Ines Dahne-Steuber
Senior Vice President, Operational Excellence at Fresenius Medical Care
“The price you’re paying and the price you’re being paid need to be in balance in all aspects of your life.”
Read Ines’ full profile below
What do you do every day?
I work for one of the world's largest diagnostic laboratories. I lead an organization of 1,200 smart individuals who bring new diagnostic tests and IT solutions to the US and international healthcare marketplace.
Why do you love it?
I love it because I contribute to creating a healthier world every day and because I can get others excited about the difference that we can make.
What were your moments of fear and challenges in your career?
For me, fear can be fear of failure (hello Imposter Syndrome) or fear of an unknown situation. Working in Healthcare, the early days of the pandemic were a time of fear and insecurity because we had to make decisions with limited, ever-changing information. My advice for dealing with fear is to be open about the discomfort and challenges. Share them with people you trust and respect and work actively to address them. Nobody does their best work out of fear.
What are some of the latest innovations in science that you are most excited about?
I am very excited about the many uses of AI in healthcare. AI will advance precision medicine, reduce errors and free up humans to do the important work in healthcare that machines cannot do - be present for patients.
Where did you grow up?
In East Germany in a former socialist country.
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
My first grade teacher. She named me class speaker. Without her, I would never have had the courage to speak up.
Describe an experience where you adapted your approach to resolve a sticky situation.
Sticky situations usually have to do with people spending more time talking and less time listening. An example of this is when developing a new product. I try to keep personal feelings out of the equation and find common ground.
What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM/Healthcare?
I actually studied linguistics but worked as a nurse’s assistant in a hospital to put myself through college. I developed a passion for healthcare from there and I am thankful that I have had the opportunities to change careers from linguistics to healthcare.
Who inspires you?
I am inspired by anyone who finds and spreads joy, dignity and grace in all aspects of life and work.
What’s next for you?/What would you like to do when you “grow up’? (retire, etc.)/What is something you hope to accomplish in the future?
As I have enjoyed a long career already, I am focused on sharing as much knowledge as possible through mentoring, coaching and teaching. I am also working actively to serve on advisory boards.
Personal style/fashion tip?
Much has changed through the pandemic and dress codes have thankfully relaxed quite a bit. I try to stay away from fast fashion and rather invest in a few nicer pieces that will last and can be combined. Check out http://www.bridgetteraes.com/. She has a great fashion blog that can help with any challenge. She insists one should spend 25% of your budget on accessories because fashion is like chicken - you need to spice it up! Also, my purse holds enough to get me through an overnight camping trip. :)
Current book/book you love?
Any book by Abraham Verghese. I have also enjoyed reading about the role of women in wars in the 20th century: The Canary Girls, The Whalebone Theater, Girls of Flight City, The Women, The Alice Network, The Nightingale
