Jill Hunter, RPh, MBA, is a career transformation expert, leadership coach, and business strategist dedicated to helping professionals navigate career transitions, secure leadership positions, and achieve their highest potential. With a career spanning 30 years across multiple industries, Jill has successfully led teams, optimized business operations, and mentored individuals toward professional success. As the founder of UpLevel To Lead, she has pioneered a unique coaching methodology that combines career strategy, leadership development, and empathy-driven management to empower professionals in creating their dream roles.
Jill’s career journey has been diverse and dynamic, spanning roles in pharmacy, medical device manufacturers, business leadership, and entrepreneurship. Before founding UpLevel To Lead, she held leadership positions at New England Life Care, Partners Pharmacy, and CVS Health, where she transformed operations, improved efficiencies, and cultivated high-performing teams. Her extensive background in career coaching, strategic planning, and executive leadership gives her the ability to provide actionable career insights and impactful leadership training to professionals across industries.
As a career coach and empathy leadership coach, Jill specializes in career transitions, salary negotiations, interview preparation, and leadership development. She has helped clients overcome job search challenges, applicant tracking system (ATS) black holes, and career stagnation, guiding them to higher-paying remote roles and securing better job opportunities. Her C.A.R.E. Leadership Model—Communicate Honestly, Actively Listen, Reassure Impartially, Empathize Deeply—has been instrumental in helping businesses and individuals create meaningful professional relationships and workplace cultures that thrive.
Jill’s impact is best measured by her clients’ success. She has helped professionals increase their salaries by 20-35%, transition into new industries, and secure leadership roles in competitive markets. Her expertise in resume writing, LinkedIn optimization, and job search strategy has transformed careers, empowering individuals to reinvent themselves and confidently navigate the ever-changing job market. Through personalized coaching, Jill helps clients identify their unique strengths, develop career roadmaps, and position themselves as top candidates in their respective fields.
Beyond individual coaching, Jill is a dynamic speaker who has delivered keynote presentations at Women in Bio and the Powerful and Passionate Healthcare Professional Summit, among other engagements. She is passionate about mentoring future leaders, having served in Northeastern University’s Women Who Empower Mentoring Program, where she guides young professionals in building confidence, honing leadership skills, and developing strategic career paths.
Jill’s business acumen extends beyond coaching and leadership development. As a former business owner and entrepreneur, she founded Hunter Pace Tack Shop, an innovative equestrian retail business that combined customer experience, marketing strategy, and product positioning to serve niche markets. Her expertise in product marketing, business operations, and financial strategy allows her to bring holistic career and business guidance to her clients, whether they are job seekers, executives, or entrepreneurs.
Her pharmaceutical and healthcare background further strengthens her leadership credentials. As director of pharmacy at New England Life Care, she transformed employee culture, implemented strategic process improvements, and optimized P&L management, demonstrating her ability to drive efficiency and performance in complex environments. She holds active pharmacist licenses in Connecticut and Massachusetts and has worked in product management, pharmaceutical sales, and healthcare operations, giving her a well-rounded perspective on leadership and business strategy.
Jill is deeply committed to giving back through her work in animal welfare and mentorship. For over 20 years, she has volunteered as a foster home provider for Alaskan Malamute Rescue of New England, offering rehabilitation and care for rescue dogs. She believes in the power of choice—whether in career transitions, leadership, or personal growth—and teaches both humans and animals how to make informed, empowered decisions.
Her ability to connect with people on a deep, meaningful level sets her apart as a leader and mentor. Jill understands that every career journey is unique, and she meets clients where they are, providing customized strategies that align with their strengths, values, and aspirations. Whether working with entry-level professionals, mid-career changers, or senior executives, she ensures that each client is equipped with the skills, mindset, and strategy needed to succeed.
As a respected career coach, leadership expert, and strategic thinker, Jill Hunter continues to transform lives, inspire leaders, and drive career success for individuals across industries. Through UpLevel To Lead, she is redefining how professionals approach career growth, leadership development, and business success—one transformational journey at a time.
Character:
Jill embodies integrity, empathy, and unwavering ethics, fostering trust and confidence among clients, colleagues, and mentees. She believes that leadership starts with authenticity and a deep commitment to empowering others, ensuring that those she works with feel valued and supported in their journey.
Knowledge:
Her expertise spans career coaching, leadership development, business strategy, operations, and healthcare management, making her a versatile and valuable advisor. With a foundation in both professional coaching and corporate leadership, she brings a unique combination of insight, experience, and practical solutions to individuals and organizations alike.
Strategic:
Jill has a proven track record of developing career roadmaps, optimizing business operations, and transforming leadership effectiveness in both individuals and organizations. She approaches each challenge with a strategic mindset, ensuring that her clients are equipped with the tools, confidence, and direction needed to navigate complex career and business decisions.
Communication:
She excels in public speaking, coaching, and executive mentoring, using clarity, empathy, and influence to drive meaningful career and business outcomes. Whether addressing large audiences or working one-on-one, Jill’s ability to connect, inspire, and guide professionals has made her an in-demand speaker, mentor, and leadership expert.