Professional Role and Company Position
Gary Samuels currently holds the position of Vice President, Chief Communications Officer at Quest Diagnostics, a role he has occupied since March 2017. Quest Diagnostics is the United States’ leading provider of diagnostic testing, information, and services, specializing in esoteric and gene-based medical testing. The company empowers healthcare organizations and clinicians by delivering insights that enable better health outcomes.
As the Chief Communications Officer, Gary Samuels is responsible for overseeing Quest Diagnostics' corporate communications strategy, playing a critical role in shaping the company’s external and internal messaging. His leadership encompasses media relations, corporate social responsibility communications, brand storytelling, and stakeholder engagement. Samuels has been publicly recognized for his work in launching new strategic directions that elevate Quest Diagnostics' reputation and market presence.
Professional Experience and Contributions
Gary Samuels has been actively involved in enhancing Quest Diagnostics’ communications amidst significant corporate growth and transformation. Notable accomplishments during his tenure include:
- Leading communications through major corporate acquisitions including the $934 million cash acquisition of LabOne and the approximately $2 billion acquisition of AmeriPath, expanding Quest Diagnostics’ laboratory network and service capacity.
- Supporting digital workplace transformation initiatives at Quest Diagnostics starting from a pilot in June 2018, reflecting his role in integrating communication with organizational change.
- Driving communications supporting Quest’s positioning in healthcare innovation and corporate social responsibility initiatives, notably contributing to promotions around health equity and global inclusion programs.
- Representing Quest Diagnostics in media relations, including serving as a company spokesperson for critical announcements such as new testing services like QuesTest™, and communicating financial results and strategic developments.
- Championing authentic purpose-driven initiatives, as evidenced by involvement in campaigns recognized in industry forums such as the PRWeek Purpose Awards.
Industry Recognition and Public Presence
Samuels was recognized among PR Week’s 40 Under 40 in 2013 during his early time at Quest Diagnostics, underlining his impact as a communications leader. He consistently engages in thought leadership around healthcare communications, and corporate responsibility, with a focus on advancing patient-centered health outcomes.
He maintains a professional presence on LinkedIn ([linkedin.com/in/garydsamuels](https://www.linkedin.com/in/garydsamuels)) with over 500 connections and approximately 1,200 followers. This platform serves as a channel where he shares insights related to healthcare, communications, and corporate purpose initiatives.
Company Context and Recent Performance
Quest Diagnostics, as the market leader in diagnostic testing, reported revenue growth of 14% in Q2 of 2024, reaching approximately $1.2 billion, reflecting successful integration of acquisitions and organic growth in esoteric and specialty testing services. The company emphasizes sustained investment in innovation and technology to differentiate its service offerings. Quest Diagnostics is also noted for promoting diversity and gender equality at the board and management levels, with women holding 43% of board seats.
The communications team led by Samuels plays a significant role in reinforcing Quest’s brand as a trusted leader in healthcare diagnostics and a proactive corporate citizen focused on health equity and innovation.
Contact and Location
- Based in New York, NY.
- Serves as a key media contact for Quest Diagnostics.
- Associated media contact number for Quest Diagnostics attributed to Samuels: +1-201-393-5700.
This profile indicates that Gary Samuels occupies a senior role integral to crafting and delivering Quest Diagnostics' strategic communications internally and externally. His background and role underscore the importance of aligning communications with corporate growth, acquisitions, innovation, and social responsibility—key considerations for partners and stakeholders engaging with Quest Diagnostics at an executive level.
