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Austin Ward
Head of Growth @ Fathom | Stanford MBA + Harvard MPA
Professional Background
Austin Ward is a distinguished healthcare and technology leader with extensive experience spanning growth, marketing, operations, strategy, and business development. Currently serving as the leader of the growth function at Fathom, a Series B health tech company, Austin plays a critical role in building out the growth team and processes that effectively link technology with healthcare solutions to promote sustainable health systems. Reporting directly to the CEO, his responsibilities include overseeing all top-of-funnel operations to ensure the organization's vision aligns with operational execution and market demands.
Austin's impressive career has been marked by his commitment to merging people and technology to create impactful health systems. He has cultivated a robust knowledge base through pivotal roles, including his time at BCG, where he identified innovative opportunities in artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented/virtual reality (AR/VR) for medical technology companies. His work as a consultant at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation focused on driving digital health interventions and health system reforms that have had significant impacts globally.
Moreover, Austin has demonstrated his passion for innovation and entrepreneurship by investing in and supporting breakthrough companies in life sciences at Playground Global. He has also worked on advanced technologies at Fathom to alleviate administrative costs and complexities in healthcare through the application of deep learning.
Education and Achievements
Austin's educational journey is as impressive as his professional trajectory. He earned his MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, where he graduated at the top of his class as a Siebel Scholar, recognizing him among the top 5% of his cohort, and as an Arjay Miller Scholar, distinguishing him in the top 10%. His Master of Public Administration was obtained from the prestigious Harvard Kennedy School of Government, further enhancing his expertise in public affairs and policy.
Additionally, Austin completed his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Law, Letters, & Society and Economics at the University of Chicago, where he was honored as a Student Marshal for ranking among the top 50 students at the institution. This solid academic foundation has served as a significant pillar in his career development, equipping him with the analytical and strategic skills necessary for interpreting complex healthcare challenges and proposing innovative solutions.
Skills and Expertise
Austin Ward exemplifies a blend of strategic thinking and operational expertise, amplified by his experience across various high-impact roles. As the former Director of Growth and Strategy at Fathom, he developed a keen insight into market dynamics in the health tech sector. His role impacted key growth initiatives, streamlining processes, and fostering collaborative environments to stimulate innovation.
Earlier in his career, Austin held several positions within The Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he cultivated extensive consulting expertise, especially in healthcare investment strategies. His positions included Consultant, Associate, and eventually a BCG secondee at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. His exposure to global health challenges and collaborative projects at Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has honed his ability to lead multifaceted initiatives involving diverse stakeholders.
Austin has also contributed to the startup ecosystem as a former Venture Investor at Playground Global, supporting companies pushing the boundaries of technology in healthcare and life sciences. His pioneering work as Healthcare Investment Director at the Stanford GSB Impact Fund illustrates his dedication to leveraging innovative investments for societal benefit.
Contributions to the Community and Interests
Outside of his professional commitments, Austin Ward is motivated by a profound curiosity about the world around him. He enjoys engaging with classic literature, practicing meditation, and documenting his thoughts through journaling—an outlet for processing insights from his experiences. In his quest for lifelong learning, he has adeptly navigated language acquisition using Duolingo, nearing a remarkable 900-day streak, showcasing his commitment to personal growth and exploration.
His leadership extends beyond personal interests and professional roles; Austin previously led the MODA organization at the University of Chicago, demonstrating his ability to inspire and collaborate with peers while making a tangible impact in his community.
Conclusion
Austin Ward is a visionary leader in healthcare and technology, bridging the gap between groundbreaking advancements and practical applications for improving health systems. With a rich educational background paired with a wealth of professional experience in top organizations, Austin is undoubtedly positioned to drive significant contributions to the health tech industry. His passion for innovation and dedication to sustainability in healthcare continue to shape his career trajectory, making him a pivotal figure to watch in the expansive realm of health technology and business development.
