We recently connected with Dr. Omonye Phillips and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Omonye, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
To be effective and successful, I truly believe in preparation. The saying that luck is when preparation meets opportunity is one that always resonates with me. Many times, I am in rooms where no one looks like me. However, because I am a firm believer that whatever is worth doing is worth doing well, I tend to always prepare well, researching, asking questions and doing these things allows me to show up confidently with competence. My contributions are always of value and I feel good knowing that I am making an impact and adding value.
Additionally, I work on my cultural and emotional intelligence through reading, traveling and asking questions. This helps me to understand and respect different perspectives. It also empowers me to be relatable in rooms where no one else looks like me.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Dr. Omonye Phillips is a Divisional Vice President (DVP) at Rite Aid Corporation, overseeing the pharmacy operations of over 160 stores and 3500 associates from Southern to Central California.
Managing a budget of nearly $2B, Omo drives the strategy and execution of immunization and
vaccination administration, Medication Therapy Management, and pharmacy sales with a focus on
building relationships between pharmacists and the community.
Dr. Phillips exudes excellence in the way she manages people, innovates solutions, and drives business
results. Her servant leadership style and strategic decision-making has directly impacted the success of
her division. Last fiscal year, her division also delivered the highest EBITDA results exceeding 200% over plan.
Dr. Phillips’ business acumen comes not only from her tenure in the industry, but also management of
businesses outside of her primary role with Rite Aid, My Dream BIG Club and Omosilk. My Dream BIG
Club is a support network for young professionals looking to develop and stretch their skillsets and
Omosilk is a healthy hair and skin brand that uses 100% hypoallergenic mulberry silk fabric to protect
hair strands and soothe skin issues like eczema – having personally not had a viable option on the
market for her three children who suffered from eczema and allergies.
Dr. Phillips also plays an active role in developing youth through various initiatives. She is a graduate of the
University of Michigan and currently sits on the Alumni Board of Governors at the University of Michigan
College of Pharmacy.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Being a lifelong learner has made a huge impact in my journey. I am constantly reading to learn about new things, ideas and innovations. My preference for leadership and self-development books but I also enjoy a Sydney Sheldon book. I thoroughly enjoy learning from those that have gone before me which makes biographies and autobiographies some of my favorites. Through reading, I am empowered with information and find myself knowledgeable in many different aspects of life. I also know how to be resourceful even when I don’t know or have the answers.
Which leads me to my next quality that is, humility. I am humble to admit when I am wrong or when I don’t know something. I tend to comfortably and openly ask questions regardless of how I am perceived.
Another key quality is that I am a problem solver. The businesses that I have all stemmed from a place of need. Omosilk, which is one of my business endeavors was born due to my unlucky search for mulberry silk accessories for my kids. Once I learned about the benefits of Mulberry Silk including being packed with micronutrients and it’s hypoallergenic quality, I searched the market but couldn’t find any viable options and so decided to solve my own problem. Having three children that all suffered from hair loss and eczema, and seeing the benefit of using these silk accessories for them, I wanted to make a widespread solution available to other families that experienced similar issues.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
I am grateful to God and my faith continues to strengthen my ability to overcome adversity and have a positive outlook of life. I’d also like to recognize my amazing husband as he has been the most pivotal person to my success. He believes in me, pushes me and supports me and the words are not enough. I am so grateful for his partnership in raising our kids and doing life together.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.omosilk.com
- Instagram: @wearomosilk, @omonista
