Juli McWhorter has worked for more than 30 years at Springdale-based health system Northwest Health. She was named to her existing role in July after serving as CEO at Northwest Medical Center – Willow Creek Women’s Hospital in Johnson and Northwest Health Physicians’ Specialty Hospital in Fayetteville.
What is the best business advice someone has ever given you? Care deeply, one patient at a time. When the patient experience and quality come first, success naturally follows.
If you were not in your current role, what would you be doing? Bedside nursing.
How significantly has technology impacted your work? From electronic medical records to robotic surgery, technology has profoundly transformed health care — empowering us to deliver safer, smarter and more patient-centered care.
How do you handle pressure and stress in your leadership role? I focus on my purpose and the things I can control. I believe in working hard and playing hard, while always making time to rest, recharge, and surround myself with people who support and lift me up.
What advice would you give someone wanting to be a leader in your industry? Grit is essential in health care. Our work never pauses — 24/7, 365. What we do is not about moving widgets or producing numbers. It is about caring for people — the mother who raised a family, the brother who means the world to someone, the friend whose presence lights up a room.
How do you stay current with industry trends and changes? ACHE, publications and conferences.
Who are your favorite leaders, and why? Princess Diana is one of my favorite leaders because she showed the world that true leadership is rooted with compassion, empathy and the courage to be authentic.(Spanx founder) Sara Blakely is one of my favorite leaders because she shows that grit and determination are as important as vision. Her story is a reminder that setbacks are stepping stones to success.
What are some aspects of leadership you are still working to improve? Listening. When we take time to listen and genuinely hear what others have to offer, we unlock new ideas, build trust and create stronger teams.