International Women's Day Spotlight - Rebecca Wake
31/03/2023
Rebecca has been awarded the Employee of the Season 2022 (Djilba, August – September) and has been with PathWest for many years as a medical scientist, then later stepped into senior roles in charge of several laboratories. When COVID-19 struck, she assumed the responsibility of overseeing pre-analytical operations and guided the team (of up to 250 staff) through some truly challenging days. Rebecca is somebody who goes about her role with grace and commitment, and no matter how busy she is, she always has time to support and guide her staff and make them feel valued. She strives to deliver excellent outcomes and through leading by example she inspires her team to do the same.
In a world that is constantly changing, how have the roles and contributions of women in science or your profession or discipline evolved over the past few years?
When I started my career in the 90s, not many of the senior positions in our organisation were held by women, this has been changing over the years and it’s great to see capable women being promoted to hold leadership roles in PathWest.
What networks have you found helpful for building a supportive community of women in your profession or discipline?
I feel building strong professional relationships is really important and it is something I have done throughout my career. I have reached out to other like-minded women at similar levels to myself to create support networks, within PathWest, the Department of Health and private industry. Likewise, I make sure I offer support to emerging leaders and at the same time keep in contact with women who have retired as they too have valuable insights and advice to share.
What advice would you give someone who is just starting out in your profession or discipline?
Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself by taking on different roles, you may be surprised at the skills you learn and develop from taking that challenge, and you will grow from the experience.
What message would you like to share with women around the world?
Believe in yourself you are worth it.
Last Updated:
02/04/2023