Forefront Dermatology Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Forefront Dermatology has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, operations, medical affairs, and physician leadership.

Driven by a commitment to patient well-being, Forefront Dermatology delivers exceptional dermatological care across the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, enhancing patient quality of life through innovative treatments and a patient-centric philosophy.

Leadership Roles at Forefront Dermatology

  • Chief Executive Officer - Matthew Mellott
  • Chief Operating Officer - Candace Baer
  • Physician, Mohs Surgeon, President and Founder - Kenneth Katz
  • President - Betsy Wernli
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Andrea Kruse
  • Chief Medical Officer, Dermatopathology - Kelli Hutchens
  • Matthew Mellott - Chief Executive Officer

    Matthew Mellott, the Chief Executive Officer at Forefront Dermatology, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational framework. Mellott guides the organization's expansion initiatives throughout the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions, ensuring alignment with the company's mission of providing best-in-class general, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology care. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of excellence among board-certified dermatologists and specialists, driving the integration of innovative solutions to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Mellott's strategic vision focuses on enhancing the network of dermatology practices, optimizing resource allocation, and solidifying Forefront Dermatology's position as a leader in dermatological services. The Chief Executive Officer ensures that all operational decisions support the delivery of the highest standard of care for conditions affecting hair, skin, and nails for patients of all ages.

    Candace Baer - Chief Operating Officer

    Candace Baer, the Chief Operating Officer at Forefront Dermatology, manages the day-to-day operational efficiency and scalability of the organization's extensive network of practices. Baer oversees the implementation of best practices in clinical operations, patient flow, and administrative functions across the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. This leadership position is vital for ensuring seamless service delivery, from general and surgical dermatology to cosmetic procedures and laboratory services. Candace Baer focuses on optimizing resource utilization, enhancing patient experience, and supporting the clinical teams in delivering the highest standard of care. The Chief Operating Officer works closely with other executive leaders to align operational strategies with the company's growth objectives and its commitment to treating the total patient, thereby improving both skin health and overall quality of life.

    Kenneth Katz - Physician, Mohs Surgeon, President and Founder

    Kenneth Katz, the Physician, Mohs Surgeon, President and Founder at Forefront Dermatology, provides critical clinical leadership and strategic direction, particularly in surgical dermatology. Katz's expertise as a Mohs surgeon informs the development and delivery of advanced surgical techniques offered by the practice network throughout the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic. As President and Founder, Kenneth Katz plays a pivotal role in shaping the company's culture and its commitment to providing best-in-class care. This involves ensuring that all dermatologists and specialists adhere to the highest standards for treating conditions of the hair, skin, and nails. Katz's vision emphasizes the integration of innovative solutions and a patient-centric approach, aiming to improve not only the condition of patients' skin but also their overall quality of life through expert medical and surgical interventions.

    Betsy Wernli - President

    Betsy Wernli, the President at Forefront Dermatology, drives strategic initiatives and operational oversight for key segments of the dermatology practice network. Wernli focuses on enhancing the delivery of comprehensive dermatological services, including general, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology, across the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. This leadership position involves fostering strong relationships with physicians and staff, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of patient care, and promoting the company's mission to improve patient quality of life. Betsy Wernli collaborates with executive leadership to identify growth opportunities and implement operational improvements that support the network's commitment to providing innovative and effective treatments for conditions of the hair, skin, and nails. The President ensures that Forefront Dermatology remains at the forefront of patient-centered dermatological care.
    Betsy Wernli

    Andrea Kruse - Chief Marketing Officer

    Andrea Kruse, the Chief Marketing Officer at Forefront Dermatology, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to elevate brand visibility and patient engagement. Kruse oversees all promotional activities, digital marketing campaigns, and public relations efforts, ensuring consistent messaging across the network of practices located throughout the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic. This role is critical in communicating the value of Forefront Dermatology's services, which include general, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology, as well as related laboratory services. Andrea Kruse focuses on identifying new market opportunities and developing targeted outreach programs that resonate with diverse patient demographics. The Chief Marketing Officer drives initiatives to attract new patients and retain existing ones by highlighting the expertise of board-certified dermatologists and specialists and their dedication to improving patient quality of life through advanced dermatological care.

    Kelli Hutchens - Chief Medical Officer, Dermatopathology

    Kelli Hutchens, the Chief Medical Officer, Dermatopathology at Forefront Dermatology, leads the clinical quality initiatives and oversees dermatopathology services across the organization. Hutchens ensures the highest standards of diagnostic accuracy and clinical excellence for patients throughout the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic. This critical role involves guiding the medical teams in the precise diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of skin conditions, leveraging expertise in dermatopathology to inform patient care strategies. Kelli Hutchens champions the integration of cutting-edge diagnostic tools and treatment protocols, reinforcing Forefront Dermatology's commitment to providing best-in-class general, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. The Chief Medical Officer, Dermatopathology focuses on enhancing patient outcomes by ensuring that all medical practices are evidence-based and patient-centered, ultimately improving skin health and quality of life.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Forefront Dermatology Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Forefront Dermatology?
    Forefront Dermatology is led by Matthew Mellott (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Candace Baer (Chief Operating Officer) and Kenneth Katz (Physician, Mohs Surgeon, President and Founder).
    Who is part of Forefront Dermatology’s executive team?
    The executive team of Forefront Dermatology includes leaders such as Matthew Mellott (Chief Executive Officer), Candace Baer (Chief Operating Officer), Kenneth Katz (Physician, Mohs Surgeon, President and Founder) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Forefront Dermatology have?
    Forefront Dermatology has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Forefront Dermatology’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Forefront Dermatology includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Physician, Mohs Surgeon, President and Founder, President, Chief Marketing Officer.