Ballad Health Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to community well-being, Ballad Health provides comprehensive healthcare services across a multi-state region, focusing on accessible, high-quality patient care and operational excellence.

Leadership Roles at Ballad Health

  • Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer - Alan M Levine
  • Chief Executive Officer, Smyth County Community Hospital - Dale Clark
  • Chief Financial Officer - Ryan Harrington
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer - Acute Services and Market Operations - Sean McNally
  • Chief Operating Officer - Daniel Taylor
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Eric Deaton
  • 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
  • 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 communities across Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Northwest North Carolina, and Southeast Kentucky. This leadership role involves setting the strategic vision, ensuring financial health, and fostering a culture of patient-centered care. Levine's oversight extends to all major functional areas, aligning departmental objectives with the system's long-term goals. The Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer drives initiatives aimed at enhancing service delivery, expanding access to care, and maintaining the highest standards of clinical quality. Alan M Levine ensures Ballad Health remains a vital resource for the regions it serves, navigating the complexities of the healthcare landscape with decisive leadership.

    Dale Clark - Chief Executive Officer, Smyth County Community Hospital

    Dale Clark, the Chief Executive Officer, Smyth County Community Hospital at Ballad Health, leads the strategic direction and operational management of this specific hospital facility. Clark ensures the delivery of high-quality patient care and efficient operations within the Smyth County community, aligning with Ballad Health's broader mission. This role involves overseeing all hospital departments, managing financial performance, and fostering strong relationships with medical staff and the local community. The Chief Executive Officer, Smyth County Community Hospital is responsible for implementing system-wide initiatives at the facility level and adapting strategies to meet local healthcare needs. Dale Clark's leadership is focused on enhancing patient outcomes and operational excellence for Smyth County Community Hospital. Clark drives the hospital's contribution to the regional healthcare network.
    Dale Clark

    Ryan Harrington - Chief Financial Officer

    Ryan Harrington, the Chief Financial Officer at Ballad Health, manages the financial health and strategic fiscal planning for the integrated healthcare system. Harrington oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, revenue cycle management, and capital allocation across the multi-state service area. This role is critical in ensuring the financial sustainability of Ballad Health's extensive network of hospitals and services. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with other executive leaders to optimize financial performance, identify cost-saving opportunities, and secure resources for strategic growth initiatives. Ryan Harrington's expertise is vital in navigating complex reimbursement models and maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions. Harrington drives financial discipline to support the delivery of high-quality, accessible healthcare.

    Sean McNally - Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer - Acute Services and Market Operations

    Sean McNally, the Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer - Acute Services and Market Operations at Ballad Health, oversees the financial management and strategic fiscal planning for the system's acute care services and market operations. McNally directs financial analysis, budgeting, and revenue cycle management specifically for acute services across Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Northwest North Carolina, and Southeast Kentucky. This role is essential for ensuring the financial viability and operational efficiency of the system's core hospital functions. The Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer - Acute Services and Market Operations collaborates closely with operational leaders to optimize financial performance and support strategic growth initiatives. Sean McNally's financial acumen guides investment decisions and resource allocation for critical healthcare services. McNally ensures robust financial oversight for Ballad Health's acute care delivery.

    Daniel Taylor - Chief Operating Officer

    Daniel Taylor, the Chief Operating Officer at Ballad Health, oversees the day-to-day operational efficiency and service delivery across the integrated healthcare system. Taylor directs the execution of strategic initiatives, ensuring seamless operations within hospitals and clinics serving Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Northwest North Carolina, and Southeast Kentucky. This role involves optimizing resource allocation, improving patient flow, and enhancing the overall patient experience. The Chief Operating Officer collaborates with clinical teams to maintain high standards of care and operational excellence. Daniel Taylor's responsibilities include driving process improvements, managing operational budgets, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. Taylor's focus is on strengthening the system's operational capabilities to meet community healthcare needs.

    Eric Deaton - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Eric Deaton, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Ballad Health, directs critical operational functions and strategic execution across the integrated healthcare system. Deaton's purview includes managing key operational divisions and driving efficiency improvements throughout Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Northwest North Carolina, and Southeast Kentucky. This leadership position involves overseeing complex projects, optimizing resource utilization, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality patient care. The Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer works in tandem with other senior leaders to advance the organization's strategic priorities and operational goals. Eric Deaton's extensive experience is instrumental in navigating the challenges of healthcare delivery and enhancing system-wide performance. Deaton focuses on operational excellence to support Ballad Health's mission.
    Eric Deaton

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

    Karen Williams, the Wellmont Medical Assoicates Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Ballad Health, manages key operational aspects and strategic implementation within the Wellmont Medical Associates division. Williams oversees operational efficiency and service delivery, ensuring alignment with Ballad Health's overall objectives across its service regions. This position involves driving performance improvements, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing patient care delivery within the scope of Wellmont Medical Associates. The Wellmont Medical Assoicates Vice President & Chief Operating Officer collaborates with senior leadership to execute strategic plans and achieve operational excellence. Karen Williams' expertise is vital in navigating the specific operational demands of this division. Williams focuses on strengthening the operational framework to support Ballad Health's comprehensive healthcare mission.

    Shana Tate - Chief Revenue Officer

    Shana Tate, the Chief Revenue Officer at Ballad Health, spearheads strategies to optimize revenue generation and enhance financial performance across the integrated healthcare system. Tate directs initiatives focused on maximizing reimbursement, improving patient access to services, and driving growth in key service lines throughout Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Northwest North Carolina, and Southeast Kentucky. This position involves close collaboration with clinical and operational leaders to ensure seamless patient journeys and efficient revenue capture. The Chief Revenue Officer analyzes market trends and payer dynamics to develop effective pricing and contracting strategies. Shana Tate's leadership ensures Ballad Health can continue to invest in advanced medical technologies and patient care programs. Tate's focus is on sustainable revenue growth to support the organization's mission.

    Pamela Austin - Chief Information Officer

    Pamela Austin, the Chief Information Officer at Ballad Health, leads the strategic development and implementation of information technology systems across the integrated healthcare network. Austin oversees the technology infrastructure that supports clinical operations, patient care, and administrative functions throughout Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Northwest North Carolina, and Southeast Kentucky. This critical role ensures the security, reliability, and advancement of all IT resources, including electronic health records, data analytics, and digital health platforms. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with executive leadership to align technology strategies with the organization's mission and patient care objectives. Pamela Austin drives innovation in health IT to enhance efficiency, improve patient outcomes, and support data-driven decision-making. Austin's vision guides Ballad Health's technological evolution.
    Pamela Austin

    Deborah Dover - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Deborah Dover, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Ballad Health, directs all human capital strategies and initiatives for the integrated healthcare system. Dover oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation and benefits, and employee relations across Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, Northwest North Carolina, and Southeast Kentucky. This role is crucial in building and maintaining a skilled, engaged workforce capable of delivering exceptional patient care. The Chief Human Resources Officer ensures HR policies and practices support Ballad Health's mission, values, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. Deborah Dover's leadership focuses on creating a positive work environment, fostering professional growth, and ensuring compliance with labor laws. Dover is dedicated to attracting and retaining top talent to serve the organization's needs.
    Deborah Dover

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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 Dale Clark (Chief Executive Officer, Smyth County Community Hospital) and Ryan Harrington (Chief Financial Officer).
    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), Dale Clark (Chief Executive Officer, Smyth County Community Hospital), Ryan Harrington (Chief Financial Officer) 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 Executive Officer, Smyth County Community Hospital, Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer - Acute Services and Market Operations, Chief Operating Officer.