Chip Souba
About this Executive:
Name:
Dr. "Chip" Souba
Company:
The Ohio State University
Interview Topics:
Healthcare
Region:
Region 1 - Central Ohio
The OSU Medical Center, the only academic medical center in central Ohio, is on the forefront in the future of medicine through its approach of personalized care. The center comprises six signature programs, which include cancer, critical care, heart, imaging, neurosciences and transplantation. The center also educates a large percentage of the region's physicians and provides advanced training and continuing education for clinicians.
Specializing in surgical oncology, Dr. Wiley W. "Chip" Souba is a thought leader on the subjects of leadership in academic medical centers, core values and mentoring. He is regularly ranked as one of "The Best Doctors in America" by his peers, has published 300 articles in peer-reviewed journals, is the co-author of Surgical Research and the editor of American College of Surgeons Surgery. Prior to joining OSU in August 2006, Dr. Souba served as chair of the Department of Surgery at the Penn State University College of Medicine, surgeon-in-chief at Penn State's Hershey Medical Center and director of the Penn State Hershey Center for Leadership Development.
I wanted to learn more about why the OSU Medical Center has thrived and become an authority among academic medical centers in the Midwest. What I learned was that Ohio provides a positive work:life balance that reduces job-site stress, which makes the OSU Medical Center a desired place to work and thrive.
Q: What do you think are the key advantages that Ohio uniquely offers that have contributed to the success of the OSU Medical Center?
A: I would point immediately to the exceptional workforce, the economy, and the ability to forge relationships and collaborations. Ohio, in particular, central Ohio, has a workforce that is exceptional. It's not only the intellectual capacity but it's the Midwest values that I believe speak to our strengths. Every state is challenged economically these days, but I believe the government and business leaders are committed to keeping our economy strong. This is important as the OSU Medical Center and other businesses make major plans for growth well into the next decade. In terms of collaborations, I am constantly amazed by how commerce, government and neighborhoods unite to improve their communities and the state. There is a positive energy and a level of excitement that is conducive to good business and partnerships.
Q: Health care professionals don't always keep regular 9 to 5 hours. With that being said, what benefits do you see the OSU Medical Center getting from having employees who really achieve a positive work:life balance?
A: A positive work:life balance reduces job stress and results in a more motivated workforce. Jobs in the health care field are intense, so in order to keep the OSU Medical Center a workplace of choice, we need to ensure that our employees view their jobs as a focus, not the focus in their lives. Ohio offers options and opportunities that make striking this balance very manageable.
Q: In you opinion, what is Ohio's one true gem that you share with others?
A: Although I was not a complete stranger to Ohio - I earned my undergraduate degree at Muskingum College - my eyes opened when I came to OSU in 2006 and found that Ohio was a very prominent player when it comes to business, education and the arts. As a home to many Fortune 500 businesses, academic institutions, as well as great art, athletic and entertainment venues, I don't think there are many states that can compare as favorably. I always "sell" Columbus and Ohio to recruits. It's really not difficult.
Q: As a health care industry leader, what is the OSU Medical Center's judgment of Ohio's workforce?
A: Most of our staff at the OSU Medical Center lives in the central Ohio area and we are very fortunate to have such an abundant and talented pool of people. Ohio places a high value on education and that is evident in the people that we hire who make us one of the top academic medical centers in the country. We also are aided by a strong work ethic throughout the community and a successful transportation system, which is essential for many employees.
Q: "The Ohio Promise" is that you can achieve professional success within the context of a fulfilling life. Do you agree and have you witnessed this promise in your experience?
A: I certainly agree that Ohio lends itself to not only a quality work/life balance, but also to a rewarding life beyond the 8- to 10-hour day. A stable workforce, a steady demand for the products and services we provide, and a great potential for growth and prosperity make this an ideal location for young professionals families. I have lived and worked all over this country and this is the place I call home.