June 4, 2024
GCI Health recently kicked off Inspired Exchanges, a new internal series featuring spirited conversations between its Global CEO, Kristin Cahill, and GCI Health leaders as they share everything from trends shaping the healthcare industry to what motivates them personally and professionally.
The inaugural session featured a compelling discussion between Kristin Cahill and Trey Watkins, EVP of Global Health and Corporate Impact. Watkins began his healthcare career as a strategist for the World Health Organization and the United Nations and he served as a global health advisor to organizations like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. In addition to his role at GCI Health, Watkins is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and is a registered yoga instructor. His non-traditional career path to agency life informs a unique perspective on global health. During a wide-ranging conversation, they covered topics like leadership, career journeys and the future of global health communications.
The first topic tackled was the fluctuating reputation of the pharma industry, especially in the context of COVID-19. “So, from a global health and a corporate social impact standpoint, what do you think we can be doing as an industry to improve our clients’ reputations?” Cahill asked. Watkins highlighted the need for companies to focus on specific areas where they can have the greatest impact rather than trying to do everything. “Part of that is … corporate communications and thinking about how our corporate leaders, our CEOs, are communicating in relatable, authentic ways and how they’re partnering with and showing up with communities – not in communities — but with communities,” explained Watkins.
The other vital part, according to Watkins, focuses on ESG and impact, which he noted are “drivers of reputation and trust.” Despite today’s politicized climate around ESG, he said, “one of the things we need to do as an industry is double down.” He added, “We’re living in a time where business and purpose can no longer be mutually exclusive.” But, to build back trust, Watkins cautions, ESG efforts need to be part of a company’s DNA. While some may view ESG as a distraction to business growth, Watkins pointed out that “when done right,” ESG can drive business growth. “You can be a company that’s investing in and improving the health of your business, society and the planet,” he said.
Advice for Individuals with Non-Traditional Backgrounds
Watkins shared his non-traditional career path to working at a healthcare communications agency. He “spent a number of years working for a global health NGO in DC, working in countries around the world.” Following that was a stint at a PR firm and then a move to work for the United Nations where he was “helping to lead policy and advocacy work around a public/private partnership focused exclusively on malaria.”
Watkins encouraged others from non-traditional agency backgrounds to recognize the power in their unique perspectives. “Be patient with yourself. The learning curve is steep, for sure. It’s about finding that common ground and giving yourself that space and grace to grow and stumble.” He also noted that when you have a different perspective, that’s a good thing. “That difference is your power.”
Aside from believing in the power of silence, Watkins shared his personal mantra: “I am learning, I am growing, I am evolving, I am becoming.” This reflects his belief in continuous learning and growth, a principle that resonates deeply in the dynamic field of health communications.
Future of Health Communications
The conversation also focused on the exciting future of healthcare communications. Watkins is inspired by “the power of communications to shape narratives and drive action for impact,” particularly in combating misinformation and engaging with diverse communities.
He noted that the next generation is “one of the most diverse generations we’ve ever had.” Harnessing that energy and will to act for issues related to health, like young people are doing now around climate, is a tremendous opportunity.
The Inspired Exchanges session offered valuable insights and underscored the importance of embracing unique perspectives and leveraging the power of communications to create meaningful impact in global health.
Next up in GCI Health’s Inspired Exchange series, Cahill will interview Amy Inzanti, Global Chief Insights and Strategies Officer, Bailey Roy, Head of Research and Analytics and Kristin Ryan, U.S. Digital and Innovation Lead.