CalOptima Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

CalOptima has 5 executives leading key functions including information technology, finance, operations, strategy, and medical affairs.

Driven by a commitment to community well-being, CalOptima operates as a public agency and County Organized Health System, dedicated to enhancing healthcare access and quality for vulnerable populations across Orange County.

Leadership Roles at CalOptima

  • Chief Financial Officer - Nancy Huang
  • Chief Operating Officer - Yunkyung Kim
  • Stategy Public Affairs Chief & Interim Chief Operating Officer - Michael Ruane
  • Chief Information Officer - Kathleen Linder
  • Deputy Chief Medical Officer - Zeinab Dabbah
  • Nancy Huang - Chief Financial Officer

    Nancy Huang, the Chief Financial Officer at CalOptima, manages the comprehensive financial strategy and fiscal operations of the organization. This executive oversees all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and reporting, ensuring the fiscal integrity of the public agency. Huang's responsibilities include optimizing financial performance to support CalOptima's commitment to providing health insurance programs for low-income individuals, seniors, and people with disabilities. By implementing sound financial controls and driving fiscal discipline, Nancy Huang safeguards the agency's resources and enhances its capacity to serve the community effectively. The Chief Financial Officer's strategic financial guidance is essential for maintaining operational stability and enabling future growth initiatives.
    Nancy Huang

    Yunkyung Kim - Chief Operating Officer

    Yunkyung Kim, the Chief Operating Officer at CalOptima, directs the day-to-day operational activities and service delivery across the organization. This executive is responsible for ensuring the efficient and effective execution of CalOptima's health insurance programs, supporting its mission to serve low-income children, adults, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Kim's leadership focuses on streamlining operational processes, enhancing member support services, and driving operational excellence throughout the agency. By overseeing critical operational functions, Yunkyung Kim ensures that CalOptima consistently meets the needs of its members and community. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic oversight is vital for maintaining high standards of service and operational integrity.
    Yunkyung Kim

    Michael Ruane - Stategy Public Affairs Chief & Interim Chief Operating Officer

    Michael Ruane, the Stategy Public Affairs Chief & Interim Chief Operating Officer at CalOptima, spearheads strategic initiatives and public affairs, while also providing interim leadership for operational functions. This dual role involves shaping CalOptima's strategic direction and managing its public image, alongside overseeing key operational aspects to ensure program continuity and effectiveness. Ruane's responsibilities encompass developing and executing strategies that align with the agency's mission to improve health outcomes for its members. By bridging strategic planning with interim operational oversight, Michael Ruane ensures that CalOptima remains responsive to community needs and public policy changes. The combined focus on strategy, public affairs, and interim operations drives the organization's mission forward.

    Kathleen Linder - Chief Information Officer

    Kathleen Linder, the Chief Information Officer at CalOptima, directs the strategic vision and execution of all information technology initiatives. Overseeing the development and maintenance of robust digital infrastructure, Linder ensures seamless data management and system security, critical for serving a diverse member base. This leadership role involves architecting scalable technology solutions that support CalOptima's mission of providing accessible health insurance programs. By optimizing IT operations, Kathleen Linder enhances the efficiency of member services and administrative functions, directly contributing to the agency's ability to adapt to evolving healthcare landscapes. The Chief Information Officer's focus remains on leveraging technology to improve operational effectiveness and member experience across all programs.
    Kathleen Linder

    Zeinab Dabbah - Deputy Chief Medical Officer

    Zeinab Dabbah, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer at CalOptima, supports the strategic direction and oversight of medical affairs and clinical quality initiatives. This executive plays a crucial role in ensuring that CalOptima's health insurance programs meet the highest standards of care for its diverse member population, including children, adults, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Dabbah's focus involves collaborating with healthcare providers and internal teams to enhance member health outcomes and promote effective healthcare delivery. By contributing to clinical strategy and quality improvement, Zeinab Dabbah directly supports CalOptima's mission to provide better healthcare together. The Deputy Chief Medical Officer's expertise is vital for navigating the complexities of public health insurance and member well-being.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Government

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding CalOptima Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads CalOptima?
    CalOptima is led by Nancy Huang (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Yunkyung Kim (Chief Operating Officer) and Michael Ruane (Stategy Public Affairs Chief & Interim Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of CalOptima’s executive team?
    The executive team of CalOptima includes leaders such as Nancy Huang (Chief Financial Officer), Yunkyung Kim (Chief Operating Officer), Michael Ruane (Stategy Public Affairs Chief & Interim Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does CalOptima have?
    CalOptima has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in CalOptima’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of CalOptima includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Stategy Public Affairs Chief & Interim Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer, Deputy Chief Medical Officer.