Q and A with New DKMS US CEO, John Spinnato

In September, DKMS US welcomed new CEO John Spinnato. He brings energy, experience, and incredible enthusiasm for his new role. Let’s get to know him!

Q. Welcome to the DKMS family, John! Tell us a little about yourself. 

I’m thrilled to be at DKMS! I’ve been around the world in my career, working in the nonprofit healthcare space and I truly feel like joining DKMS is the perfect integration of my experience as a lawyer, a nonprofit leader, and my commitment to helping as many patients as we possibly can. 

I live in New York with my wife Rosa and we have three wonderful children. 

Q. What is your background? 

Just prior to joining DKMS, I was practicing law in the healthcare industry in NYC. I was previously with Sanofi for over 28 years in different roles. I served as President of the Sanofi Foundation for North America, as well as VP of Corporate Social Responsibility for Sanofi NA. Prior to that, I was the Vice President and General Counsel of Sanofi NA. Before joining Sanofi,  I worked in Paris as American counsel to Total, SA, (formerly Elf Aquitaine) a French company, Pan Am World Airways Services subsidiary, as well as the State of Iowa Ombudsman’s office.

I am a graduate of the Georgetown University Law Center where I received my LLM in International Law and the University of Dayton where I received my JD and BA degrees. I also served on the boards of several other organizations committed to health, social justice, education and the arts and I am currently on the Board of the NAACP Foundation and Theatre Breaking Through Barriers. I also serve on the board of Lundbeck LLC. 

Q. What has been your first impression of DKMS? 

Very warm and inviting culture with a team of very committed and extremely dedicated professionals who are truly mission driven. My first weeks here have been incredibly positive.

Q. What are your plans now that you are in the driver’s seat?

Initially, I would like to ensure that we are continuing to build a collaborative and motivated team in the US. Additionally, I would like to drive the image and reputation of DKMS in the US in order to increase donors and serve more patients needing stem cell transplants, particularly in underserved communities.

Q. What opportunities do you see for growth of DKMS in the US?

Increase donor recruitment in underserved and minority communities as this patient population is quickly becoming the majority of our US population, as well as find additional sources of funding from Corporations and Foundations.