Before Providence Senior Executive Assistant James S. Bradley joined Providence, he worked in an environment he calls, “toxic to the LGBTQIA+ community,” and swore he’d never work for another faith-based organization. He thought, “How could I work at and support a company’s misaligned values? Luckily, I opted to move on instead of giving in.”

After initial reluctance due his past experience, James’ journey began as a contractor at Swedish Medical Group, part of the Providence family of organizations. And he says, “It was the best decision of my professional career.”

A reflection of the values he was looking for

When he joined Providence, James realized it is a welcoming employer to all. He saw and interacted with LGBTQIA+ caregivers in his workdays—several of them in core leader roles. He says, “That realization permitted a mental reset and eased my stress. I have always aimed to work for an employer where their values and beliefs mirrored my own. Providence was the reflection I am looking for.” James hopes to spend the rest of his career with Providence—he’s been here now for 10 years and counting.

Helping other LGBTQIA+ caregivers feel included

James prioritizes making all feel welcome at Providence, particularly those in the LGBTQIA+ community, as a member of two LGBTQIA+ Caregiver Resource Groups (CRGs). Open to members of the LGBTQIA+ community and allies across Providence, these groups aim to promote a work environment that is inclusive and diverse—and celebrates underrepresented individuals and communities. One of the more notable LGBTQIA+ events James’ CRG participates in is the annual Seattle Pride parade June. For James, the event has been particularly memorable the past two years because Sister Susanne Hartung, Sister of Providence and division chief mission officer, walked with the group as a show of solidarity. Says James, “Providence does not shy away from being a trailblazer with diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging of each caregiver and patient.”

Fostering the Mission in a non-clinical role

James says Providence is focused on recognizing the successes of all caregivers, whether patient facing or not, and making improvements as needed to ensure all feel welcome. Through his senior administrative role James supports the Mission to ensure all are cared for in our communities. “I always look forward to the next business day.”

Non-clinical roles are incredibly important to Providence delivering world-class health care. If you’re called to serve like James and are interested in working in a non-clinical capacity, we’re hiring in:

• Information technology
• Revenue cycle
• Operations
• Administration
• Supply chain

James explains that people may feel their skills won’t translate to health care, but that might not be true. “Prior to being called to Providence, my career included nonlinear roles—from inventory management, sales order administration, shipping and receiving, data entry to receptionist and office coordinator—but a fair amount of those skills are transferrable to multiple positions at Providence.”

He urges everyone—regardless of background or beliefs—to consider joining Providence. “I encourage my friends, family and others to apply for any qualified position with the Providence family of organizations.”

Says James, “I was skeptical that I would feel safe to be myself. However, I could not have been more wrong. Providence welcomes caregivers from any walk of life without discrimination.” 

If you’d like to work for an organization that prioritizes inclusivity and development as part our Mission, see open roles.