HopeHealth Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

HopeHealth has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, growth, information technology, operations, finance, human resources, and clinical medicine.

Committed to expanding access to integrated care, HopeHealth delivers comprehensive medical services to over 50,000 patients across South Carolina while maintaining a mission of community-focused health equity.

Leadership Roles at HopeHealth

  • Chief Executive Officer - Charles Humphries
  • Strategy Growth Chief & Officer & Chief Executive Officer, Hopehealth, Inc & , Hopehealth Foundation - Derrick Brown
  • Chief Financial Officer - Jean Dawson
  • Chief Operating Officer - Melissa Haines
  • Chief Information Officer - Chris Guilmette
  • Chief of Staff - Sallie King
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Deena Hilton
  • Chief Medical Officer - Edward Behling
  • Charles Humphries - Chief Executive Officer

    Charles Humphries, the Chief Executive Officer at HopeHealth, directs the overarching vision for integrated health services across South Carolina. Humphries manages the expansion of primary, pediatric, and specialty care programs to ensure the organization meets the needs of 50,000 patients. By aligning clinical goals with community health requirements, the Chief Executive Officer drives the long-term sustainability of the Federally Qualified Health Center model. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine service delivery in rural counties. Through the oversight of diverse medical departments, Charles Humphries secures the resources necessary for high-quality patient outcomes. The Chief Executive Officer maintains a focus on operational excellence, ensuring that the organization remains a cornerstone of regional health support. By prioritizing patient-centered care, the executive fosters a culture of innovation and accessibility throughout the entire network.

    Derrick Brown - Strategy Growth Chief & Officer & Chief Executive Officer, Hopehealth, Inc & , Hopehealth Foundation

    Derrick Brown, the Strategy Growth Chief & Officer & Chief Executive Officer, Hopehealth, Inc & , Hopehealth Foundation at HopeHealth, architects the expansion of service lines and foundation initiatives. Brown identifies new market opportunities to increase the reach of primary and specialty care across the South Carolina region. By analyzing patient demographics and health trends, the Strategy Growth Chief & Officer & Chief Executive Officer, Hopehealth, Inc & , Hopehealth Foundation ensures that the organization scales effectively to meet rising demand. This role involves securing philanthropic partnerships to bolster the foundation's impact on community health. Derrick Brown coordinates with executive leadership to integrate new service offerings into the existing care model. Through strategic planning, the executive enhances the financial and operational footprint of the organization. The Strategy Growth Chief & Officer & Chief Executive Officer, Hopehealth, Inc & , Hopehealth Foundation drives sustainable growth by aligning organizational capabilities with the evolving needs of the patient population.

    Jean Dawson - Chief Financial Officer

    Jean Dawson, the Chief Financial Officer at HopeHealth, directs the fiscal strategy and financial health of the organization. Dawson manages the budgeting, revenue cycle, and resource allocation for all primary and specialty care services. By monitoring financial performance across the South Carolina counties, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the long-term viability of the Federally Qualified Health Center. This leadership role involves overseeing grant management and financial reporting to maintain compliance with federal standards. Jean Dawson collaborates with other executives to fund new service lines and infrastructure improvements. Through the optimization of financial processes, the executive supports the delivery of affordable care to 50,000 patients. The Chief Financial Officer drives fiscal responsibility by implementing cost-effective measures without compromising the quality of medical services. By balancing financial growth with the mission of community health, the executive secures the resources necessary for the organization to thrive.

    Melissa Haines - Chief Operating Officer

    Melissa Haines, the Chief Operating Officer at HopeHealth, directs the daily operations of the health centers to ensure seamless service delivery. Haines manages the logistics of patient flow, facility maintenance, and supply chain operations across all regional locations. By optimizing clinical workflows, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that primary, dental, and behavioral health services function efficiently. This leadership role involves standardizing operational procedures to maintain high quality across the entire network. Melissa Haines oversees the integration of new providers into the existing care model to meet patient demand. Through the management of facility resources, the executive supports the expansion of services into underserved areas. The Chief Operating Officer drives operational excellence by identifying bottlenecks and implementing solutions that improve the patient experience. By focusing on the practical execution of health services, the executive ensures that the organization meets its commitment to accessible, high-quality care for the community.

    Chris Guilmette - Chief Information Officer

    Chris Guilmette, the Chief Information Officer at HopeHealth, directs the digital infrastructure supporting integrated health services. Guilmette manages the implementation of electronic health records and secure data systems to improve patient care coordination across all counties. By optimizing technology platforms, the Chief Information Officer ensures that providers access critical medical information efficiently. This leadership role involves protecting sensitive patient data through robust cybersecurity protocols and compliance measures. Chris Guilmette oversees the integration of telehealth capabilities to expand access for patients in remote areas. Through the modernization of internal systems, the executive supports the operational efficiency of the entire health center network. The Chief Information Officer drives digital transformation initiatives that allow for seamless communication between primary care, dental, and behavioral health departments. By leveraging data analytics, the executive provides actionable insights that improve clinical decision-making and overall patient health outcomes.

    Sallie King - Chief of Staff

    Sallie King, the Chief of Staff at HopeHealth, directs the administrative alignment of executive functions and organizational priorities. King manages the flow of communication between the leadership team and the broader staff to ensure operational cohesion. By facilitating high-level meetings and tracking strategic initiatives, the Chief of Staff supports the execution of the company mission. This role involves coordinating cross-departmental projects that impact primary care and specialty services. Sallie King oversees the implementation of internal policies that streamline decision-making processes. Through the management of executive workflows, the executive ensures that the organization remains focused on its core objectives. The Chief of Staff drives organizational efficiency by resolving complex operational challenges and fostering collaboration among department heads. By maintaining a clear view of the company landscape, the executive enables the leadership team to respond effectively to the healthcare needs of the South Carolina patient population.

    Deena Hilton - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Deena Hilton, the Chief Human Resources Officer at HopeHealth, directs the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies for the organization. Hilton manages the recruitment of over 100 providers and support staff to ensure adequate coverage for primary, dental, and specialty care. By fostering a positive organizational culture, the Chief Human Resources Officer drives employee retention and professional growth. This leadership role involves overseeing benefits administration, performance management, and compliance with labor regulations. Deena Hilton coordinates with department heads to align staffing levels with the operational needs of the health centers. Through the implementation of training programs, the executive ensures that the workforce remains skilled in delivering patient-centered care. The Chief Human Resources Officer drives initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion within the medical team. By prioritizing the well-being of the staff, the executive supports the overall mission of providing high-quality health services to the South Carolina community.

    Edward Behling - Chief Medical Officer

    Edward Behling, the Chief Medical Officer at HopeHealth, directs the clinical standards and quality of care across all medical departments. Behling manages the performance of over 100 providers, ensuring that primary care, rheumatology, endocrinology, and psychiatry services meet rigorous health benchmarks. By establishing evidence-based protocols, the Chief Medical Officer drives improvements in patient outcomes and safety. This leadership role involves overseeing the clinical governance of the health center to maintain its status as a Federally Qualified Health Center. Edward Behling collaborates with the executive team to integrate new medical technologies and treatment modalities. Through the supervision of clinical staff, the executive ensures that the organization provides comprehensive care to 50,000 patients. The Chief Medical Officer drives excellence in medical practice by fostering a culture of continuous learning and peer review. By focusing on clinical quality, the executive ensures that the organization remains a trusted provider of health services.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding HopeHealth Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads HopeHealth?
    HopeHealth is led by Charles Humphries (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Derrick Brown (Strategy Growth Chief & Officer & Chief Executive Officer, Hopehealth, Inc & , Hopehealth Foundation) and Jean Dawson (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of HopeHealth’s executive team?
    The executive team of HopeHealth includes leaders such as Charles Humphries (Chief Executive Officer), Derrick Brown (Strategy Growth Chief & Officer & Chief Executive Officer, Hopehealth, Inc & , Hopehealth Foundation), Jean Dawson (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does HopeHealth have?
    HopeHealth has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in HopeHealth’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of HopeHealth includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Strategy Growth Chief & Officer & Chief Executive Officer, Hopehealth, Inc & , Hopehealth Foundation, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer.