Benefis Health System Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Benefis Health System has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, clinical administration, human resources, technology, marketing, and medical oversight.

Committed to advancing regional medical excellence, Benefis Health System delivers comprehensive cancer treatment, emergency services, and specialized vascular care to improve patient outcomes across Montana.

Leadership Roles at Benefis Health System

  • Chief Executive Officer - John Goodnow
  • Chief Operating Officer - Amy Linder
  • Senior Chief Operating Officer, Services - David Krebs
  • Chief Operating Officer, Community Care - Brad Garpestad
  • Chief of Staff - Peter Burli
  • Senior VP, System & Chief Human Resources Officer - Casey Buckingham
  • Vice President and System Chief Information Officer - Vickie Nelson
  • Chief Marketing Officer, Cmio - Paul Dolan
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Kathie Avis
  • Chief Medical Officer - Gregory Md
  • John Goodnow - Chief Executive Officer

    John Goodnow, the Chief Executive Officer at Benefis Health System, directs the overarching strategic vision for this expansive medical provider. By aligning clinical goals with long-term financial sustainability, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the organization maintains high standards in cancer treatment and emergency services. John Goodnow monitors regional market trends to identify opportunities for expanding telemedicine and specialized vascular care. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine the mission of delivering accessible healthcare across Montana. Through rigorous oversight of all departments, the Chief Executive Officer drives operational efficiency and fosters a culture of patient-centered innovation. By prioritizing resource allocation, the executive secures the necessary infrastructure to support complex medical services. Ultimately, Goodnow maintains the reputation of the system as a premier provider of medical care services within the competitive healthcare landscape.

    Amy Linder - Chief Operating Officer

    Amy Linder, the Chief Operating Officer at Benefis Health System, manages the daily execution of clinical and administrative workflows. Overseeing the integration of orthopedics and women's and children's services, the Chief Operating Officer ensures seamless patient transitions throughout the facility. Amy Linder optimizes internal processes to reduce wait times and improve the quality of care delivered in emergency departments. This role requires constant coordination with department heads to maintain operational excellence across all medical service lines. By implementing data-driven management strategies, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the efficiency of hospital operations. Linder monitors performance metrics to ensure alignment with the broader organizational mission of providing high-quality medical care. Through the management of complex logistical challenges, the executive supports the delivery of consistent, reliable health services. Ultimately, Linder strengthens the operational foundation required for sustained growth and superior patient satisfaction.

    David Krebs - Senior Chief Operating Officer, Services

    David Krebs, the Senior Chief Operating Officer, Services at Benefis Health System, manages the delivery of specialized medical service lines, including heart and vascular care. Overseeing the operational performance of these high-acuity departments, the Senior Chief Operating Officer, Services ensures that clinical teams have the resources required for complex procedures. David Krebs optimizes the utilization of medical equipment and facilities to maximize patient throughput and care quality. This role involves coordinating with medical directors to refine service protocols and improve clinical outcomes. By focusing on the operational efficiency of specialized units, the executive supports the overall mission of the health system. Krebs monitors service-specific metrics to identify areas for improvement and expansion. Through the management of complex service delivery models, the executive ensures that patients receive timely and effective care. Ultimately, Krebs drives the operational success of the most critical medical service lines within the organization.

    Brad Garpestad - Chief Operating Officer, Community Care

    Brad Garpestad, the Chief Operating Officer, Community Care at Benefis Health System, directs the expansion and management of outpatient and home-based medical services. Overseeing the delivery of home visits and community-focused health programs, the Chief Operating Officer, Community Care ensures that patients receive high-quality care outside of the traditional hospital setting. Brad Garpestad architects strategies to increase access to medical services for diverse populations across the region. This role involves coordinating with local health partners to integrate community care into the broader system network. By focusing on preventative care and post-acute services, the executive reduces hospital readmission rates and improves long-term patient health. Garpestad monitors the performance of community-based clinics to ensure consistent service delivery. Through the management of these vital outreach programs, the executive extends the reach of the health system. Ultimately, Garpestad strengthens the connection between the organization and the communities served.
    Brad Garpestad

    Peter Burli - Chief of Staff

    Peter Burli, the Chief of Staff at Benefis Health System, coordinates executive communications and facilitates strategic alignment across the leadership team. By managing the flow of information between the C-suite and clinical departments, the Chief of Staff ensures that organizational priorities remain focused on patient care. Peter Burli oversees the implementation of high-level initiatives, including the expansion of telemedicine capabilities and home visit programs. This role involves mediating complex administrative issues to maintain organizational stability and focus. By streamlining decision-making processes, the Chief of Staff enables the leadership team to respond rapidly to evolving healthcare demands. Burli monitors the progress of key projects to ensure adherence to the mission of Benefis Health System. Through the facilitation of cross-departmental collaboration, the executive drives the execution of corporate strategy. Ultimately, Burli maintains the internal cohesion necessary for the system to deliver effective medical services.

    Casey Buckingham - Senior VP, System & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Casey Buckingham, the Senior VP, System & Chief Human Resources Officer at Benefis Health System, architects the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies essential for high-quality medical care. Overseeing the recruitment of specialized medical staff, the Senior VP, System & Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the organization maintains a robust clinical workforce. Casey Buckingham designs programs to foster employee engagement and retention, which directly impacts the quality of patient services. This leadership role involves aligning human capital strategies with the broader goals of the health system, including the expansion of orthopedics and vascular care. By cultivating a culture of excellence, the executive supports the professional growth of the entire medical team. Buckingham monitors workforce trends to anticipate staffing needs in a competitive healthcare market. Through the implementation of comprehensive training initiatives, the executive ensures that all staff members uphold the standards of the organization. Ultimately, Buckingham secures the human resources necessary for operational success.

    Vickie Nelson - Vice President and System Chief Information Officer

    Vickie Nelson, the Vice President and System Chief Information Officer at Benefis Health System, directs the digital transformation and technological infrastructure of the organization. Overseeing the implementation of advanced electronic health records and telemedicine platforms, the Vice President and System Chief Information Officer ensures secure and efficient data management. Vickie Nelson architects scalable IT solutions that support the delivery of cancer treatment and specialized vascular services. This role involves collaborating with clinical leaders to integrate technology into daily patient care workflows. By prioritizing cybersecurity and system reliability, the executive protects sensitive patient information while maintaining operational continuity. Nelson monitors emerging digital health trends to keep the system at the forefront of medical innovation. Through the optimization of information systems, the executive drives improvements in clinical decision-making and patient outcomes. Ultimately, Nelson provides the technological backbone required for the modern delivery of medical care services.

    Paul Dolan - Chief Marketing Officer, Cmio

    Paul Dolan, the Chief Marketing Officer, Cmio at Benefis Health System, leads the strategic communication and brand positioning efforts for the organization. Overseeing the promotion of specialized services like cancer treatment and orthopedics, the Chief Marketing Officer, Cmio ensures that the community understands the full scope of available medical care. Paul Dolan architects campaigns that highlight the expertise of the clinical staff and the advanced technology utilized by the system. This role involves analyzing market data to identify opportunities for growth and patient acquisition. By aligning marketing initiatives with clinical priorities, the executive drives awareness and trust in the brand. Dolan monitors the effectiveness of communication channels to optimize outreach strategies. Through the management of public relations and digital presence, the executive supports the overall mission of the health system. Ultimately, Dolan enhances the market position of the organization as a leader in regional healthcare.

    Kathie Avis - Chief Administrative Officer

    Kathie Avis, the Chief Administrative Officer at Benefis Health System, manages the internal administrative functions that support the delivery of medical care. Overseeing facilities management, supply chain logistics, and administrative support services, the Chief Administrative Officer ensures that the hospital environment remains conducive to patient safety and clinical efficiency. Kathie Avis architects policies that streamline administrative workflows and reduce operational overhead. This role involves collaborating with other C-suite leaders to ensure that administrative support aligns with clinical and strategic goals. By optimizing the use of physical and material resources, the executive supports the daily operations of the entire health system. Avis monitors administrative performance metrics to identify opportunities for process improvement. Through the management of essential support services, the executive enables clinical teams to focus on patient care. Ultimately, Avis provides the administrative stability necessary for the organization to function effectively.

    Gregory Md - Chief Medical Officer

    Gregory Md, the Chief Medical Officer at Benefis Health System, directs the clinical quality and medical standards across all service lines. Overseeing the performance of physicians and clinical staff, the Chief Medical Officer ensures that patient care adheres to the highest evidence-based practices. Gregory Md architects clinical protocols for cancer treatment, orthopedics, and vascular services to improve patient outcomes. This role involves leading peer review processes and ensuring compliance with medical regulations. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and clinical excellence, the executive supports the professional development of the medical staff. Md monitors clinical quality metrics to identify areas for improvement and innovation. Through the management of medical affairs, the executive ensures that the system remains a trusted provider of medical care services. Ultimately, Md drives the clinical strategy that defines the quality of care delivered to every patient.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Benefis Health System Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Benefis Health System?
    Benefis Health System is led by John Goodnow (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Amy Linder (Chief Operating Officer) and David Krebs (Senior Chief Operating Officer, Services).
    Who is part of Benefis Health System’s executive team?
    The executive team of Benefis Health System includes leaders such as John Goodnow (Chief Executive Officer), Amy Linder (Chief Operating Officer), David Krebs (Senior Chief Operating Officer, Services) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Benefis Health System have?
    Benefis Health System has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Benefis Health System’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Benefis Health System includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Senior Chief Operating Officer, Services, Chief Operating Officer, Community Care, Chief of Staff.