Baptist Health Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Baptist Health has 10 executives leading key functions including organizational strategy, financial management, clinical operations, and digital infrastructure.

Committed to advancing community wellness, Baptist Health delivers comprehensive medical services through a vast network of hospitals and specialized care facilities across multiple states to ensure accessible, high-quality patient outcomes.

Leadership Roles at Baptist Health

  • Chief Executive Officer - Nathaniel Ortiz
  • Foundation Chief Executive Officer - Robert Baal
  • Chief Executive Officer & Executive Medical Director, Cancer Institute & Baptist Health Cancer Care (Miami) - Michael Zinner
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Troy Wells
  • Chief Executive Officer, System Baptist Heart & Vascular - Tom Nguyen
  • Chief Financial Officer - John Burgett
  • Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Keith Tickell
  • Chief Operating Officer, BHMG - Shelley Neal
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Lawrence Montgomery
  • Chief Information Officer - Tricia Julian
  • Nathaniel Ortiz - Chief Executive Officer

    Nathaniel Ortiz, the Chief Executive Officer at Baptist Health, directs the overarching strategic vision for this nonprofit healthcare organization. Ortiz manages the integration of nine hospitals and over 300 care facilities to maintain consistent service standards across Kentucky and surrounding regions. By aligning clinical goals with operational efficiency, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that urgent care, physical therapy, and diagnostic services meet evolving patient needs. Nathaniel Ortiz monitors system-wide performance metrics to optimize resource allocation and improve health outcomes. This leadership role involves collaborating with the Board to expand the reach of home care services and mobile health solutions. Through rigorous oversight of the entire network, the Chief Executive Officer drives sustainable growth while upholding the mission of providing accessible medical care to diverse populations across the operational footprint.
    Nathaniel Ortiz

    Robert Baal - Foundation Chief Executive Officer

    Robert Baal, the Foundation Chief Executive Officer at Baptist Health, manages philanthropic initiatives and capital development to support the organization's medical mission. Baal coordinates fundraising efforts that provide essential resources for hospital infrastructure, advanced medical technology, and community health programs. The Foundation Chief Executive Officer cultivates relationships with donors and stakeholders to secure long-term financial stability for the nonprofit network. By directing the allocation of charitable funds, Robert Baal enables the expansion of specialized services and inpatient rehabilitation facilities. This role requires close coordination with clinical leadership to identify priority areas for investment that directly enhance patient care delivery. Through strategic engagement and resource management, the Foundation Chief Executive Officer strengthens the financial foundation necessary for the organization to maintain its status as a premier healthcare provider across the region.

    Michael Zinner - Chief Executive Officer & Executive Medical Director, Cancer Institute & Baptist Health Cancer Care (Miami)

    Michael Zinner, the Chief Executive Officer & Executive Medical Director, Cancer Institute & Baptist Health Cancer Care (Miami) at Baptist Health, architects specialized oncology programs to deliver advanced cancer treatments. Zinner oversees clinical protocols and research integration within the Cancer Institute to ensure patients receive cutting-edge care. The Chief Executive Officer & Executive Medical Director, Cancer Institute & Baptist Health Cancer Care (Miami) manages multidisciplinary teams of oncologists and support staff to maintain high standards of clinical excellence. Michael Zinner drives the expansion of cancer care services, focusing on improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy. This leadership position involves coordinating with other system executives to integrate oncology services into the broader Baptist Health network. By prioritizing innovation and patient-centered care, the Chief Executive Officer & Executive Medical Director, Cancer Institute & Baptist Health Cancer Care (Miami) elevates the organization's reputation in specialized medical fields.

    Troy Wells - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Troy Wells, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Baptist Health, leads the executive team in executing the organization's long-term operational strategy. Wells oversees the daily administration of the nonprofit network, ensuring that all 300-plus care facilities operate in alignment with corporate objectives. The President & Chief Executive Officer manages the complex balance between clinical quality and financial performance across multiple states. Troy Wells drives initiatives to modernize healthcare delivery, including the implementation of digital tools and mobile applications for patient convenience. This role involves frequent interaction with the Board to report on system performance and strategic growth opportunities. By fostering a culture of excellence and accountability, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that the organization remains a leader in regional healthcare, consistently meeting the needs of patients through integrated, high-quality medical services.
    Troy Wells

    Tom Nguyen - Chief Executive Officer, System Baptist Heart & Vascular

    Tom Nguyen, the Chief Executive Officer, System Baptist Heart & Vascular at Baptist Health, directs the strategic development of cardiovascular and vascular health services. Nguyen manages the clinical and operational performance of heart care programs across the entire hospital network. The Chief Executive Officer, System Baptist Heart & Vascular coordinates with medical staff to implement advanced surgical techniques and diagnostic procedures for cardiac patients. Tom Nguyen drives the expansion of vascular services to ensure comprehensive coverage for patients throughout the region. This leadership role involves optimizing the patient journey from initial diagnosis to rehabilitation, ensuring seamless transitions between care settings. By focusing on clinical outcomes and operational efficiency, the Chief Executive Officer, System Baptist Heart & Vascular strengthens the organization's position as a premier provider of specialized heart care, ultimately improving long-term health results for the community.

    John Burgett - Chief Financial Officer

    John Burgett, the Chief Financial Officer at Baptist Health, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the organization. Burgett oversees financial reporting, revenue cycle management, and capital investment strategies to support the nonprofit's mission. The Chief Financial Officer monitors economic trends and regulatory changes to ensure the organization maintains a robust financial position. John Burgett directs the allocation of funds across the network, prioritizing investments in medical technology and facility upgrades. This role involves collaborating with other C-suite leaders to align financial goals with operational requirements. By implementing rigorous cost-control measures and revenue optimization strategies, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the organization possesses the necessary resources to provide high-quality care. Through disciplined financial oversight, Burgett supports the long-term sustainability and growth of the entire healthcare system.

    Keith Tickell - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Keith Tickell, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Baptist Health, manages the long-term financial planning and strategic asset management for the organization. Tickell oversees the treasury functions, debt management, and financial risk assessment to ensure the stability of the nonprofit network. The Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer directs the development of financial models that support the expansion of hospital services and outpatient clinics. Keith Tickell collaborates with the executive team to evaluate the financial feasibility of new medical programs and infrastructure projects. This leadership role involves maintaining relationships with financial institutions and regulatory bodies to ensure compliance and fiscal health. By providing strategic financial guidance, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer enables the organization to invest in high-impact medical services, ensuring the continued delivery of quality care across the regional footprint.
    Keith Tickell

    Shelley Neal - Chief Operating Officer, BHMG

    Shelley Neal, the Chief Operating Officer, BHMG at Baptist Health, directs the daily operations of the medical group to ensure efficient service delivery. Neal manages the workflows within the network of clinics and urgent care centers, focusing on patient throughput and staff productivity. The Chief Operating Officer, BHMG oversees the implementation of standardized clinical processes to maintain high quality across all locations. Shelley Neal drives initiatives to improve patient satisfaction and operational performance through effective resource management. This leadership role involves coordinating with clinical directors to align medical group activities with the broader system strategy. By optimizing the operational performance of the medical group, the Chief Operating Officer, BHMG ensures that patients receive timely and effective care. Through rigorous management of daily operations, Neal supports the organization's commitment to accessible and high-quality healthcare.

    Lawrence Montgomery - Chief Marketing Officer

    Lawrence Montgomery, the Chief Marketing Officer at Baptist Health, directs brand strategy and patient engagement initiatives. Montgomery manages the communication channels that connect the organization with the communities it serves across multiple states. The Chief Marketing Officer oversees digital marketing campaigns, public relations, and outreach programs designed to increase awareness of available medical services. Lawrence Montgomery drives the development of patient-facing content, including the organization's mobile app, to enhance accessibility and convenience. This leadership role involves analyzing market data to identify growth opportunities and tailoring messaging to diverse patient demographics. By building a strong, recognizable brand, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures that the organization remains the preferred choice for healthcare. Through strategic communication and community engagement, Montgomery supports the overall mission of expanding access to quality medical care.

    Tricia Julian - Chief Information Officer

    Tricia Julian, the Chief Information Officer at Baptist Health, directs the digital infrastructure and information technology strategy for the entire network. Julian manages the implementation of electronic health records, cybersecurity protocols, and data analytics platforms that support clinical decision-making. The Chief Information Officer oversees the integration of technology across all 300 care facilities to ensure seamless data flow and patient information security. Tricia Julian drives innovation in digital health, including the development of the organization's mobile app and telehealth capabilities. This leadership role involves collaborating with clinical and administrative teams to leverage technology for improved operational efficiency and patient outcomes. By maintaining a secure and scalable IT environment, the Chief Information Officer enables the organization to provide modern, efficient healthcare services. Through continuous technological advancement, Julian supports the digital transformation of the entire system.
    Tricia Julian

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Baptist Health Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Baptist Health?
    Baptist Health is led by Nathaniel Ortiz (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Robert Baal (Foundation Chief Executive Officer) and Michael Zinner (Chief Executive Officer & Executive Medical Director, Cancer Institute & Baptist Health Cancer Care (Miami)).
    Who is part of Baptist Health’s executive team?
    The executive team of Baptist Health includes leaders such as Nathaniel Ortiz (Chief Executive Officer), Robert Baal (Foundation Chief Executive Officer), Michael Zinner (Chief Executive Officer & Executive Medical Director, Cancer Institute & Baptist Health Cancer Care (Miami)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Baptist Health have?
    Baptist Health has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Baptist Health’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Baptist Health includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Executive Medical Director, Cancer Institute & Baptist Health Cancer Care (Miami), President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer, System Baptist Heart & Vascular.