Leadership Insights: How to Rise Through the Ranks of Your Organization—Even to CEO

When some HR leaders or recruiters look at your resume, it may be a turnoff to be at one organization for more than 10 years. But for Northwell Health, the largest not-for-profit health system in the Northeast, it is a badge of honor. People not only want to stay but also want to rise through the ranks because they care about the work they do. John D’Angelo, MD, felt this way. A Long Islander, he began at Northwell in 2000, serving at one of its community hospitals as an emergency medicine physician. He’s been at the system ever since, working his way up from specific hospitals to leading emergency medicine teams through COVID-19 and overseeing the health system’s largest service area. D’Angelo became president and CEO of the health system in late 2025.

This session offers a unique opportunity to hear D’Angelo's inspiring journey from emergency room physician to one of the nation's leading healthcare CEOs. He will share actionable insights, practical advice and explore key principles that have guided his path. He will discuss the importance of presence and focus, emphasizing how recognizing and seizing opportunities can propel careers forward. He'll share anecdotes from his time in the emergency room, highlighting the invaluable lessons learned under pressure and the foundational importance of staying humble, personable and always prioritizing the patient. While the role of CEO may seem a distant aspiration for many, D’Angelo will demonstrate that it is an achievable goal. He will demystify the path to leadership, offering practical strategies and concrete steps you can take to advance your careers. This presentation promises to be both motivational and informative, providing you with a roadmap to navigate the complexities of the healthcare industry and reach your full leadership potential.