LEADING BY EXAMPLE:
Marcus Wilson, Gilead Sciences

Please share a brief description of your current role:

I currently serve as the Senior Director of Community Engagement and Patient Advocacy, U.S. Virology, at Gilead Sciences. I’ve spent more than two decades involved in efforts to end the HIV epidemic and advance health equity globally. I’ve also worked with national advocacy organizations to protect patient and physician choice, promoting equity in healthcare, and expanding access to life-saving therapies. I currently serve on the boards of AIDS United, ONYX National and Deep South, and LLC. Outside of my professional commitments, I enjoy international travel, quality time with family and friends, and volunteering in my community. While a native of Detroit, MI, I currently reside in Orlando, FL, with my partner, Steven.

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Why do you believe it's important for businesses to play a role in addressing HIV? 

Businesses play a crucial role in addressing HIV for several reasons.

Firstly, it aligns with the broader goal of being impactful corporate citizens. Just as companies strive to excel in their industries, they also have a responsibility to contribute positively to society.

Addressing HIV is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic move for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility and ethical practices.

Moreover, public-private partnerships are essential for tackling HIV effectively. By combining resources, expertise, and networks from both sectors, businesses can significantly enhance prevention, treatment, and care initiatives. These partnerships enable the pooling of resources to scale up interventions, develop innovative solutions, and reach underserved communities.

Additionally, businesses’ involvement in addressing HIV can lead to tangible benefits such as improved access to testing and treatment, reduced stigma, and the promotion of workplace wellness programs, ultimately creating healthier and more productive workforces. This not only benefits employees but also contributes to the overall well-being of communities and economies.

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How do you hope to see U.S. Business Action to End HIV and coalition members contributing toward ending HIV in the U.S.?

The coalition members have a unique opportunity of addressing HIV in different ways. 

For instance, fostering healthy workforces. U.S. businesses can contribute to ending HIV by implementing comprehensive workplace wellness programs that include HIV education, prevention, testing, and support services for employees. 

Business can also support health equity by prioritizing initiatives that address disparities in HIV prevention and care and ensuring equitable access to resources and services for all individuals, regardless of socioeconomic status or background.

U.S. businesses can also play a vital role in improving the communities where they operate by supporting local HIV prevention, treatment, and support initiatives, investing in healthcare infrastructure, and collaborating with community organizations. 

And last but not least, businesses should allocate resources and funding towards HIV initiatives as part of their overall commitment to employee wellness, recognizing the importance of addressing HIV as a public health priority.

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What personally motivated you to become involved in working in HIV? 

My personal involvement in working in HIV is deeply rooted in various motivating factors.

Firstly, witnessing the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS on friends and loved ones has been a significant driving force. The loss I experienced fueled a strong desire to take action and contribute to ending the epidemic, ensuring that others do not have to endure similar tragedies.

Additionally, the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by HIV has been a guiding principle in my career choice. Whether through advocacy, awareness campaigns, or direct support services, working in HIV allows me to actively participate in efforts to improve prevention, treatment, and support for individuals and communities affected by the virus. 

Furthermore, my personal experience as someone living with HIV has amplified my determination to work towards ending the epidemic, not only for my own well-being but also for others facing similar challenges. This combination of personal loss, the desire to make a difference, and firsthand experience drives my dedication to this important cause.

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What advice would you give to other corporate leaders considering taking action on HIV? 

For corporate leaders considering taking action on HIV, I would offer several pieces of advice. 

Firstly, it’s crucial to emphasize corporate responsibility and highlight how addressing HIV aligns with broader social responsibility goals. By showcasing the positive impact on both society and the business itself, leaders can garner support and momentum for HIV initiatives within their organizations.

Secondly, I would strongly encourage engaging in partnerships with public health organizations, NGOs, and other businesses. These collaborations allow for the pooling of resources and expertise to enhance HIV prevention, treatment, and support efforts.

Additionally, prioritizing workplace wellness by implementing comprehensive programs that include HIV education, prevention, testing, and support services for employees is essential. This not only promotes a healthy workforce but also contributes to the broader goal of ending the HIV epidemic.

Leaders should also address stigma surrounding HIV by fostering a supportive and inclusive environment within their organizations, emphasizing the importance of combating discrimination and creating spaces where individuals feel safe and supported.

Finally, leading by example is key—by actively supporting HIV initiatives, promoting awareness, and integrating HIV-related goals into the company’s overall strategy and culture, corporate leaders can inspire meaningful change and drive progress towards ending HIV.

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What are the key values that drive your company's commitment to addressing HIV?

Gilead Sciences’ commitment to addressing HIV is firmly grounded in several core values that guide its actions and decisions. 

The company prioritizes the well-being and needs of patients living with HIV, demonstrating a profound commitment to patient care by facilitating access to innovative treatments and comprehensive support services. This patient-centric approach underscores Gilead’s dedication to improving the quality of life for individuals affected by HIV, ensuring they receive the care and support necessary to thrive.

Gilead is driven by a pursuit of scientific excellence, investing in advanced research and development to continually enhance HIV treatment and care. Through a relentless pursuit of breakthroughs in therapy and prevention, Gilead aims to push the boundaries of scientific innovation in the fight against HIV/AIDS, striving to improve outcomes and transform the landscape of HIV treatment.

Additionally, the company’s commitment to access and affordability is evident through its efforts to expand access to HIV medications globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, through various pricing strategies, licensing agreements, and donation programs. This commitment reflects Gilead’s belief in the importance of ensuring equitable access to life-saving HIV treatments for all individuals, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographical location.

Gilead actively engages in advocacy efforts to reduce stigma associated with HIV/AIDS and promote education and awareness, fostering a supportive environment for those affected by the virus. By challenging misconceptions and advocating for greater understanding, Gilead contributes to creating a more inclusive society where individuals living with HIV can thrive without fear of discrimination or prejudice.

The company also demonstrates its commitment to addressing HIV through philanthropic initiatives, including grants, donations, and partnerships with organizations working on HIV prevention, treatment, and support services. These efforts aim to extend the reach of HIV programs, improve healthcare infrastructure, and empower communities affected by the virus.

Additionally, Gilead recognizes the importance of collaboration and partnerships in addressing the complexities of HIV/AIDS comprehensively. By working closely with healthcare providers, advocacy groups, governments, and other stakeholders, Gilead leverages collective expertise and resources to develop holistic solutions and drive meaningful progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS.