Words by GOLD newsdesk
The Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association (HBA) has announced its 2025 award winners, recognising three individuals for their contributions to advancing women in global healthcare.
Reshema Kemps-Polanco, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Novartis US, is the 2025 Woman of the Year. With over 25 years in the pharmaceutical industry, her leadership is marked by a focus on innovation and equitable access to treatments. She has actively mentored women into senior roles and has a strong background in healthcare equity from her work at Novartis and Johnson & Johnson.
Jim Weiss, Founder and Chairman, Real Chemistry, is named 2025’s Honorable Mentor. Having built Real Chemistry into a global health innovation company, Jim is dedicated to mentoring women leaders. He has been involved with the HBA for over 15 years, supporting it as an advisor, sponsor and board member.
Rebecca Vermeulen, Vice President, Global Patient Networks, Genentech, has received the Strategic Transformation Achievement Recognition (STAR) award. Vermeulen played a crucial role in guiding the HBA through the pandemic and continues to advocate for patient-centric approaches at Genentech.
“These awardees are leaders and catalysts for global change, inspiring others to break barriers and build a more equitable and inclusive future for all,” said Mary Stutts, CEO, HBA. The awardees will be celebrated at the HBA’s 35th annual Woman of the Year event on 9 May 2025 in Chicago.
