Grace Cronin: ‘I had to be resilient in my career’

On the pull of BMS

When asked what sets Bristol Myers Squibb apart from her previous roles, Grace doesn’t hesitate. “What initially attracted me to BMS was the core principle of ‘science to medicine’ and how that drives everything we do,” she explains. “By focusing on innovation and cutting-edge science, we develop and deliver medicines that truly change people’s lives.”

That mission is matched by a strong presence both globally and in Ireland, creating opportunities to grow careers at every stage. With a long history and a wide range of established manufacturing and global functions, BMS offers fertile ground for career development. “There are so many opportunities here,” she says, noting the breadth of roles and pathways available.

But for her, the real pull is the culture of growth. “I really appreciate that BMS values the development of its people,” she explains. “With policies designed to support us, it means we can build meaningful careers across all stages of our working lives.” That commitment shows up in tangible ways: investment in training and upskilling, flexible career journeys and support for individuals navigating studies, raising a family, health challenges or caring responsibilities.

On her role

As senior director of manufacturing science and technology systems and engineering at Bristol Myers Squibb, Grace ensures BMS has the manufacturing capability to deliver today’s medicines and prepare for what’s next. “Our role is to be the voice of the manufacturing process, partnering with colleagues in R&D, manufacturing, quality and IT,” she explains.

Her team designs the equipment, processes and systems that bring medicines to life, while also driving BMS’s digital strategy. “We’re bringing automation and AI to how we work and to the manufacturing floor,” she says.

Despite their diverse backgrounds, the team is united by a shared purpose: getting medicines to patients faster. “A big focus now is using AI to shorten the time from research to patients,” she explains. “Our approach is digitally enabled but powered by people.”

On women embracing STEM roles 

Grace is an advocate for women in STEM and encourages more women to explore roles in the industry. “Science and engineering offer limitless possibilities,” she explains. “It’s not just about technical expertise; it’s about developing the ability to approach problems with analytical thinking and a systematic mindset. Those are skills you can apply to virtually any aspect of life.”

For women considering their next step, she believes STEM offers more than just a job; it also offers freedom. “These qualifications open doors to a diverse range of careers,” she notes. “In today’s world, where the ability to pivot and adapt is so valuable, pursuing science or engineering equips you with the tools to shape your own future and thrive in whatever industry you choose.”

On working in a male-dominated environment

Early in her career in engineering, Grace often found herself the only woman in the room. “I had to be resilient and stay motivated,” she recalls. “Even when I got comments like, ‘Are you really the engineer?’.”

Thankfully, she’s seen a real shift over the past 20 years. “Those outdated views have no place in today’s workplace,” she says. “Women now have strong representation across the industry, and there’s broad recognition that diverse teams simply perform better.”

She credits a senior female mentor with advice that still guides her: “Be excellent at what you do. Advocate for yourself and for others. That way, you succeed on your technical merit while building a community of support.”

On supporting each other in the industry 

For Grace, celebrating women in her industry isn’t optional but essential. “It’s about driving equity for all,” she says. “By empowering people and giving them the support they need, we level the playing field and open up opportunities for everyone.”

Her own path wasn’t always straightforward. “I was the first in my family to move from a traditional engineering role into science and pharma,” she explains. “I didn’t always have someone with similar experiences to lean on, so I relied heavily on peers, leaders and mentors.”

That’s why, when she joined BMS, the B-NOW (Bristol Myers Squibb Network of Women) group stood out immediately. “B-NOW creates a safe, empowering space and champions equity through mentoring and events,” she notes. “It was the first network I joined here, and supporting the work is something I’m passionate about.”

On the advice she would give 

In large organisations, Grace admits it can be easy to feel invisible. “That’s why it’s so important we champion one another, both when we’re in the room and when we’re not,” she says. “Many of the key discussions that shape our careers happen when we’re absent, so we rely on others to fly the flag for us.”

As a leader, she sees her role as creating space for growth. “I make sure people have the support they need,” she explains. “Remove roadblocks, and give them opportunities to learn and shine.”

And her advice for young women starting out? “Science and engineering are gateways to invaluable life skills and limitless careers,” she says. “Beyond the technical expertise, they teach analytical thinking and problem-solving, skills that give you confidence to shape your future on your own terms.”