Krista Dusil, Principal and CFO UHG Ventures
Over 16 years of progressive movement and promotions within the largest health insurance company in the U.S. have brought Krista to her current role as Principal and CFO of UnitedHealth Group Ventures. This sector is an independent fund of UHG that acts as a venture capital firm of sorts, investing in healthcare and technology start-ups. It’s a fast-paced world that attracts uber-smart and visionary talent. How she has been able to navigate the waters and what keeps her energy refreshed made Scouts Talent curious to learn more…
If you could try a different job for a day, what would you choose?
I would love to be a professional golfer on tour. Assuming that in this fantasy day, I can magically inherit the skills of a professional golfer.
What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry?
Health care touches every single human in the world, yet it is still such a broken industry. Make it your mission and your responsibility to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. I’m proud to work for a company that encourages me to do that every single day.
What is your mantra?
If you get knocked down, get back up again. Life can seem like a roller coaster, whether it’s personally or professionally. How you persevere through the hard times is the true measure of your character.
How do you get yourself out of a slump?
Getting my heart pumping always does the trick for me. Boxing is my favorite workout – a few jabs at a punching bag melts away any slump!
What companies or leaders do you admire?
I admire leaders whose actions follow their words. This is key to building the foundation for an empowered and high-performing team.
What has been the biggest shift you’ve noticed in your industry in the last decade?
The shift I’ve noticed is the need for companies to diversify into all areas of the health care delivery system.
Who has been most instrumental in your career?
I’ve been fortunate to work with many great leaders in my career. The most impactful advice I received was to leave my finance comfort zone and broaden my horizons. Since then, all of the various roles I’ve held have helped me develop a well-rounded skillset, which has become rare in the highly specialized and functional roles of many large companies today.
What is your go-to celebration meal, drink, or tradition?
I always let my kids choose their favorite restaurants for any celebration. As they grow up, I’m hoping their choices might start aligning to mine a bit more! Rainbow pancakes at Perkins are great and all, but…
