‘You’ve earned your seat at the table…use it,’ says Sue Martin, former MD of J&J MedTech ANZ

Sue Martin, former Managing Director of Johnson & Johnson MedTech ANZ and Chair of the Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA) Board, offered an inspiring and deeply reflective narrative in this Health Industry Hub podcast.

Drawing on over two decades of experience spanning multiple countries and functions, Martin revisited pivotal moments of “discomfort” that shaped her journey as a senior leader. These challenges, combined with transformative “life events” played a crucial role in forging her path as a female leader, culminating in what the MTAA described as a legacy of “thoughtful and compassionate leadership”.

To emerging female leaders, Martin’s advice was refreshingly candid: “Be true to yourself. Really understand the things that you have to say yes to both professionally and personally, but also truly understand the things you can say no to both personally and professionally.”

In sharing the single piece of advice that has left an indelible mark on her career journey, Martin said “I remember vividly when someone said to me ‘you’ve worked really hard and earned your place at the table…use it. When you think through that, what does that actually mean?”

The pandemic, she observed, was a crucible for leadership, revealing vulnerabilities and demanding a recalibration of traditional people management. Martin shared her insights on the essential shifts required for leaders to navigate the complexities of a post-pandemic world.

She spoke candidly about the upcoming election, offering insights to senior leaders as they gear up for the new year. As she contemplates the next chapter of her career, Martin’s excitement is palpable. Her forward-looking vision is fuelled by her passion to “shape and influence [healthcare] in new ways”.

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