“That [research] is where I found my sweet spot because we were always busy, and I was networking with [everyone from] first responders to healthcare, to community-based organizations, to state employees, and when I later transitioned into emergency management, I didn’t expect how closely the two fields would overlap.”
His work eventually led him to leadership roles as an instructor for the FEMA Center for Domestic Preparedness, and later to his current position as Director of National Emergency Management for Kaiser Permanente, where he leads enterprise-wide resiliency, response, and recovery efforts.
Now, Saruwatari is a professor in USC’s Master of Science in Emergency Management program. In this interview, Professor Saruwatari discusses his career journey, advice for prospective students, and how he incorporates real-world experiences from an emergency management career spanning over 30 years into the classroom.
What inspired you to pursue a career in emergency management, and what has your professional journey looked like?
I have always been drawn to work that makes a meaningful difference during challenging situations. Emergency management combines strategic planning, leadership, and
problem-solving in a way that directly impacts people’s safety, well-being, and resilience. What inspired me most was the opportunity to help people and organizations prepare for uncertainty and respond effectively when emergencies occur.
Throughout my career, I have worked across public health, healthcare, emergency preparedness, business continuity, and emergency medical services. Today, I serve as Director of National Emergency Management for Kaiser Permanente, where I help lead enterprise-wide preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. My career has provided opportunities to support everything from disasters and public health emergencies to large-scale operational disruptions, while collaborating with leaders and teams across the organization and our communities.
What does your day-to-day look like in the work you do outside of the classroom?
No two days are exactly the same. My role involves leading emergency management programs, supporting command center operations, coordinating preparedness initiatives, and collaborating with stakeholders across multiple regions and business units. A typical day may include strategic planning meetings, reviewing emergency preparedness plans, supporting exercise and training programs, analyzing emerging threats, and coordinating response activities for incidents that impact care delivery and business operations. I also spend a significant amount of time working with leaders to strengthen organizational resilience and ensure our teams are prepared to respond effectively to complex challenges.
Looking back on your career, what experiences have had the greatest impact on your professional growth, and how do you incorporate your real-world experience into your teaching at USC?
Some of the most impactful experiences in my career have been leading teams through real-world emergencies and periods of significant uncertainty. With each response, we have the opportunity to improve in so many areas. I try to bring those lessons learned directly into the classroom by connecting academic concepts to real-world applications. Students often benefit from understanding not just the theory behind emergency management and organizational resilience, but also how decisions are made during actual incidents. I try to use practical examples, case studies, and lessons learned from my professional experience to help students understand how these concepts translate into real-world outcomes.
What qualities or skills do you believe are essential for students who want to succeed in this profession?
Success in emergency management requires a combination of technical knowledge and strong interpersonal skills, with some of the most important qualities being strong communication and collaboration skills, as well as critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. We are always adapting to rapidly changing environments, so a commitment to continuous learning and professional development helps with leadership and decision-making under pressure. In conjunction with technical skills, the ability to build relationships using emotional intelligence and empathy, work across teams, and remain calm during uncertainty is often what distinguishes exceptional professionals in this field.
What drew you to teaching at USC Bovard College, and what excites you most about working with graduate students?
I was drawn to USC Bovard College because of its commitment to serving working professionals and creating opportunities for students to apply what they learn directly to their careers. Bovard College emphasizes practical, career-focused education that closely aligns with my professional philosophy. What excites me most about working with graduate students is the diversity of experiences they bring to the classroom. Many are already accomplished professionals who are looking to grow as leaders and expand their impact. I enjoy helping students connect theory to practice, challenge their assumptions, and develop the skills and confidence needed to lead in complex environments. I also really value their input and experiences, which can translate into improvements in my own professional programs.
What do you hope students take away from your courses, both professionally and personally?
Professionally, I hope students leave with practical tools, critical thinking skills, and a deeper understanding of leadership, resilience, and organizational preparedness. I want them to feel confident applying what they’ve learned in their own workplaces and communities. Personally, I hope they develop a growth mindset and recognize the value of adaptability, collaboration, and lifelong learning. The challenges we face today are increasingly complex, and success often depends on our ability to learn continuously, work effectively with others, and lead through uncertainty.
Enhance Your Emergency Management Career with the Support of Experienced Faculty
Along with an interdisciplinary curriculum focused on risk management, crisis leadership, emergency planning and strategic decision-making, the USC Master of Science in Emergency Management program is guided by expert faculty who are active practitioners in disaster response, public health, health, and beyond, students gain real-world perspectives on the evolving demands of the profession and how emergency management principles apply across industries.
Read more from Professor Saruwartari in Emergency Management Career Paths Beyond Disaster Response and explore how USC Bovard College can help you take the next step in your emergency management career.