I also have the power to change my perspective.