Keren Leshem’s journey into the healthcare industry is a testament to her passion for making a difference in the lives of others. Born in the USA and later returning to Israel to join the army, Keren’s professional path has been shaped by diverse experiences in the biotech sector. Her career started in Israel’s dynamic start-up ecosystem, where she played a key role in accelerator and incubator programs that supported and led startups in various healthcare fields. It was through these experiences that she discovered her deep connection to healthcare and the potential to impact lives in meaningful ways.
Keren’s entry into the healthcare industry was marked by a role at an investment firm, where she managed a portfolio company. This was followed by her position at VISUfarma, a European pharmaceutical company, where she served as VP of Corporate Development. During this time, she developed a strong understanding of the complexities involved in the healthcare field, especially in terms of clinical research, business development, and regulatory requirements. In 2019, Keren took a significant step in her career by joining OCON Therapeutics, transitioning into the women’s health sector. She was drawn to this field because of the many unmet needs and the potential to revolutionize how women’s health is approached globally. As CEO of OCON Therapeutics, Keren now leads a team dedicated to developing safe and effective solutions for women’s health, leveraging proprietary technology that addresses some of the most common conditions affecting over 35% of women worldwide.
When reflecting on her most significant achievement in the healthcare industry, Keren humbly emphasizes the number of people whose lives she has touched through the solutions she has helped develop. Her impact extends beyond just the patients she serves through innovative healthcare solutions; she has also mentored and supported other startup CEOs and companies, helping them find success in a challenging industry. Keren’s determination to assist others in the healthcare ecosystem is a vital part of her legacy, and she is proud of the small but meaningful contribution she continues to make to the industry as a whole.
“The future of healthcare lies in understanding the unique needs of women. Personalized treatments and accessible solutions will transform lives globally.”
Over the years, Keren’s leadership style has evolved, particularly as she navigated the challenges of the healthcare industry. Early in her career, she tended to adopt a more solo leadership approach. However, with time, she has come to embrace a team-centric leadership style. As she puts it, “Together Everyone Achieves More.” She now places greater trust in her team members, giving them the freedom to take ownership of their tasks and make decisions, even if it means allowing them to make mistakes. Keren understands that fostering a culture of collaboration and learning ultimately leads to stronger outcomes and a more cohesive team. As a leader in healthcare, Keren faces numerous challenges, particularly in the area of women’s health. Regulatory hurdles are one of the most significant obstacles, often driving up the costs of R&D, clinical studies, and regulatory activities. These challenges are compounded by the difficulties of fundraising in an industry that requires substantial investment to bring new solutions to market. Despite these hurdles, Keren remains undeterred, using her experience and strategic acumen to navigate the complex landscape of healthcare.
While Keren is proud of the technological advancements and solutions her company has developed, she is equally passionate about giving back to the community. One of the most impactful initiatives she has led is the adoption of a college for women who have escaped the cycle of prostitution. Through this initiative, OCON Therapeutics provides these women with jobs—both long and short-term positions—that allow them to build professional experience and gain a reference on their CVs. This initiative has brought a sense of purpose to Keren and her team, reinforcing their commitment to creating positive change beyond just patient care. To stay at the forefront of the rapidly evolving healthcare industry, Keren actively participates in various healthcare groups and organizations around the world. She also serves on advisory boards and teams, offering her expertise to help shape the future of the industry. Interestingly, Keren also relies heavily on LinkedIn to stay informed about the latest trends, technologies, and advancements in healthcare. This platform serves as a valuable resource for her, connecting her with industry professionals and keeping her updated on innovations that can shape the future of women’s health.
Technology is at the core of OCON Therapeutics’ mission to improve healthcare for women. The company’s proprietary technology is designed to provide safe and effective treatments for a range of prevalent conditions affecting women globally. Keren and her team are dedicated to leveraging this technology to make a tangible difference in the lives of women, ensuring that the solutions they develop are accessible, effective, and aligned with the unique needs of women’s health. For Keren, communication is key to maintaining a motivated and aligned team. She believes in fostering a strong sense of unity within her organization, creating a family-like atmosphere where team members feel supported and empowered. Regular meetings, both formal and informal, help ensure that everyone stays connected to the organization’s goals and remains committed to its mission. Keren consistently reminds her team of the global impact they are making, reinforcing the importance of their work and the significance of the company’s global footprint.
OCON Therapeutics takes a proactive approach to addressing healthcare accessibility and equity, with a team and board composed of 85% women. This strong representation of women in leadership positions reflects the company’s commitment to advancing women in the healthcare sector and ensuring that their voices are heard. Keren is proud of the organization’s efforts to support women at every level and remains dedicated to promoting equity in healthcare access. Looking to the future, Keren envisions a healthcare system that provides better access to patients from remote or low-income communities. She is particularly passionate about the potential for more personalized healthcare solutions, with a focus on understanding the differences between men’s and women’s bodies. Keren believes that advances in diagnostics and treatments tailored specifically to women could lead to more accurate, timely care and significantly improve health outcomes for women worldwide.
“Together, everyone achieves more. Leadership is about empowering others to take risks, learn from their mistakes, and drive innovation.”
For aspiring leaders in the healthcare industry, Keren offers the following advice: embrace resilience and be fearless. The path to success in healthcare is filled with challenges, but it is essential to remain committed to your vision and values. Take calculated risks, learn from your failures, and surround yourself with a strong support network. Mentorship is also invaluable—seek out guidance from experienced professionals who can help you navigate the complexities of the industry. Above all, Keren stresses the importance of passion. Let your passion drive you forward and inspire you to make a meaningful difference in the world of healthcare. Keren Leshem’s journey in the healthcare industry exemplifies dedication, leadership, and innovation. Through her work at OCON Therapeutics and her commitment to improving women’s health, she continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals.