Curiosity, Courage, and the Future of Healthcare: A Conversation with David Ricks

David Ricks, Chair and CEO of Eli Lilly and Company, joined the second in our Strategic Discussions on Health Care series produced in partnership with the Health Transformation Alliance (HTA), offering candid insight into how leadership, talent, public policy, and innovation are intersecting to shape the future of healthcare.

Leading with Curiosity: Ricks’ leadership philosophy is rooted in growth and adaptability. Reflecting on his own career at Lilly, where he was often placed in roles for which he had “no business doing,” he leaned into curiosity. This approach—what he calls the “best athlete” mindset—prioritizes agility over fixed skills. In a science-driven company where knowledge doubles every two years, Ricks emphasized curiosity and the ability to ask thoughtful questions as keys to growth and invention.

The “Hand-in-Glove Partnership”: CEO + CHRO: For Ricks, HR isn’t just about finding talent— it’s about defining culture and values. Talent strategy, in other words, is brand strategy. The CHRO not only ensures alignment with company values but also shapes how the organization is positioned in the marketplace—and in the world—to attract the best talent.

Cracks and Opportunities in the U.S. Healthcare System: Ricks didn’t shy away from the big picture challenges. He highlighted the constraints of ERISA and the entrenched role of traditional PBMs as barriers to innovation and transparency. Lilly is taking a different path by contracting directly with employers and the public to offer best pricing and greater clarity. In his view, reducing friction in the system is critical to lowering costs and improving access.

Tackling Obesity—and Transforming Care: Among the most exciting opportunities, Ricks discussed the potential of GLP-1 medicines to revolutionize healthcare. With obesity driving roughly a third of costs, these treatments could dramatically reduce long-term healthcare spending. He envisions a future in which individuals enter Medicare healthier, cutting systemic costs while improving outcomes.

AI: An Exciting Disruption: From cutting drug development timelines in half to eliminating unnecessary administrative costs, Ricks shared how AI is reshaping the way medicines are discovered, manufactured, and delivered.

The Takeaway: David Ricks left with a clear message: leading with curiosity, empowering talent, and embracing bold innovation aren’t just business strategies—they’re imperatives for reshaping healthcare and improving lives.