Somatus Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Somatus has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, medical affairs, legal, and market expansion.

Dedicated to transforming care for patients with chronic kidney disease, Somatus drives innovation in healthcare management, improving outcomes and quality of life across the United States.

Leadership Roles at Somatus

  • Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Ikenna Okezie
  • Chief Financial Officer - Robert Ricketts
  • President - Don French
  • 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 company's specialized healthcare management services. Okezie architects the expansion of Somatus's reach, focusing on delivering advanced care solutions for patients managing Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). This leadership role involves fostering key partnerships and ensuring operational excellence across all facets of the organization. By guiding the executive team, Ikenna Okezie drives the company's mission to improve patient outcomes and enhance the quality of life for individuals navigating complex renal conditions. The Chief Executive Officer's strategic direction ensures Somatus remains at the forefront of innovation in kidney disease management, impacting patient care 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 for the organization. Ricketts manages capital allocation, investment strategies, and financial risk mitigation, ensuring the fiscal health and sustainable growth of Somatus. This executive function involves close collaboration with other C-suite leaders to align financial objectives with the company's mission of transforming care for CKD and ESRD patients. By optimizing financial performance, Robert Ricketts supports the expansion of critical healthcare services nationwide. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is vital in securing resources for innovative patient care programs and maintaining robust financial reporting standards across the United States.

    Don French - President

    Don French, the President at Somatus, drives operational execution and market expansion for the company's innovative healthcare solutions. French oversees key business units, ensuring the effective delivery of services to patients managing Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). This leadership role involves fostering strategic partnerships and optimizing operational workflows to enhance patient care and outcomes. By leading the operational teams, Don French reinforces Somatus's commitment to transforming kidney disease management across the United States. The President's focus on operational excellence is critical for scaling the company's impact and achieving its mission.

    Derek Kung - Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff

    Derek Kung, the Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff at Somatus, manages critical operational initiatives and drives strategic execution across the company. Kung ensures seamless integration of departmental functions, supporting the delivery of specialized healthcare management for CKD and ESRD patients. This leadership position involves overseeing cross-functional projects and enhancing organizational efficiency to meet patient care demands. By coordinating efforts between executive leadership and operational teams, Derek Kung facilitates the company's growth and commitment to improving patient outcomes. The Chief of Staff's role is pivotal in translating strategic goals into actionable plans, reinforcing Somatus's impact on healthcare management throughout the United States.

    Bassem Mikhael - Chief Medical Officer

    Bassem Mikhael, the Chief Medical Officer at Somatus, leads the clinical strategy and medical affairs for the company's specialized kidney disease management programs. Mikhael guides the development and implementation of evidence-based care protocols for patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). This critical role involves ensuring the highest standards of clinical quality and patient safety across all service lines. By directing medical teams and advising on clinical innovation, Bassem Mikhael enhances the effectiveness of Somatus's patient care initiatives. The Chief Medical Officer's expertise is fundamental to advancing the company's mission of improving health outcomes for renal patients nationwide.
    Alicia Palmer, the Chief Legal Officer at Somatus, directs all legal affairs and ensures regulatory compliance for the company's healthcare management services. Palmer oversees corporate governance, risk management, and legal strategy, safeguarding the organization's operations and patient interests. This executive function involves navigating complex healthcare regulations and advising leadership on legal implications of business decisions. By managing legal frameworks, Alicia Palmer supports the expansion of Somatus's specialized care for CKD and ESRD patients across the United States. The Chief Legal Officer's counsel is essential for maintaining ethical practices and fostering trust within the healthcare ecosystem.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Hospitals & Physicians Clinics

    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 Don French (President).
    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), Don French (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Somatus have?
    Somatus has 6 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, President, Executive Vice President & Chief of Staff, Chief Medical Officer.