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San Francisco CEO Says Students Excel By Working In A Career They Care About

In a business environment that is constantly evolving, big data is the changing the way companies operate in San Francisco. What the Harvard Magazine describes as a "Big Deal", big data can be used from a spectrum of industries, from analyzing customer preferences to helping the health care sector operate more efficiently. One fast growing company headquartered in San Francisco, Zephyr Health has created a unique and sophisticated data management system specifically designed for pharmaceutical, medical device and biotech companies. William King is the founder and CEO of Zephyr Health and offered to talk a little about himself, his innovative company and career advice to business majors.

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(Photo Courtesy of William King)

What is your background and education?

"Prior to starting my career, I graduated from the University of Denver with a B.S. in Business Administration focused in International Business. Throughout my career, I've focused on developing technology solutions for life sciences, specifically at Johnson & Johnson, and Zephyr Health, where we have created numerous real-world Big Data Intelligence solutions."

How has your education helped you in your current position?

"Studying business administration prepared me for my variety of sales and marketing leadership positions within the life sciences industry. I've been able to combine my passion for healthy living, with the business tools I learned in school, to get where I am today. At Zephyr Health, our mission is to visualize a healthier world, and help life sciences companies bring therapies to patients that need them most."

What career advice can you share with business majors?

"Find what you are passionate about and make it central to your career. Whether it's culinary or coding, you'll enjoy and excel in your career much more if you're working towards something you care about. In my current role, I'm able to help life sciences companies bring the right therapies to the people who need them the most, helping people all over the world live healthier lives."

"Build off of past experiences to uncover your passion and areas where you can lend the most value. While working at Johnson & Johnson, I experienced first-hand the opportunities for life sciences - and the broader health care industry - to accelerate solutions to improve health outcomes worldwide by leveraging software and technology."

Randy Yagi is a freelance writer covering all things San Francisco. In 2012, he was awarded a Media Fellowship from Stanford University. His work can be found on Examiner.com Examiner.com.

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