Brenda Becker has navigated a dynamic executive career spanning corporate, public, and non-profit domains. Her expertise encompasses corporate governance, strategic board advice, and a deep involvement in public policy. Specifically, she has operated at the intersection of medical technology and healthcare, fostering essential relationships, devising strategic approaches, advocating for impactful change, and skillfully managing risk. The pinnacle of her work in this profession was serving in the White House as Senior Advisor to the Vice President.

How did you become a leader in healthcare? Was healthcare always something you were interested in?

I discovered my passion for politics/healthcare quite serendipitously! My father was an elected official which sparked my initial interest. My interest deepened during my time as an intern, which led me to pivot my academic focus to political science with the aspiration of becoming a lobbyist. My first role was with BCBS of Michigan, where I engaged in state government affairs. This position laid the groundwork for my eventual relocation to DC working with the BCBS Association.

Despite my initial limited knowledge of the healthcare sector, I found myself increasingly drawn to it, cultivating a passion for advocating for patient welfare through public policy. Drawing from my experience in the federal government, Boston Scientific approached me to spearhead its Global Government Affairs team. The opportunity to join an organization where innovation in medical technology is making a profound impact on patient lives worldwide was compelling. At Boston Scientific, I take immense pride in advocating for technologies that have a significant, positive effect on countless individuals. I constantly remind myself that our health is foundational to pursuing our other interests, so, everything comes down to the well-being of our patients.

It’s easier said than done to keep an eye on what’s in the policy pipeline for healthcare and life sciences. What’s a topic you think fellow WBL members should make sure they’re paying attention to in the coming months, and why?

In the dynamic landscape of healthcare and life sciences, a multitude of pressing issues demand our attention. As a global entity, we are extremely sensitive to geopolitical dynamics, with a vigilant eye on supply chain developments. Two pivotal areas that warrant scrutiny are artificial intelligence and data privacy. The evolving legislative and regulatory environment in these domains necessitates initiative-taking engagement from the life sciences sector.

Additionally, the regulatory discourse surrounding chemicals such as EtO and PFAS—essential for sterilization and medical technologies—is intensifying. Despite their minimal environmental impact for use in patients, it is imperative that we advocate for the necessary exemptions, ensuring these vital products remain available for patient care. Lastly, we need to focus on equity and the cost of healthcare.

In addition to a “day job” that focuses on fighting for impactful change in our industry, your work extends to a number of board roles. What advice can you share with executives hoping to make a difference by advocating for more diversity on their boards?

I recognize the critical importance of embracing diverse perspectives within board compositions to ensure a wide range of insights and experiences are well-represented. My active participation on a corporate board, which has a strong group of leadership backgrounds, is a testament to the company’s deliberate and strategic approach to recruitment. This diversity is pivotal in driving optimal outcomes.

The journey towards achieving this representation begins with the willingness of qualified individuals, particularly women, to step up, who are eager to contribute and well-prepared for board service. The WBL Board Program is a great pathway to readiness. The next step is to strategically network to make sure key influencers are aware of your interest in board service and the unique value you bring.

It is critically important that we persistently amplify our voices through various channels to raise awareness and drive the momentum around the issue of board diversity.

Personally or professionally, what might the WBL network be surprised to know about you?

While I love living in Washington DC, I grew up in Michigan, so I am a Midwesterner at heart.

My greatest joy is the friendships with my two wonderful adult children and a soon-to-be daughter-in-law, who are following in my professional footsteps and live nearby. My grand pup, Bud, brings a spark into our life with every playful moment we share.

My passion for health, fitness, and wellness has led me to transform my living room into a personal gym. I enjoy golf, pickleball, hiking, and skiing. And… who does not love Italy!

My guiding principle is simple: “Just keep moving!”