Woman of the Week: Barbara Kunz

Here at Executive Elements, we like to feature fantastic women we think you should know. Some of these women are clients, some are friends, some are women we’ve only just met. But they all have this in common: they are dynamic, interesting gals who have agreed to share with us their insights and secrets to success.

Barbara Lopez Kunz

My Current Job/Company:
Near Future (September 1!): Global Chief Executive Officer, Drug Information Association
Present: President/Owner, Intuity LLC
Recent Past: President, Health and Life Sciences Global Business, Battelle

My Birthdate:
04.25.57

My Work:
My life’s mission has been to improve the health and well-being of people worldwide. My work focuses on helping industry, universities, regulators, and policy-makers turn ideas into safe, effective medical products that can be accessed by people around the world to prevent disease and to improve their health.

My Passions:
My family, my friends, and my community. I am an active participant in the shared vision of creating an environment where all can live safe, productive, and healthy lives.

My Family:
Johan (supportive partner in the truest sense), Emily (amazing, successful, entrepreneurial daughter – age 29), Peter (smart, athletic, earth-conscious son – age 26).

My Heroes:
My siblings. We are scattered all across the USA, but we act as if we lived in the same community in the way we place a priority on supporting each other through all that life has to offer.

My Escape:
My home – it is my enclave, my stress-eliminating comfort zone where I can be who I am. The quiet comfort rejuvenates me and gives me the chance to think.

My Pet Peeves:
Negativity. Unhealthy behaviors and decisions. Judgments based on hearsay.

My Indulgence:
Red wine, massages, and shoes.

My Roots:
Humble. Happy. Surrounded by family, food and wine, and unconditional love.

My Future:
Leaving a legacy that benefits others.

My Love:
Life, all of it. Living fully and experiencing all that you can.

My Movie:
“Out of Africa” – I love the portrayal of the African culture, the vistas, the romance, and the life lessons.

My Quote on Life:
“Be the change you want to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi

My Accessory:
Jewelry that provides a bit of bling.

My Advice to Young Women:
Don’t be afraid to take chances in life – these provide the best learning experiences. And don’t feel guilty taking care of yourself, as feeling your best is key to being your best.

How I Balance it All:
I constantly ask myself the question: Is this something I should be doing and will it enable me to meet my goals? If not, it may not be critically important and I can either hand it to the right person or just say no.