When Brett Pletcher stepped down from his role as the top lawyer at Gilead Sciences Inc. two years ago, he took the opportunity to embark on a journey of exploration and self-discovery across America’s national parks. Trading the boardroom for an RV, Pletcher and his wife Jennifer traveled extensively, visiting iconic sites like Arches National Park and Moab in Utah. Reflecting on his experiences during this period, Pletcher noted that these travels offered him a chance to rest and rejuvenate, ultimately allowing him to return to work with a renewed mindset and vigor.
Pletcher’s journey was not just about disconnecting from the daily grind but also a deeper exploration of personal and professional fulfillment. After a year on the road, he realized that while the scenic vistas and freedom were invigorating, he missed the intellectual challenges and camaraderie of working in the legal field. As he documented his travels on Instagram and Facebook, Pletcher was subtly preparing for a new chapter in his career.
Returning to the legal profession, Pletcher rejoined Gunderson Dettmer in a part-time of counsel role, where he provided strategic advice to general counsels and CEOs. This role allowed him to blend his new lifestyle with professional commitments, working remotely from his home in Las Vegas. His eventual move to Cytokinetics Inc. as the new general counsel came as a well-timed opportunity, especially with the company seeking experienced leadership amid ongoing developments in their biopharmaceutical research. The decision to join Cytokinetics was influenced by his connections with former colleagues and the dynamic challenges offered by the new role.
As Pletcher shared in an interview, his time away from the legal world offered valuable lessons in balance and reflection. He believes that his two-year hiatus provided a necessary break to recharge, and encouraged others to consider similar sabbaticals as a means to extend their careers and bring fresh perspectives to their work. The journey has left him reinvigorated, ready to tackle new challenges while occasionally retreating to the serenity of his RV adventures.
For a detailed account of Pletcher’s journey and return to the legal field, refer to the original article on Bloomberg Law.