OakBend Medical Center Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

OakBend Medical Center has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and administration.

Driven by a commitment to patient-centered care, OakBend Medical Center is dedicated to providing exceptional service and ensuring a healthy future for generations to come through its innovative model of care.

Leadership Roles at OakBend Medical Center

  • Chief Executive Officer - Joseph Freudenberger
  • Vice President Chief Financial Officer - Edjola Xhaferi
  • Chief Operating Officer - Donna Ferguson
  • Chief of Staff - Ashley Bellew
  • Joseph Freudenberger - Chief Executive Officer

    Joseph Freudenberger, the Chief Executive Officer at OakBend Medical Center, directs the overall strategic vision and operational framework for the institution. Freudenberger guides the organization's commitment to its innovative patient-centered care model, ensuring that patients remain at the forefront of all treatment decisions. This leadership involves overseeing the integration of services across OakBend's three hospitals and numerous specialty centers, fostering an environment where doctors and nurses collaborate as leaders of the patient's care team. The Chief Executive Officer's focus extends to maintaining OakBend's status as the last remaining independent, nonprofit hospital in the Greater Houston area, driving initiatives that enhance service quality and patient outcomes. Joseph Freudenberger champions the development of advanced programs, including the signature No Wait ER and the Jack and Billie Wendt Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) unit, solidifying the hospital's reputation for exceptional care and forward-thinking healthcare solutions.

    Edjola Xhaferi - Vice President Chief Financial Officer

    Edjola Xhaferi, the Vice President Chief Financial Officer at OakBend Medical Center, manages the organization's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Xhaferi oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, revenue cycle management, and capital allocation, ensuring the sustainability of OakBend's nonprofit mission. This role is critical in supporting the hospital's commitment to providing exceptional, patient-centered care across its multiple facilities and specialty centers. The Vice President Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in maintaining financial stability, enabling investments in advanced medical technology and programs like the No Wait ER and the Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) unit. Edjola Xhaferi ensures compliance with all financial regulations and reporting requirements, safeguarding the institution's assets and optimizing financial performance. By providing robust financial oversight, Xhaferi supports OakBend Medical Center's long-term vision for growth and community health.

    Donna Ferguson - Chief Operating Officer

    Donna Ferguson, the Chief Operating Officer at OakBend Medical Center, directs the day-to-day operational activities and service delivery across the hospital system. Ferguson oversees the implementation and refinement of OakBend's innovative patient-centered care model, ensuring its effective application in all clinical settings. This leadership encompasses managing the operational aspects of OakBend's three hospitals and various specialty centers, focusing on optimizing resource allocation and enhancing patient flow. The Chief Operating Officer is responsible for the performance of key services, including the advanced trauma center and the signature No Wait ER, driving operational excellence and patient satisfaction. Donna Ferguson works to maintain the hospital's nonprofit status and its position as a leading independent healthcare provider in the Greater Houston area. By streamlining processes and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Ferguson ensures OakBend Medical Center consistently delivers high-quality, compassionate care.
    Donna Ferguson

    Ashley Bellew - Chief of Staff

    Ashley Bellew, the Chief of Staff at OakBend Medical Center, executes strategic initiatives and facilitates operational alignment across the organization. Bellew supports the Chief Executive Officer in driving the hospital's mission, ensuring the patient-centered care model is consistently applied throughout all facilities. This role involves coordinating efforts between administrative departments and clinical services, optimizing workflows to enhance efficiency and patient experience. The Chief of Staff plays a crucial part in translating high-level strategic objectives into actionable plans, managing key projects that advance OakBend's commitment to exceptional service. Ashley Bellew also oversees internal communications and stakeholder engagement, reinforcing the hospital's unique approach to healthcare delivery. By managing critical administrative functions, Bellew ensures seamless operations that support OakBend's dedication to providing advanced trauma care and specialized units like the ACE unit.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding OakBend Medical Center Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads OakBend Medical Center?
    OakBend Medical Center is led by Joseph Freudenberger (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Edjola Xhaferi (Vice President Chief Financial Officer) and Donna Ferguson (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of OakBend Medical Center’s executive team?
    The executive team of OakBend Medical Center includes leaders such as Joseph Freudenberger (Chief Executive Officer), Edjola Xhaferi (Vice President Chief Financial Officer), Donna Ferguson (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does OakBend Medical Center have?
    OakBend Medical Center has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in OakBend Medical Center’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of OakBend Medical Center includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Vice President Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff.