Kerri Fitzpatrick Puts Patients Front and Center

As a registered nurse, Kerri Fitzpatrick, National Director, Clinical Nurse Educators, has years of experience in oncology and a passion for helping meet the needs of people facing serious diseases. Learn more about why she felt joining Gilead was the right next step in her career.

Q: What drew you to your field and how did you come to work at Gilead?

A: I’ve had an unusual, but amazing career path. I’ve been a registered nurse for 30 years. I’m board-certified in oncology nursing, and I have clinical oncology experience in both in-patient and out-patient settings, as well as experience in running clinical trials. I transitioned to the biopharmaceutical industry 20 years ago. Since then, I have served in a variety of roles, including National Director of Sales and National Director of Oncology Nurse Educators. My passion is in developing individuals and high-performing teams, and it was the opportunity to do that here that brought me to Gilead.

Q: Why did you choose Gilead?

A: I’ve long admired Gilead as a company that delivers life-changing medicines. As a nurse, I see a huge part of my role as being an advocate, and I was looking for a company that puts patients front and center in everything it does. I found this at Gilead.

Q: How would you describe the company’s culture?

A: The culture at Gilead is diverse and recognizes the unique contributions each individual brings to the table. It is evident that we’re all here because we truly want to make a difference in the lives of people with life-threatening diseases. Gilead’s culture is one that is based on collaboration, motivation and support, and that’s what drives high levels of performance.

Q: What was your most memorable day at Gilead, and what made it special? 

A: The level of support and partnership I’ve experienced at Gilead – throughout the entire recruiting process and every day since joining – is unlike what I’ve seen at any other company. My first day was certainly the most memorable so far. I received many welcome messages from colleagues and leaders letting me know how excited they were to have me on board, providing their personal phone numbers and encouraging me to get in touch if there was anything I needed. These may have been small gestures, but to me they confirmed I was a welcomed and valued employee.

Q: Why is working at Gilead more than "just a job"?

A: Working for a company that is committed to creating a healthier world is a big responsibility. Gilead holds its values very high and as an employee I know the work I do needs to be nothing less than the best. To accomplish this, I have the best possible resources, support and people behind me. It’s a rare opportunity, and it’s one I hope to continue to have for a long time to come.