Ashley Sanner, M.S. & Melissa Budde, M.S.

Bridging Science and Leadership: Making the Leap to People Management

Transitioning from a bench scientist to a group leader is a pivotal moment in any scientist’s career. Melissa Budde, MS (Class of 2015), a scientist at PPD with over 15 years of experience, recently embraced this new role, taking on leadership responsibilities as an Operations Group Leader. Her journey through the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Master of Science in Biotechnology program equipped her with the scientific expertise and leadership skills necessary for this transition.

In her new leadership role, Melissa reports to Ashley Sanner, MS (Class of 2019), also an alumna of the biotechnology master’s program and a Senior Group Leader at PPD. Ashely’s primary responsibility is to manage a collection of Group Leaders and to help each excel as a the primary people manager for their respective clinical research teams. This story highlights the recommendations Ashely could offer Melissa given on her experience leading teams of people, and how the biotech master’s program helped each prepare for this moment.

Melissa’s Journey: From Scientist to Group Leader

Melissa began her career as a scientist at PPD, honing her technical expertise in biotechnology over nearly two decades. While her scientific contributions were noteworthy, she aspired to make a broader impact by leading teams and shaping project outcomes.

“Participating in UW-Madison’s MS in Biotechnology program was transformative,” Melissa recalls. “The curriculum seamlessly blended technical innovation with leadership development, preparing me to think strategically and manage cross-functional teams.”

Courses in regulatory science, project management, and biotechnology business operations gave Melissa the tools to transition beyond the lab. These experiences instilled confidence in her ability to lead people and projects effectively.

The Role of the MS in Biotechnology Program

Both Melissa and Ashley credit the program’s interdisciplinary approach for their professional growth.

Ashley explains, “The program provides you not just with advanced scientific knowledge but with a strong foundation in leadership, communication, and problem-solving. These are essential for managing teams in a fast-paced industry like biotechnology.”

The program’s emphasis on real-world applications, team projects, presentations, and industry case studies prepared Melissa for the dynamic challenges of her new role as a group leader. Additionally, the professional network she developed through the program continues to provide valuable mentorship and collaboration opportunities. Melissa knows there are experienced colleagues like Ashley in the MS in Biotechnology program’s alumni network who she can turn to if she needs guidance or professional advice.

Ashley’s Advice: Mastering the Transition to Leadership

Having navigated similar career milestones, Ashley offers Melissa insights into excelling as a group leader.

1. Focus on Communication:
   “Effective leadership begins with clear communication,” Ashley advises. “You’ll be bridging the gap between technical teams and management. Ensure your messages are concise and align with organizational goals.”
2. Empower Your Team:
   “A great leader enables their team to succeed. Encourage autonomy, recognize achievements, and invest in their professional development.”
3. Balance Technical and Managerial Roles:
   “It’s easy to get drawn back into hands-on work, but your focus should shift to strategic oversight. Delegate effectively while staying informed about project details.”
4. Leverage Emotional Intelligence:
   Ashley emphasizes the importance of understanding team dynamics. “Managing people means understanding their motivations, addressing conflicts constructively, and building trust.”

Looking Ahead

Melissa is enthusiastic about her journey into leadership. “The transition is both challenging and rewarding,” she shares.

“I’m grateful for the solid foundation provided by UW-Madison’s MS in Biotechnology program and the guidance of mentors like Ashley.”

For Melissa, success as a group leader lies in fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and continuing to learn. With the support of her peers and mentors, she’s well-equipped to navigate this new chapter in her career.

Conclusion

Melissa and Ashley’s stories highlight the transformative impact of UW-Madison’s MS in Biotechnology program. By combining technical excellence with leadership training, the program prepares professionals to take on pivotal roles in the biotechnology industry. As Melissa steps into her role as a group leader, she exemplifies how education, mentorship, and determination can pave the way for career advancement.

Melissa and Ashley’s stories highlight the transformative impact of UW-Madison’s MS in Biotechnology program. By combining technical excellence with leadership training, the program prepares professionals to take on pivotal roles in the biotechnology industry. Since Melissa has stepped into her role as a group leader, she has shown how education, mentorship, and determination can pave the way for career advancement.