Spotlight on … Karen Rowley of Infusion Network
Please describe your position/business, and how you got where you are today.
I am currently in the position of chief executive officer for the Infusion Network. We are an independent infusion pharmacy working with nursing agencies and hospice services to provide infusion therapy to patients in their homes as well as in our ambulatory infusion suite. I started with the company in 1997 as a Certified Pharmacy Technician and took advantage of the opportunities present to me and worked my way up within the organization.
What professional and community organizations do you belong to?
I am a member of the American Business Women’s Association, National Home Infusion Association, New England Medical Equipment Dealer Association, Cape Cod Community Care Resource Group and Bristol Networking Group.
Do you think there is a difference between being a businessperson and a businesswoman?
I don’t think there is a difference between being a businessperson and a businesswoman.
How important is networking, as a woman and as a businessperson on Cape Cod?
I think networking as a woman and as a businessperson on Cape Cod is very important. It gives you the opportunity to get yourself and your business out in front of people, make some great contacts and learn about the community and how you as an individual or as a company support the community.
What are the greatest challenges and opportunities facing entrepreneurs on Cape Cod?
Personally I feel the only challenges are the ones you create yourself. As long as you have a plan and set goals, you can overcome any challenges and create endless possibilities for yourself as well as for your business.
What does it take to be a successful businessperson here?
A successful businessperson anywhere understands the challenges that their business or industry is going to face and develops and implements a plan for success.
Do you have a mentor, and if so, how has she/he helped your professional development?
I have had a few mentors in my life that have helped me grow as a professional in the infusion industry, but the most important mentors in my life have been my parents, who taught me the value of treating people with respect and learning the fundamentals of business at a young age.
Are you satisfied with the professional development opportunities on Cape Cod?
I am satisfied with the professional development opportunities – there are many resources for businesses on Cape Cod, from starting a business to selling the business you created.
What advice do you have for other women trying to be successful businesspeople and entrepreneurs on the Cape?
Go for it! If you are passionate and believe in what you are doing and believe in yourself, you can be successful. Take advantage of every opportunity to network and learn from other people’s experiences.
Published in Cape Business July/August 2007
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