Michelle Arulfo, FACHE, PMP, Corporate Strategy Director, Corporate Development, Elevance Health
What’s your current role?
I’ve been with Elevance Health since 2021, where I work in Corporate Development. I love that every day is different. My role gives me the opportunity to work across all areas of the business, helping evaluate new ideas, partnerships and investments that can improve healthcare and support future growth. It’s the perfect blend of strategy, innovation and problem-solving, which keeps the work exciting and rewarding.
Why did you join the Women’s Health Leadership TRUST?
I originally joined the TRUST for its Mentorship Program in 2017. At the time, I had reached a point in my career where I knew I wanted to continue growing, but I wasn’t quite sure what that next step looked like or where to start. I was fortunate to be matched with an incredible mentor, Jill Johnson, and we’ve stayed connected ever since.
I am currently a second-time mentor. Mentoring through the TRUST has been especially meaningful because it gives me the opportunity to support other women as they build confidence, navigate career decisions, expand their professional networks and pursue leadership roles in health care.
What has been your favorite part of being a member of the TRUST?
The connections I’ve made through TRUST have led to friendships, mentorship, professional growth and plenty of fun along the way. In fact, I tell everyone about my “TRUST Top 5” because they’re absolute must-dos:
- Participate in the Mentorship Program.
- Stay overnight at the Wellness Retreat.
- Soak up the energy at the Holiday Networking Event.
- Volunteer at The Forum and meet more people.
- Relax and Connect on the Summer Boat Cruise.
What is the best career advice you’ve received?
One of the best pieces of career advice I have received is to raise my hand for the hard, ambiguous work where the path is not yet defined. Some of the most meaningful opportunities in my career came from stepping into complex problems, building structure where none existed and helping teams move from uncertainty to execution. Say ‘Yes’ when others shy away, do the work others don’t see, and see the work from others’ perspectives.
Can you share a pivotal moment in your career that significantly influenced your leadership style or professional path?
A pivotal moment in my career was helping build the innovation function at Allina Health in collaboration with the CFO. That work required developing an investment thesis, evaluating venture capital and direct investment opportunities and connecting emerging solutions to enterprise strategy. It shaped my leadership style because it reinforced the importance of curiosity, disciplined decision-making, and cross-functional trust. It also helped define the career path I continue to pursue today, connecting strategy, finance, innovation and health care impact.
How do you approach mentoring other women leaders?
I approach mentoring with curiosity, candor and encouragement. I try to create space to talk honestly about what they want, what is getting in the way, and where they may be underestimating themselves. My goal is to help mentees translate their strengths into action, build confidence in their leadership voice and expand the network of people who can advocate for them. I also believe mentoring should be practical, so I like to help women think through specific conversations, career options and next steps they can take right away.
What emerging trend in health care are you most excited about and why?
I’m excited by the ideas that make health care simpler, smarter and more accessible. I spend a lot of time looking at new companies and innovations, and the ones that get me most energized are those that align incentives across the health care system. The best solutions improve outcomes, lower costs, help providers succeed, and make it easier for people to access the care they need.
What is something that not many people know about you?
I love dancing and have been doing it for most of my life. I started line dancing with my mom in 1992, later fell in love with Lindy Hop Swing dancing six nights a week! I even competed nationally in West Coast Swing bringing home a couple of trophies. These days, I’m back to line dancing with my mom, and looking for a dance floor whenever I can. Beyond being fun, it’s my favorite exercise plan mixed with social time!
Words of wisdom to live by?
Stay curious, stay generous and do the hard things with enthusiasm. Health care is complex, and meaningful progress often requires patience, partnership and the willingness to keep learning. My goal is to lead with optimism and joy.