Growing with Guardian: Turning Optimism into Career Growth
Ulysses Orellana describes himself as just a “kid from LA,” but his determination and positive attitude have propelled his career at Guardian.
As the Account Manager Supervisor for Guardian’s southern California pharmacies, Orellana’s primary role is to inspire and motivate his team. He collaborates with both the field and operations teams to develop and implement systems that benefit both the communities and the pharmacy team. Additionally, he troubleshoots customer challenges and plays a key role in sales by leading the pharmacy onboarding process for new customers. He also oversees all pharmacy-led training for assisted living community customers.
Building a Career in Long-Term Care
Orellana’s journey into the long-term care (LTC) industry began right out of high school when he became a certified nursing assistant (CNA) at a skilled nursing facility. He later transitioned to assisted living communities, starting as a caregiver before advancing to med tech, resident care coordinator, and eventually into a sales and marketing role.
Making an Impact with Guardian
Orellana then joined Anaheim Plaza Pharmacy, where he served as the owner’s “right-hand man” for several years. When the pharmacy partnered with Guardian Pharmacy Services, he moved into an account representative role before advancing to his current position.
“Now, I have a team of people that I can share all the knowledge I’ve gained from others with,” Orellana said.
He takes pride in the impact his work has on people’s lives. The San Diego and Anaheim pharmacies serve over 10,000 residents across a diverse range of care settings including assisted living, behavioral health, residential care, and group homes.
“My favorite thing about my role is that I am able to help many residents without having to be there all the time. I can teach people how to do things or recommend solutions, and that, in turn, benefits the residents,” Orellana said
What Makes Guardian Account Managers like Ulysses Stand Out?
Each community served by Guardian is paired with a dedicated account manager—many of whom are nurses—who works directly with staff to support smooth pharmacy operations and exceptional resident care. What differentiates Guardian in the industry is its commitment to routine, in-person visits and personalized business reviews—offering partners a level of support and responsiveness that delivers measurable value.
On a daily basis, account managers are on-site addressing service needs, training staff on best practices, supporting regulatory compliance, and collaborating with pharmacy teams to resolve challenges efficiently. They also take a proactive role in conducting regular reviews with community leadership to identify areas for improvement and ensure alignment with care goals.
It is a hands-on, people-focused role that allows account managers to build strong relationships, solve real-world problems, and see the direct impact of their work on residents’ lives. The variety, autonomy, and opportunity for growth make this position both fulfilling and unique within the long-term care pharmacy space.
Opportunities for Growth and Success
Orellana credits Guardian for supporting his education and career growth over the past 10 years.
“Two years ago, I went back to nursing school. Guardian was fundamental in making that possible. Because of my schedule and my team, I was able to take classes at night, and I eventually graduated,” Orellana said.
Orellana received his educational degree in Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training from Stanbridge University in 2023. He also holds a California Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) Administrator Certification.
He emphasizes that his success stems from education, experience, and the support of his coworkers—but most of all, from the opportunities available at Guardian.
“There’s so much room for growth in this company. I was once someone’s right-hand man, bringing coffee and lunch to presentations. Now, I’m the one leading the presentations, speaking in front of large groups, and managing my own team,” Orellana said. “There’s potential for growth. You just have to be optimistic.”
Explore Careers at Guardian
From pharmacy technician and pharmacist roles to positions in finance, administration, and support services, Guardian offers opportunities across 50+ locally operated pharmacies and its corporate offices in Atlanta. For those interested in joining a growing company that values collaboration, innovation, and professional development, visit the careers page to LEARN MORE >
