2 Minutes With … Devika Mathrani, CMO at NewYork-Presbyterian

At NewYork-Presbyterian, Devika Mathrani is responsible for marketing, public and media relations, partnerships, content, social and crisis management. She leads across the enterprise to advance NYP’s digital strategy and patient communications to elevate and differentiate the customer experience.

Earlier, Devika served as CMO of consumer banking at Wells Fargo N.A. She also held senior posts at Citi and American Express, among others.

We spent two minutes with Devika to learn more about her background, her creative inspirations and recent work she’s admired.

Devika, tell us …

Where you grew up, and where you live now. 

I was born at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, where I am now the chief marketing and communications officer, so life has come full circle. I spent my childhood in Manhattan—and as an expatriate in Rio De Janeiro for two years, and in Seoul for four-and-a-half years, as my father was a banker. I came back to New York for middle school and the city has been home ever since.

How you first got interested in health. 

I was in consumer banking for 22 years at American Express, Citi and Wells Fargo, and was looking for a change to challenge myself and to keep learning. Healthcare, like many other industries, is going through rapid transformation because of technology and research, but also because consumer engagement has evolved. That accelerated during Covid. The opportunity to shape the change and redefine the category attracted me to the space. 

One of your favorite projects you’ve ever worked on.

Partnering with Havas New York to reimagine NYP’s brand platform with a customer-first message, “Stay Amazing.” It’s designed to deliver on this promise: As you grow, a whole world of wellness grows around you. The “Stay Amazing” platform breaks through by shifting away from the institution as hero—common in the industry—to making the patient the hero. Through emotive storytelling and highlighting clinical expertise and advancement, we are inspiring and connecting with the diverse communities we serve.

A recent project you’re proud of.

The “Stay Amazing” campaign includes incredible patient stories. Two of my favorites are:

Ramit Malhotra, a 28-year-old who, two months away from his wedding, suffered a stroke while driving. Our doctors made quick and smart decisions that saved his life, allowing him to walk down the aisle.

Peter Killinger, a volunteer firefighter from New Jersey who came to NYP when he needed complex care and eventually a heart transplant. Our care enabled Peter to get back to fighting fires and saving lives.

One thing about how health is evolving that you’re excited about.

Consumers and the industry are increasingly focused on preventative care, so we can work together to get ahead of a health issue before it gets beyond our reach. That’s an example of the power of A.I. in healthcare—our predictive capabilities allow us to help patients make earlier and informed decisions for their mind, body and soul. This translates into stronger communities and culture.

Someone else’s work, in health or beyond, that you admired lately.

Nike is a performance brand with energy and discipline. The design is always on brand and the messaging is simple, even when they are being provocative and/or taking a stand on people, sport, culture or community. They aren’t afraid to have a point of view. I respect that.

A book, movie, TV show, or podcast you recently found inspiring.

Mandela’s Way, Fifteen Lessons on Life, Love and Courage by Richard Stengel. It’s inspiring, thought-provoking and relevant.

A visual artist or band/musician you admire.

U2.  A band that stands the test of time because their music has range, energy and heart.  

Your favorite fictional character.

Olivia Pope—she’s a woman on a mission with style, grace, confidence and courage.

Someone worth following on social media.

@natgeotravel lets you stare at beauty and inspire your next trip.

Your main strength as a marketer/creative.

I’m decisive and comfortable taking informed risk. It’s a combination that is critically important to create change and build culture.

Your biggest weakness.

I operate at a rigorous pace since patience is not my best quality, and I have low tolerance for mediocrity. That can be exhausting for some.

One thing that always makes you happy.

Family time—there’s nothing better. 

One thing that always makes you sad.

Poverty and inequity. With so much wealth and opportunity in the world, the discrepancy between how people are educated and live should not be so wide.

Something people would find surprising about you.

I’m an extreme extrovert to many, but I crave downtime. In many ways, my daily morning run is that time for me.

What you’d be doing if you weren’t in health.

Figuring out how to make travel or travel planning my job.