Dr. Ewa J. Kleczyk is a recognized senior leader in healthcare analytics and operational excellence. She holds a Ph.D. from Virginia Tech and specializes in real-world evidence and advancing drug development and patient care. Honored with multiple industry awards, including the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award (2023) and Top 50 Women in Healthcare Technology Leaders (2024), she actively publishes, speaks at industry and leadership conferences, and joins community podcasts to share her insights on relevant topics. A strong advocate for women in advancement, she co-founded the Kleczyk-Strout Foundation and serves on multiple educational and healthcare advisory boards. True to continued learning she is enrolled in Columbia University’s Executive Business Education.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Ewa shared insights on how analytics will play a transformative role in shaping the future of healthcare, her significant career milestone, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
What inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare analytics, and what continues to drive your passion for this field?
My passion for analytics and healthcare stems from a deep desire to make a tangible impact on patient outcomes and the efficiency of healthcare systems. Early in my career, I was drawn to the power of data in transforming decision-making, improving drug development, and driving better patient care. Seeing how analytics can enhance healthcare accessibility and quality keeps me motivated. Every breakthrough, every insight that leads to a better treatment pathway or a more informed decision, reinforces my commitment to this field.
What aspects of your current role do you find most fulfilling?
What I love most about my current role is the ability to influence meaningful change through data-driven strategies. Working at the intersection of analytics and healthcare allows me to collaborate with talented professionals who share a vision for innovation. Whether it’s improving data quality, optimizing healthcare solutions, or mentoring future leaders, I find great fulfillment in shaping a more effective and equitable healthcare landscape.
How do you see analytics shaping the future of healthcare, and how are you preparing for these changes?
Analytics will play a transformative role in the future of healthcare, driving advancements in personalized medicine, predictive modeling, and operational efficiency. As we shift toward more data-driven decision-making, real-world evidence and artificial intelligence will become even more critical in shaping treatments and improving patient outcomes. To stay ahead, I focus on continuous learning, understanding the current and future landscape of patient care and access, and fostering collaborations that bridge the gap between data science and clinical applications.
Why do you believe mentoring women in the pharmaceutical industry is so important, and how do you personally contribute to this effort?
Mentoring future women leaders in the pharmaceutical industry is incredibly important to me because representation matters. Women bring unique perspectives and strengths to leadership roles, and I believe it’s essential to provide guidance, opportunities, and support to help them thrive. I take a proactive approach by mentoring young professionals, speaking at women’s leadership conferences, and creating networks that empower women to advance in their careers confidently.
How do you stay informed about the latest developments in analytics and healthcare?
Staying current with the latest trends in analytics and healthcare requires a commitment to lifelong learning. I actively engage with industry conferences, academic journals, professional networks, and thought leadership forums. Additionally, collaborating with experts from diverse backgrounds and being part of advisory boards helps me stay informed about emerging innovations and best practices.
Who has been the most influential mentor in your career, and how have they shaped your professional journey?
I’ve been fortunate to have strong mentors throughout my career, but one of the most significant influences has been my graduate school advisor. They challenged me to think critically, push boundaries, and never settle for the status quo. Their guidance shaped my problem-solving approach and instilled a mindset of continuous improvement, which has been invaluable in my career.
Can you share a defining moment in your career that you are most proud of?
One of my most defining career moments was receiving the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023. This recognition was not just a personal milestone but a testament to the years of hard work, dedication, and passion I have invested in healthcare analytics. It reinforced my belief in the importance of innovation, leadership, and mentorship, encouraging me to continue pushing the boundaries in my field.
With such a demanding career, how do you ensure you maintain a sense of balance and well-being?
Prioritizing well-being and self-care is essential in managing a demanding career. I make a conscious effort to maintain balance by setting boundaries, making time for exercise, and surrounding myself with supportive colleagues and family. Finding moments for reflection and personal growth allows me to stay energized and maintain my passion for my work.
What are your long-term career aspirations, and how do you envision your leadership evolving in the coming years?
Over the next five years, I aspire to continue evolving as a leader in healthcare analytics, driving innovation, and fostering talent development. I see myself taking on more strategic leadership roles, expanding my influence in healthcare policy and technology, and strengthening mentorship programs for the next generation of data professionals.
What advice would you give to women and underrepresented groups looking to establish a career in healthcare analytics?
My advice to women and underrepresented groups looking to break into analytics and healthcare is to believe in their abilities and seek out mentorship and professional networks that support their growth. Stay curious, be proactive in learning, and never hesitate to take on new challenges. Your unique perspective is valuable, and with determination and resilience, you can carve out a successful and impactful career in this industry.