Leadership Overview
Forefront Dermatology has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, operations, administrative oversight, human resources, clinical surgery, organizational leadership, and dermatopathology.
Committed to advancing skin health across the Midwest and Midatlantic, Forefront Dermatology delivers comprehensive dermatological care through a network of board-certified specialists focused on improving patient quality of life.
Committed to advancing skin health across the Midwest and Midatlantic, Forefront Dermatology delivers comprehensive dermatological care through a network of board-certified specialists focused on improving patient quality of life.
Leadership Roles at Forefront Dermatology
Matt Mellott - Chief Executive Officer
Matt Mellott, the Chief Executive Officer at Forefront Dermatology, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire network of community-based practices. By aligning clinical excellence with operational efficiency, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that board-certified dermatologists maintain the highest standards of care for hair, skin, and nail conditions. Mellott architects long-term growth initiatives across the Midwest and Midatlantic regions, focusing on expanding access to specialized dermatological services. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the board to refine the organizational mission and improve patient outcomes. Through rigorous oversight of corporate resources, the Chief Executive Officer drives the integration of innovative medical solutions into daily practice. Matt Mellott maintains a focus on scaling the network while preserving the personalized, community-focused approach that defines the organization. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer secures the financial and operational health of the entire enterprise.
Candace Baer - Chief Operating Officer
Candace Baer, the Chief Operating Officer at Forefront Dermatology, executes the daily operational workflows that support the network of dermatology clinics. By streamlining administrative processes and laboratory services, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that medical specialists focus entirely on patient care. Baer manages the logistical infrastructure required to maintain high-quality service delivery across the Midwest and Midatlantic regions. This leadership role involves optimizing clinic efficiency and resource allocation to support the total patient treatment model. Candace Baer drives the implementation of standardized protocols that enhance the quality of life for patients seeking dermatological solutions. Through constant monitoring of operational metrics, the Chief Operating Officer identifies opportunities for process improvement and scalability. Baer coordinates with other C-suite leaders to align operational capacity with the strategic goals of the organization, ensuring that every practice functions at peak performance levels.
Megan Hagglund - Chief of Staff & President, Office of
Megan Hagglund, the Chief of Staff & President, Office of at Forefront Dermatology, coordinates executive functions and facilitates communication across the leadership team. By managing the administrative office, the Chief of Staff & President, Office of ensures that strategic priorities receive the necessary attention and resources. Hagglund oversees the alignment of internal projects with the broader mission of providing best-in-class dermatological care. This role involves bridging the gap between executive decision-making and clinical execution to maintain organizational cohesion. Megan Hagglund drives the efficiency of the leadership office by streamlining workflows and managing high-level initiatives. Through careful planning and execution, the Chief of Staff & President, Office of supports the expansion of the network across the Midwest and Midatlantic. Hagglund ensures that the executive team remains focused on the core objective of improving patient outcomes through innovative and proven dermatological solutions.
Kenneth Katz - Physician, Mohs Surgeon, President and Founder
Kenneth Katz, the Physician, Mohs Surgeon, President and Founder at Forefront Dermatology, provides the clinical foundation and visionary leadership for the organization. By performing complex Mohs surgery, the Physician, Mohs Surgeon, President and Founder maintains a direct connection to the high standard of care provided to patients. Katz architects the clinical philosophy that guides the network of board-certified dermatologists in treating the total patient. This role involves mentoring medical specialists and ensuring that the organization remains committed to innovative, proven dermatological solutions. Kenneth Katz drives the expansion of the network by upholding the values established at the inception of the practice. Through clinical expertise and leadership, the Physician, Mohs Surgeon, President and Founder ensures that the organization continues to improve the quality of life for patients across the Midwest and Midatlantic. Katz remains a central figure in defining the clinical excellence that characterizes the entire network.
Betsy Wernli - President
Betsy Wernli, the President at Forefront Dermatology, oversees the execution of corporate strategy and the management of regional practice operations. By leading the organization through periods of growth, the President ensures that the network maintains its commitment to community-based, caring dermatological care. Wernli coordinates with clinical and administrative leaders to optimize the delivery of general, surgical, and cosmetic services. This role involves driving the expansion of the network across the Midwest and Midatlantic while ensuring consistent quality standards. Betsy Wernli manages the integration of new practices into the existing framework, focusing on operational synergy and patient-centered outcomes. Through strategic oversight, the President supports the development of innovative solutions for hair, skin, and nail conditions. Wernli ensures that the organization remains responsive to the needs of patients at all stages of life, maintaining the reputation of the network as a leader in dermatology.

Andrea Kruse - Chief Marketing Officer
Andrea Kruse, the Chief Marketing Officer at Forefront Dermatology, manages the brand identity and patient engagement strategies across all regional markets. By developing targeted outreach programs, the Chief Marketing Officer increases awareness of the comprehensive surgical and cosmetic services available within the network. Kruse oversees the digital and traditional communication channels that connect patients with board-certified specialists. This role requires close coordination with clinical leadership to ensure that marketing messaging accurately reflects the high standard of care provided to patients of all ages. Andrea Kruse drives the growth of the patient base by highlighting the unique value proposition of community-based dermatology practices. Through data-driven analysis of market trends, the Chief Marketing Officer optimizes outreach efforts to maximize impact in the Midatlantic and Midwest. Kruse ensures that the brand remains synonymous with quality, trust, and accessibility in the competitive dermatology landscape.
Jill Patterson - Chief People Officer
Jill Patterson, the Chief People Officer at Forefront Dermatology, directs the human resources strategy and talent management initiatives for the entire organization. By fostering a culture of excellence, the Chief People Officer attracts and retains top-tier board-certified dermatologists and medical specialists. Patterson oversees the professional development programs that ensure staff members remain at the forefront of dermatological advancements. This leadership role involves creating an environment where clinical and administrative teams thrive while delivering exceptional care to patients. Jill Patterson drives the implementation of policies that support employee engagement and organizational health across the Midwest and Midatlantic. Through strategic workforce planning, the Chief People Officer ensures that the network possesses the necessary talent to meet the growing demand for skin, hair, and nail care. Patterson aligns human capital strategies with the overall business model to support long-term growth and patient satisfaction.
Kelli Hutchens - Chief Medical Officer, Dermatopathology
Kelli Hutchens, the Chief Medical Officer, Dermatopathology at Forefront Dermatology, directs the laboratory services and clinical diagnostic standards for the network. By overseeing the dermatopathology department, the Chief Medical Officer, Dermatopathology ensures that every biopsy and diagnostic test meets the highest level of accuracy and precision. Hutchens manages the integration of laboratory findings into the broader patient treatment plan, supporting the work of board-certified dermatologists across the Midwest and Midatlantic. This role involves establishing rigorous quality control protocols that enhance the diagnostic capabilities of the organization. Kelli Hutchens drives the adoption of advanced pathology techniques to improve the speed and reliability of patient results. Through collaboration with clinical leadership, the Chief Medical Officer, Dermatopathology ensures that diagnostic excellence remains a cornerstone of the patient care model. Hutchens supports the overall mission by providing the critical data necessary for effective treatment of skin conditions.
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