Ballad Health Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ballad Health has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, revenue, information technology, human resources, medical operations, and market leadership.

Driven by a commitment to community well-being, Ballad Health operates as an integrated healthcare system dedicated to enhancing patient care and health outcomes across its extensive service region.

Leadership Roles at Ballad Health

  • Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer - Alan M Levine
  • Chief Financial Officer - Loree Ching
  • Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer - Corporate, Retail and Non-Acute Services - Joshua McFall
  • Chief Financial Officer, Ballad Health Southwest Virginia - Phillip Childree
  • Southwest Market Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Frank Canova
  • Wellmont Medical Assoicates Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Karen Williams
  • Chief Revenue Officer - Shana Tate
  • Chief Information Officer - Pamela Austin
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Deborah Dover
  • Chief Medical Officer - Jesse Sulzer
  • Alan M Levine - Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer

    Alan M Levine, the Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer at Ballad Health, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the integrated healthcare system. Levine guides the organization's mission to serve the counties of Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Northwest North Carolina, and Southeast Kentucky, ensuring alignment with community health needs and market dynamics. This leadership role involves setting the strategic vision for all clinical and administrative functions, fostering innovation in patient care delivery, and driving financial sustainability across the system. Levine's oversight extends to major capital investments, strategic partnerships, and regulatory compliance, positioning Ballad Health for long-term growth and impact. The Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that all operational decisions support the core values of quality, accessibility, and compassionate care, thereby solidifying the organization's commitment to the health and well-being of the populations served. Alan M Levine's executive direction is critical for navigating the complex healthcare landscape and maintaining Ballad Health's position as a leading regional provider.

    Loree Ching - Chief Financial Officer

    Loree Ching, the Chief Financial Officer at Ballad Health, manages the comprehensive financial operations and strategic fiscal planning for the integrated healthcare system. Ching oversees all aspects of financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, revenue cycle management, and capital allocation across the extensive service region spanning Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Northwest North Carolina, and Southeast Kentucky. This critical role involves ensuring the financial health and stability of Ballad Health, enabling continued investment in patient care, technology, and infrastructure. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with other executive leaders to develop financial strategies that support the organization's mission and growth objectives. Ching's expertise is vital for navigating complex reimbursement models, managing payer relationships, and optimizing financial performance to meet the healthcare needs of the communities served. Loree Ching's leadership ensures robust financial stewardship, underpinning Ballad Health's capacity to deliver high-quality, accessible healthcare services.
    Loree Ching

    Joshua McFall - Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer - Corporate, Retail and Non-Acute Services

    Joshua McFall, the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer - Corporate, Retail and Non-Acute Services at Ballad Health, manages the financial operations for specific segments of the integrated healthcare system. McFall oversees the financial health and strategic planning for corporate functions, retail operations, and non-acute service lines across the system's broad geographic reach. This role is critical for ensuring the fiscal integrity and efficiency of these distinct business units, supporting Ballad Health's overall financial stability and mission. The Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer - Corporate, Retail and Non-Acute Services works to optimize revenue, control costs, and manage financial risks within these specialized areas. Joshua McFall's financial acumen is instrumental in driving performance and growth for these vital components of the healthcare system, enabling Ballad Health to provide comprehensive care. McFall's leadership ensures these services contribute effectively to the organization's broader objectives.
    Joshua McFall

    Phillip Childree - Chief Financial Officer, Ballad Health Southwest Virginia

    Phillip Childree, the Chief Financial Officer, Ballad Health Southwest Virginia, directs financial strategy and operations specifically for the organization's presence in Southwest Virginia. Childree oversees budgeting, financial planning, revenue cycle management, and fiscal oversight for all services within this key region. This specialized role is crucial for ensuring the financial sustainability and operational effectiveness of Ballad Health's initiatives in Southwest Virginia, aligning with the broader system's mission. The Chief Financial Officer, Ballad Health Southwest Virginia collaborates with regional leadership to identify financial opportunities and mitigate risks, thereby enhancing the delivery of quality healthcare. Phillip Childree's financial expertise supports the strategic growth and operational excellence of Ballad Health's services in this important market. Childree's leadership ensures robust financial management tailored to the unique needs of the Southwest Virginia communities.

    Frank Canova - Southwest Market Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Frank Canova, the Southwest Market Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Ballad Health, leads financial strategy and operational oversight for the Southwest market. Canova manages financial planning, revenue cycle management, and fiscal operations, ensuring the economic health of Ballad Health's services within this key region. This dual role is essential for aligning financial objectives with market-specific operational needs, supporting the delivery of high-quality healthcare. The Southwest Market Vice President & Chief Financial Officer works closely with regional leaders to drive performance, optimize resource allocation, and ensure compliance with financial regulations. Frank Canova's leadership is critical for the strategic growth and financial stability of Ballad Health's operations in the Southwest market. Canova's expertise ensures that financial decisions directly support the organization's commitment to serving the communities effectively.
    Frank Canova

    Karen Williams - Wellmont Medical Assoicates Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Karen Williams, the Wellmont Medical Associates Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Ballad Health, drives operational excellence and strategic execution for Wellmont Medical Associates. Williams oversees the day-to-day operations, ensuring efficient service delivery and high-quality patient care across the associated facilities. This leadership position is vital for optimizing operational workflows, managing resources effectively, and implementing strategic initiatives that enhance patient outcomes and satisfaction. The Wellmont Medical Associates Vice President & Chief Operating Officer collaborates with clinical teams and administrative staff to foster a culture of continuous improvement and operational efficiency. Karen Williams's operational leadership ensures that Wellmont Medical Associates effectively contributes to Ballad Health's overall mission of providing comprehensive and accessible healthcare. Williams's focus is on enhancing the operational performance and strategic alignment of these critical medical associates.

    Shana Tate - Chief Revenue Officer

    Shana Tate, the Chief Revenue Officer at Ballad Health, spearheads initiatives to optimize revenue generation and financial performance across the integrated healthcare system. Tate directs strategies for maximizing reimbursement, enhancing patient financial services, and improving the overall revenue cycle management throughout Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Northwest North Carolina, and Southeast Kentucky. This executive position is crucial for ensuring the financial viability of Ballad Health, allowing for sustained investment in patient care and operational improvements. The Chief Revenue Officer collaborates with clinical and administrative departments to identify opportunities for revenue enhancement and cost containment. Shana Tate's focus includes developing innovative approaches to billing, collections, and payer contracting, directly impacting the organization's ability to serve its communities effectively. Tate's leadership ensures that Ballad Health maintains a strong financial foundation to support its mission of providing accessible, high-quality healthcare.

    Pamela Austin - Chief Information Officer

    Pamela Austin, the Chief Information Officer at Ballad Health, leads the strategic development and implementation of information technology infrastructure and digital solutions across the integrated healthcare system. Austin oversees all aspects of IT operations, including electronic health records, cybersecurity, data analytics, and telecommunications, supporting services in Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Northwest North Carolina, and Southeast Kentucky. This role is pivotal in enhancing patient care delivery, improving operational efficiency, and ensuring data security and compliance. The Chief Information Officer works to leverage technology to drive innovation, streamline workflows, and provide seamless access to health information for both patients and providers. Pamela Austin's vision guides the technological advancements that underpin Ballad Health's commitment to modern, efficient, and patient-centered healthcare. Austin's leadership ensures that the organization remains at the forefront of health IT, supporting its mission to improve the health of the region.
    Pamela Austin

    Deborah Dover - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Deborah Dover, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Ballad Health, directs all human capital management strategies and initiatives for the integrated healthcare system. Dover oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, organizational development, and workforce planning across Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Northwest North Carolina, and Southeast Kentucky. This executive function is essential for cultivating a skilled, engaged, and motivated workforce dedicated to Ballad Health's mission. The Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that HR policies and practices align with the organization's strategic goals, fostering a positive and productive work environment. Deborah Dover's leadership focuses on attracting and retaining top talent, promoting diversity and inclusion, and supporting employee well-being to enhance patient care outcomes. Dover's strategic approach to human resources strengthens Ballad Health's ability to deliver exceptional healthcare services by prioritizing its most valuable asset: its people.
    Deborah Dover

    Jesse Sulzer - Chief Medical Officer

    Jesse Sulzer, the Chief Medical Officer at Ballad Health, provides clinical leadership and strategic direction for all medical affairs across the integrated healthcare system. Sulzer oversees clinical quality initiatives, patient safety programs, and medical staff development, ensuring the highest standards of care are met throughout Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Northwest North Carolina, and Southeast Kentucky. This executive role is fundamental to maintaining clinical excellence and advancing the organization's commitment to patient well-being. The Chief Medical Officer collaborates with administrative leaders to integrate clinical best practices into all aspects of healthcare delivery and operational planning. Jesse Sulzer's medical expertise guides clinical decision-making, fosters innovation in patient treatment, and champions a culture of compassionate, evidence-based medicine. Sulzer's leadership ensures that Ballad Health consistently delivers exceptional medical care and achieves positive health outcomes for the populations served.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ballad Health Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Ballad Health?
    Ballad Health is led by Alan M Levine (Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Loree Ching (Chief Financial Officer) and Joshua McFall (Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer - Corporate, Retail and Non-Acute Services).
    Who is part of Ballad Health’s executive team?
    The executive team of Ballad Health includes leaders such as Alan M Levine (Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer), Loree Ching (Chief Financial Officer), Joshua McFall (Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer - Corporate, Retail and Non-Acute Services) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Ballad Health have?
    Ballad Health has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Ballad Health’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Ballad Health includes roles such as Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer - Corporate, Retail and Non-Acute Services, Chief Financial Officer, Ballad Health Southwest Virginia, Southwest Market Vice President & Chief Financial Officer.