Janet Jule, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, is a dynamic and compassionate nursing leader with over 30 years of experience in healthcare, including two decades in healthcare operations and executive leadership. Known for her collaborative approach and strategic vision, Janet has built a reputation for elevating patient care, fostering staff well-being, and creating systems that truly serve both the community and healthcare teams. Currently, she serves as a senior leader overseeing perioperative clinical services in Northern California, where she is driving improvements in patient care, workforce development, and the implementation of quality, safety, and efficiency initiatives.
Janet’s transition from bedside nursing to senior leadership was driven by a desire to have a more significant impact on patient care and the healthcare system. Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “My transition from bedside nursing to senior leadership was driven by a desire to impact patient care on a broader scale. As a bedside nurse, I was honored to care for individuals and families during some of their most vulnerable moments. Over time, I began to see opportunities to improve systems, workflows, and team dynamics that directly affected patient outcomes and staff well-being. I realized that through leadership, I could help create a safer, more efficient, and more supportive environment—not just for patients, but also for the entire team.”
Her Filipino heritage has greatly influenced her approach to leadership, shaping her values of respect, inclusivity, and collaboration. “Being raised in a Filipino culture influenced my leadership style, giving much emphasis to respect, inquisitiveness, and a collaborative approach. I seek input from those on the front lines and consider the impact of decisions not just on operations, but on morale, culture, and patient care,” Janet explained. She strives to lead in a way that honors both her cultural roots and the diverse perspectives of the people she works with, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.
In her current role at Kaiser Permanente, Janet’s strategic priorities focus on elevating the patient and member care experience, improving access to care, and reducing wait times for surgery. She is dedicated to fostering team engagement and professional development, prioritizing staff well-being and retention through mentorship, clear communication, and leadership development. “I promote equity and diversity in the workplace,” she added, emphasizing the importance of building a supportive and inclusive environment for both patients and staff. Additionally, she is committed to the provision of quality, evidence-based care and ensuring that every patient receives the highest standard of care possible.
Leading perioperative clinical operations comes with its own set of challenges. Janet’s role requires a balance between maintaining safe, quality care while remaining efficient in a fast-paced, high-energy environment. “One of the biggest challenges in the perioperative space is the ability to keep a balance in maintaining safe and quality care while remaining efficient and keeping up with the demands of a fast-paced and high-energy environment. A seamless day of surgery requires tight planning and coordination among all the team players,” she said. Another challenge is ensuring that the right mix of staff is available in the operating rooms, retaining them, and preventing burnout. To navigate these challenges, Janet remains grounded in her core values of respect, collaboration, resiliency, and commitment to excellence. Her focus on creating a supportive, efficient environment for both patients and staff helps drive success in the face of adversity.
As a passionate advocate for Filipino nurses, Janet emphasized the importance of empowering Filipino nurses to rise into leadership and executive roles in large health systems. “Filipino nurses comprise a large percentage of the nursing workforce, and it is imperative that succession planning and mentorship be weaved into every frontline nurse’s development plan,” she stated. She believes that health systems must prioritize inclusivity and diversity in leadership development programs, ensuring that Filipino nurses are given the tools, recognition, and support needed to thrive in both clinical and leadership positions.
Janet’s message to Filipino nurses aspiring to achieve excellence and leadership is both empowering and inspiring. “To my fellow Filipino nurses, whatever nursing specialty you practice and whichever department or institution you work for, know that your presence, your work, and your voices matter. As Filipinos, we carry a deep tradition of compassion, resilience, and excellence. We care, we serve, and we lead with dignity and with our hearts,” she said. Janet encourages Filipino nurses to never underestimate their potential and to embrace opportunities for growth. “Seek new knowledge and welcome coaching and mentorship to better your practice. Your role is beyond the bedside, be proud of what you bring to the table. You make a difference!”
Her leadership and vision for the future are a testament to the power of mentorship, inclusion, and cultural pride in healthcare. Janet Jule’s dedication to advancing patient care, supporting her staff, and empowering the next generation of Filipino nurses has made her an influential leader in nursing. Through her work, she is building a legacy that not only impacts patients but also helps shape the future of nursing leadership for years to come.
