Get to know author Véronique
Seven questions and answers with Véronique Peiffer, author of The Scrappy Entrepreneur
1. What inspired you to become an author and write “The Scrappy Entrepreneur”?
My journey as a startup founder and the challenges I faced along the way inspired me to write this book. Although I read up on entrepreneurship before launching my venture, I found many crucial topics overlooked. Many entrepreneurship books assume access to substantial funding, while in reality innovation-driven startups often operate for years with very limited resources. I wanted to create a resource for those scrappy entrepreneurs who are navigating the often rocky road of startup life.
2. Can you share a bit about your background and how you got into entrepreneurship?
I hold a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering (KULeuven, Belgium), along with a PhD in Aeronautics/Bioengineering (Imperial College London, UK). My career began in management consulting at McKinsey & Company. Always having had a passion about the healthcare industry, my interest in entrepreneurship was ignited when I read “Biodesign: The Process of Innovation Medical Technologies” by Yock, Zenios, Makower et al. Reading this book led me to participate in the Biodesign Innovation Fellowship at Stanford University, where I was fortunate enough to spin out a company (palmm Co.).
3. What do you do currently?
I serve as the Director of Market Access at Genentech, focusing on innovative initiatives to help healthcare providers navigate the complex reimbursement landscape. Additionally, as the Associate Director of the Stanford Mussallem Center for Biodesign, I have the privilege of teaching and mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs. And of course, I just authored a book on early-stage entrepreneurship!
4. With a full-time job, how do you find time to write?
Funny enough, I began writing this book during my maternity leave! Knowing I’d have about three months off, I wanted to do something meaningful beyond the usual parenting tasks. I wrote about 70% of the book during that time, but it took me two more years to refine and complete it.
5. Where are you from?
I currently live in the San Francisco Bay Area with my husband and our two children. I was born and raised in Belgium, and completed my PhD degree in London, which remains one of my favorite cities. After spending a few years back in Belgium, I moved to the USA in 2015.
6. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
My family and I love exploring the great outdoors together. Personally, I enjoy running, baking, and playing the piano—each activity offers me a wonderful way to unwind.
7. What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Staying scrappy and resilient is key to overcoming challenges. Remember, every successful entrepreneur started from the ground up, so take that first step and keep moving forward!
For more advice, you’ll have to read my book! Find out where to get it here.