Leading with Integrity

Judy Doo, Vice President, Creative Studio & Design, Revance, is a proponent of interaction and collaboration, and personally not afraid to get her hands dirty, get into the trenches, and problem-solve with subject-matter experts and creators to ensure all perspectives and experiences are valued, considered, and integrated as appropriate. This has resulted in game-changing, all-hands strategic decision-making that has helped steer the company's upward trajectory.

Judy manages within the guardrails while still thinking outside the box and steadfastly commits to the employees, trying to give them the benefit of the doubt and play to individual strengths. By identifying and bringing out the best in each team member, she has encouraged synergistic connections within the group. “As a woman of color, I have been able to provide context and foster adoption of diversity, equity, and inclusion, making the Studio a welcome home for talent from all walks of life and life experiences,” says Judy. “My breadth of experience across organizational settings (i.e., healthcare ad/marketing agency, external contractor to corporate entities, a leader within in-house corporate) allows me to share a spectrum of perspectives and help integrate best practices.”

The steadfast leader’s style is to lead by example. For example, she tries to demonstrate the value of concepts that have served her well (i.e., staying present in the moment but keeping sight of future developments, infusing humanity and a sense of humor through adversity, and balancing both personal and professional development). Regarding her direct report managers, she wants them to take the reins, manage their people, develop their voice and style of interaction, and provide constructive feedback (being firm yet flexible) with the talent leading them toward success.

“I define “success” as a combination of personal and professional growth/productivity/satisfaction/happiness. Success means not only delivering stellar services and work, but that you are also fulfilled to come in to work every day, contribute, and make a positive impact,” explains Judy. “When I was in my mid-30s and starting to teach and mentor people, I learned a great lesson about supervising and leadership. In order to successfully lead a generation of workers—potentially a decade younger—you need to know how to work with them and recognize that they may see things through a different lens.” Judy states that leadership also allows one to step back, learn, and assess, “What can I learn from this scenario? What went right or wrong?” Self-reflection can inform future decisions and ultimately make everyone a better leader.

She believes all leaders-in-training should remember that it’s ok to change course. “Trust your gut. If something seems off or is challenging you in an unproductive or destructive way, it’s not helping you grow. Knowing when to pivot or look for new opportunities is an important part of anyone’s journey, no matter where you are in your career journey,” elucidates Judy, who has been leading the company to great heights with her brilliant ideology.

Revance is a biotechnology company setting the new standard in healthcare by elevating patient and physician experiences through the development, acquisition, and commercialization of innovative aesthetic and therapeutic offerings. Revance has been committed to scientific innovation and investment in its people from the very start. The company is passionate about its contributions and unique value proposition to the industry. However, they could not have done this without their employees' support and tour de force. As the company continues to grow, the quality of its talent and cohesive internal culture will consistently differentiate Revance from any other biotech company out there.

The Studio at Revance is a diverse and evolving department, always hiring and refining its talent. “We strive to help our employees find their footing and develop their success both personally and professionally. We also believe the Studio should feel like home for our talent—a place and space to explore, connect, and create,” adds Judy. “As we expand with more indications in the U.S., as well as increase our international footprint, the possibilities for Revance are endless. Both Revance and the Studio at Revance are nimble, swift, and decisive.”

The combination of innovative products and services, sound yet unique strategies, and a talented, motivated workforce is in place to propel the company forward in forthcoming, enterprise-evolving moments. For Judy personally, she wants to build from the strong foundation they have created in the Studio at Revance and continue to retain talent, gain credibility, fortify its identity, and create unique, memorable work that resonates with their commercial strategies and is revered by their peers. “The future of Revance is bright and I’m excited to be here for what’s to come,” concludes Judy.