Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association hosts first Leadership summit in India

The Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association (HBA) hosted its inaugural India Leadership Summit in Mumbai. The event convened global healthcare executives and service providers, from companies including Novartis, Lilly, ZS Associates, GSK, Sanofi, Cognizant, Parexel, Syneos Health, MSD, Pfizer, Johnson and Johnson, Fortrea to come together to solicit gender equity in healthcare leadership in India. 

With a growing working population, India plays a vital role in HBA’s global strategy, offering unique opportunities for women to lead in the healthcare industry. The HBA India community has grown from 15 to over 450 members within three years.

Leaders also agreed that while equal representation is critical, it is also important to galvanise equal pay parity and prioritise women’s health and wellness. Championing the movement for gender balance, HBA believes that gender equality in leadership requires male support, and it is crucial for men to advocate for gender equality in leadership, particularly in male-dominated industries like India.

Mary Stutts, CEO, HBA, highlighted, “Given India’s global importance, having an impact here will resonate powerfully around the world. The HBA is committed to ensuring Indian women’s contributions are celebrated, and their leadership potential is fully realised, helping shape the future of healthcare globally.”

Dr Deepa Desai, HBA India Chair, expressed, “The healthcare landscape in India is rapidly evolving, and we are proud to provide a platform that empowers women to lead the charge and motivates more men to join as allies. Our goal is to equip women and allies with knowledge, confidence, and connections necessary to transform the industry.”