Health First Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Health First has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, human resources, medical operations, and divisional leadership.

Driven by a commitment to patient well-being, Health First focuses on delivering comprehensive hospital services, including intensive care, rehabilitation, and emergency care, impacting the Florida healthcare landscape.

Leadership Roles at Health First

  • Chief Executive Officer - Youssef Abdelrahman
  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Lovely Merdelus
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Kristen Pulio
  • Chief Financial Officer, Community Health Services - Jeffrey Smith
  • President, Hospital Division - Michael Mullowney
  • President - Jamie Forrest
  • President, Community Health Services - Andrew Fink
  • President, The Medical Staff - Fuad Ramadan
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Paula Just
  • Chief Medical Officer - Richard Baney
  • Youssef Abdelrahman - Chief Executive Officer

    Youssef Abdelrahman, the Chief Executive Officer at Health First, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the organization. Abdelrahman guides the company's mission to provide essential hospital services, including intensive care, rehabilitation, and emergency care, across its Florida-based facilities. This leadership role involves aligning departmental objectives with the company's commitment to patient well-being and market leadership in healthcare provision. Abdelrahman ensures that all divisions operate cohesively to meet the evolving needs of the communities served. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on driving sustainable growth and enhancing the quality of care delivered. By fostering a culture of excellence, Youssef Abdelrahman solidifies Health First's position as a premier healthcare provider.

    Lovely Merdelus - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Lovely Merdelus, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Health First, establishes the foundational principles and long-term direction for the organization. Merdelus champions the company's core mission of delivering critical hospital services, encompassing intensive care, rehabilitation, and emergency services, to the Florida region. This executive position involves setting the strategic agenda and fostering an environment that prioritizes patient outcomes and community health. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer oversees the integration of innovative healthcare practices and ensures adherence to the highest standards of medical care. Merdelus's leadership drives the company's expansion and commitment to excellence in healthcare delivery. Through strategic oversight, Lovely Merdelus continues to shape Health First's impact on patient well-being.

    Kristen Pulio - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Kristen Pulio, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Health First, manages the comprehensive financial operations and fiscal strategy for the organization. Pulio oversees all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation, ensuring the company's stability and capacity to deliver essential hospital services like intensive care, rehabilitation, and emergency care. This critical role involves optimizing financial performance and supporting strategic initiatives that enhance patient care and operational efficiency across Florida. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer works closely with divisional leaders to maintain fiscal discipline and identify opportunities for investment in healthcare advancements. Pulio's expertise ensures Health First can sustain its commitment to community health. Through meticulous financial oversight, Kristen Pulio safeguards the organization's long-term viability and growth.
    Kristen Pulio

    Jeffrey Smith - Chief Financial Officer, Community Health Services

    Jeffrey Smith, the Chief Financial Officer, Community Health Services at Health First, spearheads the financial management and strategic planning for the Community Health Services division. Smith ensures the fiscal health and operational efficiency of programs focused on broader community well-being, complementing the core hospital services. This role involves meticulous budget oversight, financial analysis, and the implementation of cost-effective strategies to maximize the impact of healthcare initiatives. The Chief Financial Officer, Community Health Services collaborates with divisional leadership to secure funding and manage resources effectively, supporting Health First's mission. Smith's financial acumen is vital for expanding access to care and enhancing patient services. Jeffrey Smith's leadership drives financial sustainability for critical community health programs.

    Michael Mullowney - President, Hospital Division

    Michael Mullowney, the President, Hospital Division at Health First, directs the operational management and strategic growth of the company's hospital facilities. Mullowney oversees the delivery of comprehensive care, including intensive care, rehabilitation, and emergency services, ensuring seamless operations and high-quality patient experiences. This leadership position involves managing hospital resources, optimizing departmental functions, and fostering a culture of clinical excellence. The President, Hospital Division works closely with the Chief Medical Officer and other executives to align hospital services with the broader organizational mission. Mullowney's strategic oversight is crucial for maintaining Health First's market presence in Florida. Michael Mullowney drives operational efficiency and patient satisfaction within the hospital division.
    Michael Mullowney

    Jamie Forrest - President

    Jamie Forrest, the President at Health First, holds a key leadership position responsible for driving strategic initiatives and operational excellence across designated areas of the organization. Forrest focuses on enhancing the delivery of critical hospital services, including intensive care, rehabilitation, and emergency care, ensuring alignment with Health First's core mission. This executive role involves overseeing cross-functional teams and implementing programs that improve patient outcomes and operational efficiency. The President collaborates with other senior leaders to advance the company's goals and expand its reach within the healthcare sector. Forrest's leadership contributes significantly to Health First's commitment to community well-being. Jamie Forrest's strategic direction supports the organization's continued success.
    Jamie Forrest

    Andrew Fink - President, Community Health Services

    Andrew Fink, the President, Community Health Services at Health First, leads the strategic development and operational execution of programs focused on community health and wellness. Fink ensures that these services complement the hospital's offerings, providing accessible and comprehensive care beyond acute treatment. This role involves managing the integration of preventative care, outreach programs, and patient support services to enhance overall community well-being across Florida. The President, Community Health Services collaborates with divisional leaders to expand the impact of Health First's mission. Fink's leadership is instrumental in fostering partnerships and initiatives that promote healthier communities. Andrew Fink drives the expansion and effectiveness of Health First's community-focused healthcare.
    Andrew Fink

    Fuad Ramadan - President, The Medical Staff

    Fuad Ramadan, the President, The Medical Staff at Health First, provides essential leadership and advocacy for the physicians and medical professionals within the organization. Ramadan ensures that clinical practices align with Health First's commitment to delivering exceptional hospital services, including intensive care, rehabilitation, and emergency care. This vital role involves fostering collaboration between medical staff and administrative leadership to enhance patient care quality and safety. The President, The Medical Staff champions initiatives that support physician development and operational efficiency within clinical settings. Ramadan's influence is critical in maintaining high standards of medical practice across Health First's facilities. Fuad Ramadan's dedication strengthens the clinical foundation of the organization.
    Fuad Ramadan

    Paula Just - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Paula Just, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Health First, directs all human capital strategies and employee relations initiatives. Just is responsible for cultivating a robust organizational culture that supports the delivery of high-quality hospital services, including intensive care, rehabilitation, and emergency services. This leadership position involves overseeing talent acquisition, development, and retention programs to ensure Health First has a skilled and dedicated workforce. The Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates with executive leadership to align HR policies with the company's strategic goals and commitment to patient well-being. Just ensures compliance with labor laws and promotes a positive and productive work environment across all Florida operations. Paula Just's dedication to employee success underpins Health First's operational strength.
    Paula Just

    Richard Baney - Chief Medical Officer

    Richard Baney, the Chief Medical Officer at Health First, provides critical medical leadership and oversees clinical operations across the organization. Baney ensures the highest standards of patient care are maintained in all hospital services, including intensive care, rehabilitation, and emergency services, aligning clinical practices with Health First's mission. This executive role involves guiding medical staff, implementing evidence-based treatment protocols, and driving clinical quality improvements. The Chief Medical Officer collaborates with administrative leaders to integrate medical expertise into strategic decision-making and operational planning. Baney's focus is on enhancing patient outcomes and safety throughout Florida. Richard Baney's medical guidance is fundamental to Health First's reputation for excellence in healthcare.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Health First Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Health First?
    Health First is led by Youssef Abdelrahman (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Lovely Merdelus (Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and Kristen Pulio (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Health First’s executive team?
    The executive team of Health First includes leaders such as Youssef Abdelrahman (Chief Executive Officer), Lovely Merdelus (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Kristen Pulio (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Health First have?
    Health First has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Health First’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Health First includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Community Health Services, President, Hospital Division.