The Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association (HBA) announced today that Laurie P. Cooke has been appointed the organization’s first chief executive officer by a unanimous vote. As Chief Executive Officer, Cooke will be responsible for the effective overall management and leadership of the affairs of HBA. She was selected from a pool of approximately 70 people who were contacted as sources or potential candidates for the position.“We are delighted that Laurie has accepted this position as the first CEO of the HBA,” said Debra L. Newton, President, HBA, and President, Newton Grey. “Her exceptional management skills and in-depth healthcare background make her an ideal choice to lead our growing organization.”
Cooke was previously Director, Career Management/Professional Programs, at Project Management Institute (PMI), a not-for-profit global professional association that promotes project management as a profession. She was responsible for leading and implementing new product development initiatives as well as for long-term strategy integration, portfolio management and global product deployment. Her colleagues described her as a thoughtful, strategic leader, noting, “She is the best; HBA will be pleased with her as CEO.”
Prior to PMI, Cooke spent nine years working for Aventis Pharmaceuticals in both Bridgewater, New Jersey, and in the United Kingdom, with significant time spent in Germany and France. She also lived in New Zealand for several years. Drawing on her international experience, Cooke plans to foster the HBA’s continued growth abroad.
“I am eager to join this organization of outstanding healthcare professionals and look forward to helping increase its global presence,” Cooke said. “Developing international affiliates and chapters allows us to expand the scope of training and networking opportunities worldwide.”
Cooke holds a bachelor’s of science in microbiology from the University of Maryland and earned her registered pharmacy degree at the University of Washington. She also holds a postgraduate diploma in software engineering management from the University of Luton, in England.
The Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association (HBA) is a global not-for profit organization dedicated to furthering the advancement of women in the healthcare industry. Headquartered in New Jersey with chapters and affiliates throughout the U.S. and in Europe, the HBA provides educational opportunities to develop cutting-edge industry knowledge and leadership skills; recognizes outstanding women in the industry; provides opportunities for networking; creates greater visibility for women in the industry; fosters mentoring relationships, and serves as a conduit for research on career advancement issues. For more information, visit www.hbanet.org.
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