Welcome Oliva , please tell us about yourself.

I’m a connector. I’m a culture creator. I’m a creative. As a proud Bronx native, I embody the vibrant energy and a commitment to the belief that everything is connected—people, systems, and outcomes.

Through the power of connection, I’ve been able to weave my passions into meaningful work reflected in a holistic approach to leadership and focusing on people over programming.

2. Where do you work and what is your role? When/how did you get started there? 

Throughout my career, I’ve danced between the worlds of hospitality and healthcare (sales, ops, service, etc.), finding joy and purpose in both. My formal training in Therapeutic Recreation allowed me to explore new perspectives on wellness and its profound impact on the well-being of healthcare workers and patients alike.

In 2017, I stepped into leadership at Metro Community Health Centers (MCHC), where I served as Manager of Strategic Planning and Development and Community Relations Lead. 

In 2021, my path led me to Mount Sinai Solutions (formerly Commercialization), where I embraced the opportunity to blend my passions for hospitality and healthcare. I managed a concierge-style medical practice and brought a customer service-driven approach to healthcare operations. Currently, I serve as the Director at Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital, where I continue to bridge these two worlds by infusing hospitality principles into healthcare.

3. List some factors that contribute to your success.

I define success as freedom, and although I’m still on my journey to achieving that, several factors have contributed along the way:

• Connection: Relationships are at the core of everything I do.
• Creativity: I approach challenges with innovation, blending the arts of hospitality and healthcare.
• Wellness: Staying rooted in the mind-body-spirit connection helps me stay centered

4. Give advice to those starting their careers in Business Development

Meet people. Make relationships. Connection is the foundation of any career, so take the time to network and learn at every opportunity. 

5. What is your passion?

While I have several, they all stem from one. People are my passion —plain and simple

6. Please tell us about the range and type of projects you are involved in.

My expertise lies in Connectivity through Operations, where I bring together strategy, innovation, and human-centered care to create lasting impact. From healthcare operations to business development, I’m constantly involved in projects that build bridges between people, ideas, and systems, all with the goal of uplifting the mind, body, and spirit to achieve the bottom line (whatever that maybe).