Somatus Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Somatus has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, clinical, and legal.

Driven by a commitment to patient well-being, Somatus delivers specialized healthcare management for Chronic Kidney Disease and End Stage Renal Disease, significantly impacting patient outcomes and the healthcare landscape.

Leadership Roles at Somatus

  • Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Ikenna Okezie
  • Chief Financial Officer - Robert Ricketts
  • Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff - Derek Kung
  • Chief Medical Officer - Bassem Mikhael
  • Chief Legal Officer - Alicia Palmer
  • Ikenna Okezie - Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Ikenna Okezie, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Somatus, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the organization. Okezie guides the company's mission to transform care for patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), ensuring alignment across all operational facets. This leadership involves fostering innovation in patient management solutions and expanding the company's reach to serve a greater number of individuals facing kidney disease. By setting the strategic direction, Ikenna Okezie drives the development of integrated care models that improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs for this vulnerable patient population. The Chief Executive Officer's role encompasses cultivating key partnerships and ensuring the company's sustainable growth within the healthcare sector, directly impacting the lives of thousands of patients across the United States.
    Ikenna Okezie

    Robert Ricketts - Chief Financial Officer

    Robert Ricketts, the Chief Financial Officer at Somatus, oversees all financial operations and strategic financial planning. Ricketts manages the company's fiscal health, ensuring robust financial controls and driving profitability through effective resource allocation. This executive role involves developing financial models that support Somatus's expansion into new markets and the scaling of its specialized healthcare services for CKD and ESRD patients. By meticulously managing budgets and investments, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the financial sustainability of the organization's innovative care delivery programs. Robert Ricketts's financial acumen is critical for securing funding, optimizing revenue streams, and maintaining strong relationships with investors, thereby enabling the continued delivery of high-quality care to patients nationwide.

    Derek Kung - Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff

    Derek Kung, the Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff at Somatus, orchestrates critical operational initiatives and ensures seamless execution of the company's strategic objectives. Kung manages cross-functional collaboration, driving efficiency and effectiveness across departments dedicated to managing Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) patient care. This leadership position involves translating the CEO's vision into actionable plans and overseeing the implementation of operational improvements that enhance patient experience and clinical outcomes. By streamlining processes and fostering a culture of accountability, Derek Kung ensures that Somatus effectively scales its services and maintains its commitment to high-quality, patient-centered care. The Chief of Staff's role is pivotal in aligning internal operations with the company's mission to revolutionize kidney disease management.

    Bassem Mikhael - Chief Medical Officer

    Bassem Mikhael, the Chief Medical Officer at Somatus, leads the clinical strategy and ensures the highest standards of care for patients with kidney disease. Mikhael directs the development and implementation of evidence-based clinical protocols that optimize treatment for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) patients. This executive role involves overseeing the clinical teams, guiding medical innovation, and ensuring that patient care aligns with both regulatory requirements and Somatus's mission to improve health outcomes. By championing clinical excellence, Bassem Mikhael plays a vital part in enhancing the quality of life for individuals managing complex health conditions. The Chief Medical Officer's expertise is fundamental to the integrity and effectiveness of Somatus's specialized healthcare management services across the United States.
    Alicia Palmer, the Chief Legal Officer at Somatus, provides strategic legal counsel and ensures compliance across all business operations. Palmer oversees the legal framework supporting Somatus's mission to manage care for patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), safeguarding the company's interests and upholding ethical standards. This critical role involves managing regulatory affairs, advising on corporate governance, and mitigating legal risks associated with healthcare delivery. By ensuring adherence to all applicable laws and regulations, Alicia Palmer supports the company's ability to expand its specialized services and maintain patient trust. The Chief Legal Officer's guidance is essential for navigating the complex legal landscape of the healthcare industry and ensuring the long-term stability and integrity of Somatus's operations.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Somatus Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Somatus?
    Somatus is led by Ikenna Okezie (Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Robert Ricketts (Chief Financial Officer) and Derek Kung (Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Somatus’s executive team?
    The executive team of Somatus includes leaders such as Ikenna Okezie (Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Robert Ricketts (Chief Financial Officer), Derek Kung (Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Somatus have?
    Somatus has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Somatus’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Somatus includes roles such as Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff, Chief Medical Officer, Chief Legal Officer.