B-NOW: The women-led movement driving innovation at Bristol Myers Squibb

As innovation continues to advance quickly, the value of diverse thinking in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) has never been more evident. Gender diversity in these fields helps unlock better ideas, sharper problem-solving and stronger results.

At Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), this understanding shapes how the company supports and develops talent. Through B-NOW (Bristol Myers Squibb Network of Women), women at all levels are offered opportunities to grow their careers, take on leadership roles, and connect through a global network focused on progress and performance.

B-NOW is part of a global network of People and Business Resource Groups, and its purpose is to drive business performance by embracing gender diversity. This means championing women’s development, creating advancement opportunities and supporting recruitment and retention in a culture that prioritises inclusion.

At the heart of this effort is the belief that all women at BMS, worldwide, should have the resources, support and community they need to thrive.

Leading with purpose

B-NOW’s work reflects a broader, intentional commitment to systemic change. Rather than functioning as a side project or awareness drive, B-NOW is fully integrated into how the company nurtures talent, develops leaders and measures success.

The Ireland Chapter of B-NOW, led by Lynne Dalton, Associate Director, Quality Operations and B-NOW lead for BMS Ireland, plays a key role in this effort locally. Activities range from professional development sessions and leadership opportunities to networking events and mentoring programmes. Members are also encouraged to connect with external peer networks, such as the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association, expanding their access to knowledge, support and visibility within the industry.

“One of the most valuable things about B-NOW is the sense of connection it creates across our sites in Ireland,” says Dalton. “Our female colleagues, across business units, departments and career focus, have an amazing support network of peers all aiming to drive business performance at BMS by embracing gender diversity. Females have the opportunity to advance to their desired career levels and learn from each other – understanding that there are opportunities to develop, advance, be recruited and retained globally within a culture that prioritises this mission.”

For women in STEM roles, whether in research labs, clinical development, data science or engineering, initiatives like B-NOW help ensure they’re not only represented but uplifted.

Innovation through inclusion

Research has long shown that diverse teams lead to better business outcomes, and in the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors, this is especially true. Inclusion fosters creativity, collaboration and critical thinking, all of which are essential to solving complex scientific problems.

By supporting women in STEM, BMS is not only closing the gender gap but also strengthening its ability to innovate. More inclusive teams bring broader perspectives to scientific discovery, patient care and breakthrough solutions.

Women at BMS are contributing to meaningful advances in cancer research, immunology and cardiovascular science. Their contributions underscore the value of creating an environment where diverse voices are heard and supported.

B-NOW is also a vibrant, collaborative community of people who believe in the power of gender diversity to drive progress. Whether someone joins to gain leadership experience, learn a new skill or find a mentor, the benefits are clear.

Members join for many reasons, including:

• Supporting the mission of advancing gender diversity in business
• Developing new capabilities by leading or contributing to workstreams
• Networking with peers, mentors and external experts
• Finding inspiration and solidarity in a shared purpose

Across Ireland and globally, B-NOW continues to grow, powered by passion, commitment and the belief that when women support women, everyone benefits.

As part of this ongoing initiative, we’ll be sharing a series of interviews with female STEM leaders at BMS, highlighting their journeys, achievements, and the work still to be done.

To learn more about Bristol Myers Squibb and its B-Now PBRG initiative, visit bms.com/ie.

NO-IE-2500024 | August 2025