After 30 years in clinical research, most people would tell you they’ve seen it all. But for today’s guest, Dr. Karen Correa, three decades in the industry has only deepened her conviction that it’s less critical to know everything, and much more important to know everyone. 

Karen is the VP of Clinical Development Operations at Boehringer Ingelheim, and on this episode of ImpactfulBreakthroughs she speaks with Zach Gobst about what it really takes to build teams and cultures that deliver for patients.

The two talk about why culture is the real unmet need in clinical development today. When processes, science, and timelines are all clearly established, company culture is the thing that can’t be downloaded or rushed, and yet it’s where everything begins and ends. Karen also opens up about the mentors who shaped her character, each pouring something different into her: truth, compassion, curiosity, and courage.

And when it comes to the inevitable challenges that come with a career of this scope, Karen has a reframe that stays with you. A delay is not a denial. Keep knocking. That no is going to become a yes someday. Because at the end of it all, she’s never lost sight of why the work matters, and that’s exactly the kind of north star that keeps the best leaders going.

Timestamps

00:00 Episode Start

01:45 How Karen’s career in clinical research began

04:45 Understanding the patient experience from every angle

05:30 Why culture is the real unmet need in pharma

09:00 The mentors who shaped Karen’s character and courage

12:30 Reframing challenges as learning opportunities

15:25 Finding your circle and embracing vulnerability

16:00 Being intentional about personal growth

17:15 How Karen is approaching AI today

19:55 What’s energizing Karen about the future of clinical research

Key Takeaways

• Culture is the real unmet need. When everyone in the industry already possesses the hard science skills, team culture is the only thing left. Karen believes it’s where everything begins and ends, but yet it’s still an overlooked aspect across the board. 
• I don’t want to know everything. I want to know everyone. Karen’s approach to growth and vulnerability is simple. Surround yourself with people who are brighter than you, lean on them when you don’t have the answers, and contribute what you know to the circle in return.
• Be kind to yourself. Karen reframes challenges not as setbacks but as redirections. Moments that force you down a different path you might not have found otherwise. Keep knocking, she says. That no is going to become a yes someday.
• Keep your leadership authentic. Karen credits many mentors for helping to build her into the leader she is today. She says “Leadership is about knowing who you are and refusing to compromise on that foundation.”
• Curiosity is a form of humility. Karen reminds us all to stay curious and teachable throughout our careers. “The best leaders never assume that they’ve arrived. They stay open, stay hungry, and stay teachable.”

Guest Shoutouts

• Ubavka DeNoble MD, Corporate Vice President, Patient Technology Solutions/Growth, PAREXEL
• Christine Enciso, Vice President, Development Services and Operational Excellence, Regeneron
• Jeremy Chadwick, Chief Operating Officer, Kymera Therapeutics
• Brian Meltzer MD, Vice President, Clinical Research, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Resources

• Connect with guest Karen Correa on LinkedIn
• Check out Boehringer Ingelheim
• Connect with host Zach Gobst on LinkedIn
• Check out Leapcure