Voices of U of U Health
From One Leader to Another: Words of Wisdom from Michael Dowling
After more than 23 years as president and chief executive officer of Northwell Health, Michael Dowling recently announced he is stepping down from leading New York’s largest health system. Known for his commitment to purpose-driven culture, forward-thinking leadership, and community-focused care, Dowling leaves behind a legacy that reshaped how health systems think and serve.
To honor the impact of this transformational thought leader, we compiled some words of wisdom he shared with University of Utah Health leaders during his 2024 visit.
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Start with Purpose. Every Monday, Dowling made a point of attending employee orientation to help new team members understand why their work matters—and why they matter to the work. People want more than employment. They want purpose, connection, and a clear understanding of the mission.
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Leading Well Means Listening to Every Part. Leading a health system is like conducting a symphony. Every section—nurses, physicians, administrative staff, and support teams—has its own rhythms, strengths, and challenges. The leader’s job is to bring them together.
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Promote from Passion, Not Pedigree. “Yesterday’s solutions won’t solve tomorrow’s problems.” With that mindset, Dowling emphasizes the importance of innovation and looking beyond the perfect résumé. Hire people who are willing to question habits, challenge assumptions, and explore new approaches.
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Every Interaction Matters. Caring for patients doesn’t stop at clinical care. Dowling believes the way health systems serve patients—through food, environment, and attention to detail—shapes how people feel about their care. To put that belief into practice, he hired a former Ritz-Carlton executive to reimagine hospitality across Northwell Health. The updated food service was so well received, patients joked about him opening a restaurant.
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See the Whole Picture. “The job [of health system leaders] is more than just running our organizations. Remember that the people who work in organizations are also members of the community,” Dowling advised. Health care is shaped by the everyday systems people rely on—education, safety, housing, and more. Dowling challenges leaders to consider how health systems can strengthen the communities they are part of. For him, that meant creating new pathways to health careers and helping build a workforce that reflects and supports those communities.
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Speak Up, Even When It’s Hard. Dowling sees a clear role for health care leaders in confronting the issues that harm their communities. He’s been vocal about gun violence and other public health challenges, urging leaders to move beyond operational concerns and engage in the broader conversations shaping health.
As the Michael Dowling era comes to a close, we honor and celebrate a legendary leader who always put people first. “There’s a difference between having a title and being a leader,” he said.