Lauren McClintic: Director of Operations at Pelago
By: Travis Hutton
Lauren McClintic is a dynamic professional with a robust psychology and corporate operations background. Raised in Montgomery Township, NJ, Lauren excelled as a high school soccer athlete and continued her athletic pursuits at the collegiate level. She has held significant roles throughout her career, including Director of Operations at Genoa Telepsychiatry and Sales Associate at Zimmer Biomet. Recently promoted to Director of Operations at Pelago, Lauren is passionate about healthcare startups and dedicated to balancing her demanding career and personal life.
What inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare startups?
My passion for healthcare startups was driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives through innovation. Working in the healthcare sector allows me to contribute to advancements that improve patient outcomes and access to care. The dynamic and fast-paced nature of startups also excites me, providing opportunities to explore new ideas and bring them to life. I find it incredibly rewarding to be part of a team that addresses pressing healthcare challenges with creative and practical solutions.
How has your background in psychology influenced your approach to market strategy and operations?
My background in psychology has been invaluable in understanding human behavior and decision-making, both of which are crucial in market strategy and operations. It has helped me develop a more empathetic and customer-centric approach, ensuring that we meet the needs of our clients and stakeholders. By applying psychological principles, I’m able to design strategies that resonate with our audience and create impactful campaigns. This understanding also helps in fostering a positive team environment by recognizing different perspectives and communication styles, which is essential for effective collaboration.
Can you share an example of a challenge you faced in your career and how you overcame it?
One significant challenge I faced early in my career was transitioning from a structured corporate environment to the dynamic world of startups. The unpredictability and fast pace were initially overwhelming, but I quickly realized that adaptability and resilience were key to thriving in this environment. I sought mentorship from experienced colleagues and took advantage of professional development opportunities to expand my skill set. By embracing the uncertainty and learning from each experience, I was able to grow into my role and become a valuable contributor to my team.
What role does technology play in your current role, and how do you leverage it for success?
Technology is central to my role as Director of Operations at Pelago. We leverage digital tools for data analysis, communication, and project management to streamline processes and enhance productivity. Platforms like Trello help us manage tasks and collaborate efficiently across teams, while data-driven decision-making tools allow us to stay competitive in the healthcare industry. Embracing technological advancements not only improves our services but also fosters innovation, enabling us to continuously adapt and grow in a rapidly changing landscape.
What advice would you give to someone looking to enter the healthcare startup industry?
For anyone looking to enter the healthcare startup industry, my advice is to stay curious and open-minded. The landscape is constantly evolving, so being adaptable and willing to learn is essential. Building a strong network is also crucial—connect with professionals in the field, attend industry events, and seek out mentorship opportunities. Finally, focus on developing both hard and soft skills—while technical expertise is important, the ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with diverse teams is equally vital. Above all, remain passionate about the impact you want to make, as this will drive you through the challenges and triumphs that come with working in such a dynamic industry.
Published by: Khy Talara
