5 Questions with Brenda Becker, Senior Vice President of Global Government Affairs for Boston Scientific

I have long admired Brenda Becker. When I first met her, she was the Assistant Secretary for Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs at the U.S. Department of Commerce and was taking U.S. Commerce Secretary Don Evans on congressional visits. I was a congressional staffer. But we were both Michiganders. That was more than 20 years ago.

Fast forward to today, Brenda serves as Senior Vice President of Global Government Affairs for Boston Scientific and sits on the board of Sight Sciences. Brenda has given me advice and bestowed wisdom, sometimes without even knowing it.

I had the opportunity to interview her recently on her career, leadership approach, the need for more civility in Washington, DC, and how a government affairs career has positioned her for board service.

How has your leadership philosophy evolved throughout your career, and what experiences have shaped your approach to leading teams?

"He who thinks he leads, but has no followers, is only taking a walk" - John Maxwell.

As I have evolved as a leader, it is less about me and more about WE! I had a boss who was a micromanager early in my career and I felt smothered and that I wasn't respected. That experience shaped my philosophy as a leader to empower others. I build a strong team of smarter people than me that balance my weaknesses. I empower them to manage their portfolio and hold them accountable. Also, I am transparent, communicate often, and bring a safe space for team members to share their thoughts. I intentionally seek different perspectives at the table. Believe development for me and others is important - a consistent growth mindset!

Leaders often face challenges that test our resilience. Can you discuss a challenge that prompted significant personal growth, and how it has influenced your leadership style?

In my career, I have made a lot of mistakes and I took the opportunity to learn from all of them and self-improve. Important to be self-aware! Early in my career I sought a promotion and didn't get it. My behavior towards the person who got the position was immature, unprofessional, and certainly not supportive. That was a huge period of growth for me and realized that is not who I was and actually recently apologized to that individual. The greatest lesson l learned from that behavior was-- it is not what happens to you but how you handle it.

Mentorship and sponsorship play a crucial role in career development. How do you approach mentorship, and what advice do you often find yourself giving to emerging leaders?

I spend a lot of time mentoring others and believe it is important. Listening is key and each individual I meet with is looking for something different. However, I have a quote that I share:

"be who you are and be that well." - Saint Frances DeSales

While we all need to stretch and grow, I believe it is important to stick to your core values and skill set. I consistently challenge individuals to network and build strong relationships. Also, important to take risks, look for opportunities, work hard and embrace being great. our parents didn't send us to college to be mediocre. Lastly, remember to lift others up - let your team members shine.

You've had a front-row seat to politics and policy in Washington, DC.  What's the anecdote for more civility and cooperation? 

Building relationships! Early in my career Members of Congress and their families spent time together having dinner, doing events together and getting to know each other on a personal level. Those days are in the rearview mirror and it has become transactional. We need to LISTEN to each other with empathy and try to understand where the other person's perspective is coming from and why. Bi-partisanship is not a bad word and we need to move from a zero-sum game to everyone gives a little on issues so we can solve crucial issues of importance to this country.

How does your experience in government affairs enhance your value on corporate boards, particularly in guiding strategic and regulatory decisions?

Government policies and regulations now pose a significantly greater threat to the operations of companies than ever before. My experience in government affairs helps guide companies through these challenges at the Board table. Understanding the evolving business & political landscape can help companies get ahead/adapt to these legislative and regulatory policies. In Government Affairs we consistently have to assess risk, look for opportunities and build a strategy to influence the policies that impact the business.

Bonus Question: What guides you?

Treating others how I want to be treated. Kindness is easy and goes a long way.

Quick Hits

ChatGPT/Generative AI? YES! I believe it is important to evolve; this tool can enhance how we approach business issues. From writing a one-pager to building presentations. I recently challenged my team to see how we can better use AI for our advocacy efforts.

Corporate leader you admire most? Mike Mahoney, CEO, Boston Scientific.

Best career advice you've ever received? Trust your gut!

Most impactful book you've read? Epic: Power Play for Women by Carolyn B. Luce