Kadlec Regional Medical Center Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Kadlec Regional Medical Center has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and clinic management.

Dedicated to serving the Mid-Columbia region, Kadlec Regional Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services, guided by a philosophy of accessible, high-quality patient care and community well-being.

Leadership Roles at Kadlec Regional Medical Center

  • Chief Executive Officer - Vanessa Soto
  • Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Julie Meek
  • Chief Financial Officer (Southeast Washington Service Area) - Spencer Harris
  • Chief Operating Officer - Kirk Harper
  • Chief Operating Officer - PCN SEWA - Robert Watilo
  • President, Kadlec Clinic - Kenneth Lester
  • Vanessa Soto - Chief Executive Officer

    Vanessa Soto, the Chief Executive Officer at Kadlec Regional Medical Center, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the non-profit regional medical center. Soto guides the organization's mission to provide comprehensive care throughout the Mid-Columbia region, ensuring alignment with community health needs and industry best practices. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of excellence and innovation across all departments, from patient services to administrative functions. Vanessa Soto oversees the integration of clinical services and strategic partnerships, driving the center's growth and sustainability. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to financial health, regulatory compliance, and maintaining the highest standards of patient care, directly impacting the organization's market position and community trust.

    Julie Meek - Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Julie Meek, the Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Kadlec Regional Medical Center, oversees all financial operations and strategic financial planning for the organization. Meek manages budgeting, financial reporting, revenue cycle management, and investment strategies to ensure the financial stability and long-term viability of the non-profit medical center. This critical role involves safeguarding assets, optimizing financial performance, and ensuring compliance with all relevant financial regulations. Julie Meek directs the finance department, providing essential financial insights to support executive decision-making and strategic initiatives. The Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in securing funding and managing expenditures to support Kadlec's mission of providing accessible healthcare.

    Spencer Harris - Chief Financial Officer (Southeast Washington Service Area)

    Spencer Harris, the Chief Financial Officer (Southeast Washington Service Area) at Kadlec Regional Medical Center, directs financial strategy and oversight specifically for the Southeast Washington region served by Kadlec. Harris ensures robust financial management, including budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation tailored to the unique operational demands of this service area. This executive focuses on driving financial performance and sustainability within the designated geographic scope, supporting the delivery of comprehensive healthcare services. Spencer Harris collaborates with regional leadership to identify financial opportunities and mitigate risks, ensuring efficient use of resources. The Chief Financial Officer (Southeast Washington Service Area) is integral to maintaining the financial health and operational capacity of Kadlec's presence in this key market.

    Kirk Harper - Chief Operating Officer

    Kirk Harper, the Chief Operating Officer at Kadlec Regional Medical Center, manages the day-to-day operational activities and service delivery across the medical center's various locations. Harper focuses on optimizing patient flow, resource allocation, and operational efficiency to support the delivery of high-quality healthcare throughout the Mid-Columbia. This executive ensures that clinical departments function seamlessly, adhering to stringent quality and safety protocols. Kirk Harper's responsibilities include overseeing facility management, information technology infrastructure, and the implementation of operational improvements that enhance patient experience and clinical outcomes. The Chief Operating Officer drives initiatives aimed at streamlining processes and maximizing the effectiveness of the medical center's extensive network of services.

    Robert Watilo - Chief Operating Officer - PCN SEWA

    Robert Watilo, the Chief Operating Officer - PCN SEWA at Kadlec Regional Medical Center, leads operational strategies and execution for the Physician Care Network within the Southeast Washington (SEWA) area. Watilo focuses on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of clinical operations, ensuring seamless patient care delivery across the network's facilities. This role involves optimizing resource utilization, managing operational workflows, and implementing best practices to support the network's growth and service expansion. Robert Watilo drives initiatives aimed at improving patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes, directly contributing to the network's mission. The Chief Operating Officer - PCN SEWA ensures operational alignment with Kadlec's broader strategic objectives for the region.
    Robert Watilo

    Kenneth Lester - President, Kadlec Clinic

    Kenneth Lester, the President, Kadlec Clinic at Kadlec Regional Medical Center, leads the strategic direction and operational management of the Kadlec Clinic network. Lester oversees the integration of clinical services, physician relations, and patient care delivery across all clinic locations, ensuring alignment with the medical center's overall mission. This executive focuses on enhancing the patient experience, driving clinical excellence, and fostering a collaborative environment for healthcare professionals. Kenneth Lester directs initiatives to expand access to care and improve health outcomes for the communities served by the clinic system. The President, Kadlec Clinic is instrumental in shaping the future of outpatient services and physician practice management within the organization.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Kadlec Regional Medical Center Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Kadlec Regional Medical Center?
    Kadlec Regional Medical Center is led by Vanessa Soto (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Julie Meek (Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer) and Spencer Harris (Chief Financial Officer (Southeast Washington Service Area)).
    Who is part of Kadlec Regional Medical Center’s executive team?
    The executive team of Kadlec Regional Medical Center includes leaders such as Vanessa Soto (Chief Executive Officer), Julie Meek (Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer), Spencer Harris (Chief Financial Officer (Southeast Washington Service Area)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Kadlec Regional Medical Center have?
    Kadlec Regional Medical Center has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Kadlec Regional Medical Center’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Kadlec Regional Medical Center includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer (Southeast Washington Service Area), Chief Operating Officer, Chief Operating Officer - PCN SEWA.