EyeSouth Partners Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

EyeSouth Partners has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, human resources, and clinical division management.

Focused on scaling high-quality medical and surgical eye care, EyeSouth Partners empowers physician partners through administrative resources and capital to ensure a patient-first culture across the entire U.S. network.

Leadership Roles at EyeSouth Partners

  • Chief Executive Officer - Rex Adams
  • Chief Operating Officer - Chris Hardeman
  • President, Anterior and Multispecialty Division - John Friedel
  • President, Posterior Division - Paul Lucas
  • President, Surgical Services - D. Godfrey
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Rebecca Shoniber
  • Rex Adams - Chief Executive Officer

    Rex Adams, the Chief Executive Officer at EyeSouth Partners, directs the overarching strategic vision and growth trajectory for the organization. Adams architects the long-term expansion of the eye care management services network, ensuring alignment between clinical quality and business performance. By collaborating with the Board and private equity partners, the Chief Executive Officer secures the capital necessary to support over 245 doctors across multiple states. Rex Adams monitors the integration of new practices into the affiliate network, maintaining a focus on the patient-first culture that defines the company. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of market opportunities to strengthen the presence of the organization in the U.S. healthcare landscape. Through rigorous oversight of administrative resources and operational expertise, the Chief Executive Officer drives sustainable value for all stakeholders while upholding the highest standards of medical and surgical eye care excellence.
    Rex Adams

    Chris Hardeman - Chief Operating Officer

    Chris Hardeman, the Chief Operating Officer at EyeSouth Partners, manages the daily operational efficiency of the extensive network spanning over 140 locations. Hardeman optimizes administrative workflows and resource allocation to support affiliated practices in Georgia, Texas, and beyond. The Chief Operating Officer implements standardized operating procedures that enhance clinical productivity while maintaining the rigorous quality standards required for surgical eye care. Chris Hardeman coordinates with regional leadership to ensure that every practice receives the necessary support to deliver superior patient outcomes. By streamlining back-office functions and integrating new acquisitions into the operational framework, the Chief Operating Officer facilitates seamless growth across the U.S. footprint. This role requires constant monitoring of performance metrics to identify areas for improvement, ensuring that the organization remains a premier provider of eye care services through disciplined execution and effective management of complex, multi-state clinical operations.
    Chris Hardeman

    John Friedel - President, Anterior and Multispecialty Division

    John Friedel, the President, Anterior and Multispecialty Division at EyeSouth Partners, leads the strategic development and clinical performance of anterior segment and multispecialty eye care services. Friedel directs the expansion of these specific service lines across the national network, ensuring that affiliated practices utilize the latest medical advancements. The President, Anterior and Multispecialty Division coordinates with physician partners to enhance the quality of care provided to patients seeking specialized treatment. John Friedel monitors clinical outcomes and operational efficiency within this division to ensure alignment with the broader organizational goals. By identifying opportunities for service line growth and implementing best practices, the President, Anterior and Multispecialty Division drives revenue and patient satisfaction. This role requires deep industry knowledge to navigate the complexities of multispecialty care delivery. Through consistent engagement with clinical teams, the President, Anterior and Multispecialty Division maintains the high standards of excellence that define the reputation of the organization.

    Paul Lucas - President, Posterior Division

    Paul Lucas, the President, Posterior Division at EyeSouth Partners, oversees the strategic direction and clinical operations for posterior segment eye care services. Lucas manages the growth and performance of these specialized practices, ensuring that physicians have the resources required to deliver high-quality surgical care. The President, Posterior Division architects initiatives to improve patient access and clinical outcomes across the regional network. Paul Lucas collaborates with other C-suite leaders to integrate posterior segment services into the broader organizational strategy, supporting the overall mission of building a premier eye care network. By focusing on operational excellence and clinical innovation, the President, Posterior Division drives the success of these critical service areas. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of market trends and clinical requirements to maintain a competitive edge. Through effective management of specialized medical teams, the President, Posterior Division ensures that the organization continues to provide superior surgical eye care to patients throughout the U.S.

    D. Godfrey - President, Surgical Services

    D. Godfrey, the President, Surgical Services at EyeSouth Partners, manages the infrastructure and operational standards for all surgical procedures performed within the affiliate network. Godfrey directs the implementation of advanced surgical technologies and protocols to ensure patient safety and clinical efficacy. The President, Surgical Services coordinates with surgical centers and physician partners to optimize facility utilization and procedural throughput. D. Godfrey monitors compliance with regulatory requirements and quality benchmarks, ensuring that every surgical location meets the highest standards of care. By streamlining the surgical experience, the President, Surgical Services supports the growth of the organization and enhances the value provided to patients. This role involves close collaboration with clinical leadership to address the evolving needs of surgical practices across the U.S. Through rigorous oversight and strategic planning, the President, Surgical Services maintains the operational integrity of the surgical division, contributing directly to the overall success and reputation of the organization.

    Rebecca Shoniber - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Rebecca Shoniber, the Chief Human Resources Officer at EyeSouth Partners, designs and executes the talent acquisition and retention strategies essential for a network of over 245 doctors. Shoniber cultivates a high-performance culture that prioritizes clinical excellence and patient satisfaction across all affiliate locations. The Chief Human Resources Officer manages organizational development initiatives, ensuring that the workforce remains aligned with the mission of providing top-tier medical and surgical eye care. Rebecca Shoniber oversees the implementation of comprehensive training programs and benefits structures that attract leading physicians to the organization. By fostering a supportive environment, the Chief Human Resources Officer strengthens the internal infrastructure required to scale operations effectively throughout the U.S. This leadership role involves navigating complex human capital challenges to maintain staff engagement and operational stability. Through strategic workforce planning, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the organization possesses the necessary expertise to sustain its position as a leader in eye care management.
    Rebecca Shoniber

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding EyeSouth Partners Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads EyeSouth Partners?
    EyeSouth Partners is led by Rex Adams (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Chris Hardeman (Chief Operating Officer) and John Friedel (President, Anterior and Multispecialty Division).
    Who is part of EyeSouth Partners’s executive team?
    The executive team of EyeSouth Partners includes leaders such as Rex Adams (Chief Executive Officer), Chris Hardeman (Chief Operating Officer), John Friedel (President, Anterior and Multispecialty Division) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does EyeSouth Partners have?
    EyeSouth Partners has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in EyeSouth Partners’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of EyeSouth Partners includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Anterior and Multispecialty Division, President, Posterior Division, President, Surgical Services.