Editor’s note: At Johnson & Johnson, we occasionally like to share an ‘inside out’ perspective about our company and our employees. Recently, we hosted the “Helping Our Neighbors with Our Resources” (H.O.N.O.R.) Awards at our corporate headquarters in New Brunswick, New Jersey. These awards, in memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., honor our employees and members of the local community who have demonstrated a passion for others through their caring and service, including their work with our company Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and diversity and inclusion in general. (You can learn more about our ERGs here.)
One of the employees recognized at the event was Joaquin Duato, Worldwide Chairman, Pharmaceuticals at Johnson & Johnson. Joaquin is the executive sponsor of the African-American Leadership Council, an Employee Resource Group at Johnson & Johnson. Below are excerpts from Joaquin’s remarks.
Joaquin’s Remarks:
When I learned I was receiving this award for leadership and encouragement of the Employee Resource Groups at Johnson & Johnson, I was humbled. Martin Luther King Jr. is the epitome of a remarkable leader who changed the lives of millions.
Many people remember Dr. King as an eloquent speaker. However, his legacy is rooted in much more than the words he spoke. His deep passion and purpose compelled people to believe in and take action to advance humanity, diversity and equality.
He always challenged those around him, asking, “What are you doing for others?”
I admire those values in a leader, and I have embraced them, reminding our employees, and myself, to always think about our purpose – to help people live healthier and happier lives… To always think of the people we serve – people who are waiting for hope in the form of innovative medicines… And to approach each day with passion because we must continue to make extraordinary efforts so people can enjoy everyday moments.
At Johnson & Johnson, we have extraordinary talent and proven leaders who act with passion and with purpose. In addition, our Employee Resource Groups such as the African American Leadership Council help us drive outcomes that make a difference in patients’ lives. These employee groups offer expertise and input for our strategies that can help us better understand and connect with culturally diverse communities and underserved markets. They also foster a more inclusive environment and drive innovation.
Throughout my career, I have led teams across many countries and cultures. I have seen first-hand the importance and the power of diverse perspectives. I see diversity as a strength. It is a competitive advantage to engage a multitude of viewpoints and the ideas that emerge from bringing people from different backgrounds together are always stronger.
However, it is not enough to simply value diversity. We also need to take action, to bring about and sustain positive change.
For myself and the global organization I lead, I will continue to encourage personal accountability. All of us should be asking ourselves, “What am I doing for others today?” This is the only way we will continue to make a difference.
