Ardent Health Strengthens Leadership Team with New COO and Executive Promotions

Ardent Health Services, a Tennessee-based healthcare provider, has announced significant changes to its executive leadership team, including the appointment of a new Chief Operating Officer and the promotion of three key executives. These strategic moves aim to bolster the company's operational efficiency and drive growth initiatives across its extensive network of hospitals and care sites.

Dave Caspers Appointed as Chief Operating Officer

Ardent Health has named Dave Caspers as its new Chief Operating Officer, filling a long-standing vacancy in the company's executive ranks. Caspers, who brings a diverse background in retail and healthcare operations, will be responsible for spearheading strategic growth initiatives across Ardent's portfolio of 30 hospitals and 280 care sites in six states.

Prior to joining Ardent, Caspers served as the Chief Stores Officer at Leslie's, a pool supply company. His experience also includes a stint as Vice President of Omnichannel Operations at Walmart Health, where he oversaw in-store clinics and virtual health services. Caspers' appointment is expected to leverage his expertise in scaling operating models and expanding service delivery to new markets.

Executive Promotions Reflect Evolving Organizational Priorities

In addition to Caspers' appointment, Ardent Health has announced promotions for three executives, signaling a shift in organizational focus and responsibilities:

1. Anika Gardenhire has been elevated to the role of Chief Digital and Transformation Officer, expanding her previous position as Chief Digital and Information Officer. This change reflects the growing importance of digital transformation in Ardent's strategic initiatives. Gardenhire will lead the company's technology, consumer services, and enterprise project management teams.

2. Rebecca Kirkham has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer. In her new capacity, Kirkham will oversee communications initiatives, reputation management, and culture-building projects, expanding her previous role as Vice President and Chief Communications Officer.

3. Reed Smith, formerly Vice President and Chief Consumer Officer, has been promoted to Senior Vice President. Smith will continue to lead consumer experience and engagement projects, reporting directly to Anika Gardenhire in the new organizational structure.

These leadership changes at Ardent Health Services underscore the company's commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities, digital transformation efforts, and strategic growth initiatives in an increasingly competitive healthcare landscape.