During this Women’s History Month, UCB congratulates two women leaders who have made a significant contribution to our organization - Patty Fritz, Head of U.S. Corporate Affairs, and Bianca Anderson, Digital Communications Lead, for their recognition by the Healthcare Businesswomen's Association (HBA) as 2024 Luminary and Rising Star, respectively.

As a Corporate Partner of HBA, and specific to the healthcare industry, UCB nominates two individuals annually who are Rising Stars or Luminaries (20+ years in the industry). Luminaries are seasoned professionals who have greatly impacted the healthcare industry, serving as a role model and driving impactful progress; and Rising Stars exemplify leadership and contribute significantly to many parts of the organization.

We are honored to have leaders like Patty and Bianca, who are industry trailblazers and enrich our environment with unique perspectives and experiences. We applaud them both and the other awardees for their well-deserved recognition!

About Patty

Patty has been with UCB for more than 30 years, joining the organization in 1994. As the Head of U.S. Corporate Affairs, she leads public policy, government affairs, advocacy, communications, public affairs, and sustainability, as well as UCB’s office and strategic priorities in Washington, D.C. Patty leads efforts to create value for patients and their families through strategic engagement and positively influencing the healthcare environment and policy landscape. In her role, Patty finds opportunities to better understand the unique needs of patients, so we can continue delivering value. She is a champion of innovative projects to spotlight the importance of access and care for people living with severe diseases.

Patty has made a significant impact in different leadership roles across UCB, including regulatory affairs, operational excellence, government affairs, health policy, and UCBCares®. Prior to joining UCB, Patty held positions with the government and industry in regulatory affairs, clinical development, and research. 

Outside of UCB, Patty serves as chair of the board of directors for IVI and as a member of The Carter Center Board of Councilors. She splits her time between Washington, D.C., and Atlanta, where she enjoys spending time with her family.

“I have always believed that my purpose was to serve people who need support, and for more than 30 years at UCB, I’ve had the opportunity to help people living with severe and chronic diseases access our solutions. I’m so humbled to receive the HBA Luminary recognition as we continue the critical work of bringing medicines to the people who need them,” said Patty. 

About Bianca

Bianca, a former UCB intern, joined UCB in 2019 and currently serves as the U.S. Communications Digital Lead, overseeing the strategy for U.S. digital properties. In this role, Bianca is responsible for pulling through corporate and business communications strategies externally while ensuring seamless content delivery across UCB’s core functions and disease areas. Passionate about storytelling and digital, Bianca enjoys leveraging digital channels to bring narratives to life in innovative ways. She remains abreast of trends to effectively communicate UCB's people, purpose, science, and enterprise stories.

Prior to joining UCB, Bianca worked in the financial services industry at Equitable Holdings, managing communications for the Alabama and Georgia territories. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications with a focus in Public Relations from Kennesaw State University.

“Being recognized as a HBA rising star during Women’s History Month is empowering, and I’m elated to receive this honor among other women who exemplify transformative leadership. This recognition fuels my passion to continue breaking barriers, inspiring others, and shaping an inclusive future where every woman's potential is celebrated and recognized,” said Bianca.

In her leisure time, Bianca enjoys participating in UCB's Toastmasters chapter, exploring new cultures through travel, prioritizing health and wellness, and cherishes spending quality time with her family.

HBA will host the Woman of the Year Event in New York City and virtually on Friday, May 10, where Rising Stars and Luminaries will be recognized and the achievements of remarkable leaders in the healthcare industry will be celebrated.

Congratulations again to Patty and Bianca – we’re proud to honor you and are grateful for the important roles you both play in the lives of those at UCB and in creating value for people living with severe diseases.