HDA’s Faces of the Supply Chain Highlights Advice for Future Distribution Leaders
The healthcare distribution sector offers unique career paths for individuals looking to make a meaningful impact on patient care while growing professionally in an innovative industry.
In the latest episodes of HDA’s Faces of the Supply Chain video series, industry leaders reflected on their own professional journeys to share advice with the next generation of supply chain leaders.
Adopting a Patient-First Mindset
Several supply chain leaders reflected on the patient-centric focus of healthcare distribution, encouraging young professionals to find a clear sense of purpose.
Jesse Bronson II, Replenishment Buyer, Cencora, called on those in the industry to remember “who’s at the end of the line.” “At the end of the day,” he said, “our work has an ultimate goal of serving a patient.”
Similarly, Nicole Duggins, Director of Pharmacy Services, Advantus Health Partners, encouraged leaders to “Make sure that you understand healthcare, that you understand the rights of the patient, and that you understand the urgency behind medication needs,” she recommended.
Leading with Curiosity
For those just starting out in the industry, staying curious and open to new opportunities is critical for career growth. As a newcomer to healthcare, Dawson Gamble, Sales Executive, Inmar Intelligence advised peers to ask questions. “Don’t be afraid to learn, don’t be afraid to fail,” he encouraged.
Mike Gonsman, Warehouse General Manager, Value Drug Company, echoed this sentiment and emphasized the broad range of career opportunities available. “If you have a goal of getting into supply chain, there’s somewhere out there you can be part of it … whether its logistics, transportation, warehousing, distribution …you have an opportunity,” he said.
Alexa Garrett, Head of Customer Experience & Logistics, Sandoz, encouraged others to maximize their learning opportunities. “There [are] so many different things to learn," she noted. "And if you keep your mind open to learning all of them, you never know what direction that’s going to take you.”
HDA’s Commitment to Career Growth
HDA is committed to supporting member company employees through initiatives that invest in their growth and advance their careers.
- Our Employee Resource Network (ERN) offers networking, education and career development programming to help professionals from across the supply chain connect on shared experiences, challenges and interests. ERN provided member Jesse Bronson II the opportunity to engage with others and build community. “To connect with other people ... especially in a professional realm, I jumped at the opportunity.” This summer, HDA is hosting the inaugural ERN Summit on August 20–21 in Conshohocken, Pa. The event will bring ERN members together to network, hear from industry executives, participate in a leadership workshop and more.
- To support the growing interest in supply chain careers, HDA’s Career Center showcases a variety of positions across the industry. With more than 4,000 monthly visitors, the site is connecting supply chain companies with qualified candidates.
- HDA’s Emerging Leaders Program equips future leaders with the tools they need to navigate challenges and advance in their careers.
Through HDA’s robust resources, mentorship opportunities and a strong professional network, the next generation is poised to step into these roles and create meaningful impact. To learn more about HDA’s professional development programming, click here.
HDA’s Faces of the Supply Chain brings to life the people behind the scenes who make the healthcare supply chain work. For more unique perspectives, check out the full series.