Northwest Permanente Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Northwest Permanente has 4 executives leading key functions including operations, finance, administration, and people management.

Driven by a commitment to comprehensive healthcare, Northwest Permanente delivers high-quality medical services to approximately 625,000 Kaiser Permanente members across Oregon and southwest Washington, ensuring robust health outcomes.

Leadership Roles at Northwest Permanente

  • Chief Financial Officer - Jennifer Valentine
  • Chief Operating Officer - Mary Giswold
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Martin Zerr
  • Vice President & Chief People Officer - Eric Poolman
  • Jennifer Valentine - Chief Financial Officer

    Jennifer Valentine, the Chief Financial Officer at Northwest Permanente, manages the financial health and strategic fiscal planning for the healthcare organization. Valentine oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility across the 1,300-physician group. This critical role supports the delivery of high-quality medical services to 625,000 Kaiser Permanente members in Oregon and southwest Washington by securing the necessary financial resources. Jennifer Valentine's leadership ensures that financial strategies align with the organization's mission of providing comprehensive healthcare and maintaining operational sustainability. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include analyzing financial performance, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and managing investments to support the organization's growth and commitment to member care. Valentine's expertise is vital in navigating the complex financial landscape of healthcare delivery.
    Jennifer Valentine

    Mary Giswold - Chief Operating Officer

    Mary Giswold, the Chief Operating Officer at Northwest Permanente, directs the operational execution of multispecialty care delivery for over 1,300 physicians serving 625,000 Kaiser Permanente members in Oregon and southwest Washington. Giswold oversees the intricate network of medical services, ensuring seamless integration across departments to uphold the organization's dedication to high-quality healthcare. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation and streamlining clinical workflows to enhance patient care efficiency and accessibility. By focusing on operational excellence, Mary Giswold drives the strategic implementation of healthcare services, directly impacting the comprehensive well-being of the member population. The Chief Operating Officer's purview extends to managing the day-to-day functions that support the organization's mission of providing superior medical attention and ensuring member satisfaction across all service lines.

    Martin Zerr - Chief Administrative Officer

    Martin Zerr, the Chief Administrative Officer at Northwest Permanente, directs the administrative functions that support the organization's extensive healthcare operations. Zerr oversees critical administrative processes, ensuring the efficient management of resources and the smooth functioning of the 1,300-physician multispecialty group. This leadership position is integral to maintaining the high-quality medical services provided to 625,000 Kaiser Permanente members across Oregon and southwest Washington. Martin Zerr's strategic oversight ensures that administrative policies and procedures effectively support the organization's commitment to comprehensive healthcare delivery. The Chief Administrative Officer's scope includes managing facilities, compliance, and operational support systems, all vital for the organization's mission. Zerr's role is foundational in creating an environment where physicians can focus on delivering exceptional patient care and upholding the organization's reputation for excellence.
    Martin Zerr

    Eric Poolman - Vice President & Chief People Officer

    Eric Poolman, the Vice President & Chief People Officer at Northwest Permanente, leads human capital strategy and talent management for the organization's 1,300 physicians and supporting staff. Poolman is responsible for cultivating a positive and productive work environment, essential for delivering high-quality medical services to 625,000 Kaiser Permanente members in Oregon and southwest Washington. This role drives initiatives focused on employee engagement, professional development, and retention, ensuring the organization has the skilled workforce necessary to fulfill its mission of comprehensive healthcare. Eric Poolman's leadership ensures that people-related strategies align with Northwest Permanente's commitment to excellence and member well-being. The Chief People Officer's purview includes overseeing recruitment, compensation, benefits, and fostering a culture that supports the organization's dedication to patient care and physician satisfaction. Poolman's efforts are critical to maintaining a robust and motivated team.
    Eric Poolman

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Northwest Permanente Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Northwest Permanente?
    Northwest Permanente is led by Jennifer Valentine (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Mary Giswold (Chief Operating Officer) and Martin Zerr (Chief Administrative Officer).
    Who is part of Northwest Permanente’s executive team?
    The executive team of Northwest Permanente includes leaders such as Jennifer Valentine (Chief Financial Officer), Mary Giswold (Chief Operating Officer), Martin Zerr (Chief Administrative Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Northwest Permanente have?
    Northwest Permanente has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Northwest Permanente’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Northwest Permanente includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Administrative Officer, Vice President & Chief People Officer.