Biographical Summary

Named "One to Watch" in Pharmaceutical Executive's magazine's 2008 "45 Under 45", Mary Szela's stellar corporate career unfolded almost entirely at Abbott Laboratories until 2013, when she left the company to become CEO of Rib-X Pharmaceuticals, a drug company that is focused on addressing drug-resistant bacteria, also known as "super bugs." The Illinois native started her healthcare career as a nurse, working at the University of Illinois Hospital after graduating from that institution. She soon moved to the business side of healthcare, leveraging her hospital knowledge into a position with Abbott's Hospital Products division. She quickly rose through the ranks eventually moving into sales and marketing of pharmaceutical brands, which she most recently led as Senior Vice President of Global Strategic Marketing. She is a frequent panel speaker on the role of women in the healthcare field, and the importance of advocacy, mentorship and networking for career success.