The finalists for WashingtonExec’s 2024 Pinnacle Awards were announced Sept. 20, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person Nov. 21.
Next is Dr. Kimberly Nettles, oncology, DEI lead for Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, and finalist in the Healthcare Executive of the Year, Public Company, category. Here, she talks about recent achievements, shares career advice and more.
What key achievements did you have in 2024?
- Receiving Multiple Prestigious Awards: I was honored with several prestigious awards, including Washington Business Journal 40 Under 40; Modern Healthcare’s 40 Under 40 for Young Executives; National Minority Quality Business Forum Health Equity Leader Award; and 40 under 40 in Cancer, and Power 50 under 40 for U.S. Black Chamber Inc.
- Championed health equity in cancer research through sponsorships and contributions in organizations such as American Society of Hematology and Community Oncology Alliance.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are those so important to the mission?
Innovative Partnerships and Collaborations: Building global strategic partnerships across the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors to foster innovation in therapeutic development. These collaborations will support my mission of advancing cutting-edge treatments and ensuring they reach patients effectively.
What is your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
Seek Leadership Opportunities Early: Don’t wait for leadership to come to you — actively seek out roles that allow you to manage projects, lead teams, or contribute to strategic initiatives. Start by leading smaller initiatives and progressively take on more complex responsibilities, as leadership experience is critical for advancement.
Fun Fact: What is something about you that most people do not know about? (Hobbies, passions, etc?)
I am a lover of everything nature and the outdoors. I am competing in an international marathon course this month, am a certified advanced PADI scuba diver and summitted Mt. Kilimanjaro a few years ago.