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Darrell M. Jones II: Leading Successful Strategies and Championing Diversity

Elevance Health Impact January 12, 2024

A former college football player and coach, Darrell M. Jones II knows the x’s and o’s of leadership, teamwork, health, and fitness. With a championship ring to show for it, his gameplan was highly successful on the field — and now he creates successful strategies in his professional role at Elevance Health.

As a project manager, Jones leads product development, sales, and marketing for the Medicare product launch program, including overseeing materials about health plans and ensuring they are accurate and informative. His meticulous approach to his work is a testament to Elevance Health's commitment to providing excellent service for consumers, a goal Jones aims to uphold each day.

Jones plays another key role within Elevance Health by supporting diversity and community. As talent lead for the African American Professional Exchange (APEX) Business Resource Group (BRG), he cultivates an inclusive and safe environment for associates and encourages them to engage in company activities and to use company resources available to them.

Helping older adults in Medicare plans receive the vital information they need to manage and improve their health is Jones’ primary focus at work. He still keeps his eye on the ball when it comes to his own health and well-being: in his spare time, he stays active playing sports and enjoying a variety of outdoor activities.

 

Which of our company values (community, diversity, integrity, agility, leadership) is especially meaningful to you and why?

All our values align directly with how I try to live my life, but the one that stands out the most is integrity. Your character is defined by what you do when no one is watching you, and I believe that I am with an organization that is always doing the right thing, even when the lights are off. Another value that aligns with being a project manager is agility. We must be ready to adapt based on business changes that require us to pivot, yet always keep a positive mindset and work with integrity.

What activities do you enjoy?

I played football for Utica College in Utica, New York, and was the assistant wide receivers coach there during graduate school. We won the 2018 Scotty White Law Bowl, and I was fortunate enough to get a ring. The score of the game was 44-42, and it was our first ever post-season victory! Besides playing sports, I enjoy playing card games, watching movies, eating good food, dancing, and listening to music. I’m a little musically inclined — I play the piano and the saxophone, and I like to sing.

What work accomplishments are you most proud of?

Earning my Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification last year was a big accomplishment. This allowed me to get an understanding of the core fundamentals of project management as guided by the Project Management Institute, which was immediately translatable to my work this year with the Medicare product launch program.

I’m also honored to be part of our Enterprise Change Management Community of Practice — an initiative to develop enterprise standards for change management.

My lead role with the APEX BRG is also a great achievement. Throughout my years in sports, and most of my work roles, I’ve been in a position that allowed me to lead. I am ecstatic for another opportunity to be a servant leader.

 

How do you strive for and maintain good health?

Exercise is the key! I spend tons of time in the gym, outdoors playing sports, and walking my dog. I also eat healthy… for the most part. Exercising the mind is vital to staying sharp. I do the daily wordle, and I read several books throughout the year. I’m currently reading “Think and Grow Rich.”

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