Orlando Health Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Orlando Health has 10 executives leading key functions including operations, information technology, finance, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to community well-being, Orlando Health advances healthcare excellence through integrated services and patient-centered care, impacting millions across Central Florida and beyond.

Leadership Roles at Orlando Health

  • Group Chief Financial Officer, Health Medical (Orlando) - Daniel Hodges
  • Chief Operating Officer - April Ernst
  • Regional Associate Chief Operating Officer, Medical Center (Orlando) - Matthew Burkhalter
  • Associate Chief Operating Officer - Dustin Pierce
  • Associate Chief Operating Officer - Sara Bozorg
  • President, Foundation, Region (Florida, West) - Blake Bard
  • Chief Information Officer - Pedro Ríos-Mercado
  • Vice President, Regional Chief Information Officer - Sean Michaels
  • Regional Chief Human Resources Officer - Nina Thomas
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Karen Frenier
  • Daniel Hodges - Group Chief Financial Officer, Health Medical (Orlando)

    Daniel Hodges, the Group Chief Financial Officer, Health Medical (Orlando) at Orlando Health, directs the financial strategy and oversight for the organization's medical operations in the Orlando region. This senior finance role involves managing budgets, financial planning, and ensuring the fiscal health of multiple medical facilities and service lines. Hodges' responsibilities include optimizing revenue cycles, controlling costs, and providing critical financial insights to support strategic decision-making. By leading financial operations, Daniel Hodges ensures that Orlando Health can continue its mission of providing comprehensive healthcare services while maintaining financial sustainability across its extensive network. The CFO's expertise is vital for long-term organizational growth and stability.

    April Ernst - Chief Operating Officer

    April Ernst, the Chief Operating Officer at Orlando Health, directs the operational framework across the expansive healthcare network. Overseeing daily functions, Ernst ensures the efficient delivery of patient care services throughout Orlando Health's 17 hospitals and over 200 outpatient locations. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation and streamlining workflows to enhance both patient outcomes and operational efficiency. By managing the complex interplay of clinical and administrative departments, April Ernst drives the organization's commitment to providing comprehensive, high-quality healthcare. The focus remains on maintaining robust operational standards that support the organization's mission across Central Florida and its expanding service areas.

    Matthew Burkhalter - Regional Associate Chief Operating Officer, Medical Center (Orlando)

    Matthew Burkhalter, the Regional Associate Chief Operating Officer, Medical Center (Orlando) at Orlando Health, manages the intricate operational dynamics of the flagship Orlando Regional Medical Center. This position involves direct oversight of daily hospital operations, ensuring seamless patient care delivery and efficient resource utilization within this key facility. Burkhalter's responsibilities extend to coordinating departmental functions and implementing strategic initiatives to enhance clinical services and patient satisfaction. By focusing on the specific needs of the Orlando Medical Center, Matthew Burkhalter drives operational excellence and supports the broader Orlando Health network's commitment to community health. The role emphasizes optimizing performance within a major medical center setting.

    Dustin Pierce - Associate Chief Operating Officer

    Dustin Pierce, the Associate Chief Operating Officer at Orlando Health, contributes to the strategic operational management of the healthcare system. This role involves supporting the Chief Operating Officer in overseeing various departments and facilities, ensuring alignment with Orlando Health's mission of providing exceptional patient care. Pierce's focus includes enhancing operational efficiency, managing resources effectively, and implementing best practices across outpatient locations and potentially specific hospital services. By collaborating with clinical and administrative teams, Dustin Pierce drives initiatives that improve patient experiences and support the organization's growth and service expansion throughout Central Florida. The position requires a deep understanding of healthcare operations.

    Sara Bozorg - Associate Chief Operating Officer

    Sara Bozorg, the Associate Chief Operating Officer at Orlando Health, plays a key part in managing the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the healthcare system. This position involves supporting senior leadership in overseeing various departments and ensuring the smooth functioning of clinical and administrative services across multiple locations. Bozorg's responsibilities include contributing to strategic planning, implementing operational improvements, and enhancing patient care delivery models. By focusing on operational excellence, Sara Bozorg supports Orlando Health's commitment to providing accessible and high-quality healthcare services throughout Central Florida. The role emphasizes driving positive outcomes through meticulous operational oversight.

    Blake Bard - President, Foundation, Region (Florida, West)

    Blake Bard, the President, Foundation, Region (Florida, West) at Orlando Health, leads the philanthropic efforts and strategic development for the organization within its western Florida regions. This executive position involves cultivating donor relationships, securing funding, and directing initiatives that support Orlando Health's mission and expansion. Bard's responsibilities include overseeing foundation operations, driving fundraising campaigns, and ensuring that financial contributions align with the organization's healthcare objectives. By championing the foundation's work, Blake Bard secures vital resources that enhance patient care, support medical research, and advance community health programs across the designated western Florida territories. The role is crucial for financial growth and mission advancement.

    Pedro Ríos-Mercado - Chief Information Officer

    Pedro Ríos-Mercado, the Chief Information Officer at Orlando Health, architects the technology strategy that underpins the organization's comprehensive healthcare services. Overseeing all information systems, Ríos-Mercado ensures the secure and efficient management of patient data and clinical technologies across 17 hospitals and numerous outpatient facilities. This critical role involves driving innovation in digital health solutions, enhancing interoperability between systems, and safeguarding sensitive information. By leading the IT infrastructure, Pedro Ríos-Mercado supports Orlando Health's mission to deliver advanced patient care and operational excellence throughout Central Florida. The CIO's strategic vision ensures technology advancements directly contribute to improved patient experiences and clinical decision-making.
    Pedro Ríos-Mercado

    Sean Michaels - Vice President, Regional Chief Information Officer

    Sean Michaels, the Vice President, Regional Chief Information Officer at Orlando Health, oversees the information technology infrastructure and strategy for specific regions within the healthcare system. This leadership position involves managing IT operations, ensuring system reliability, and implementing technology solutions that support clinical and administrative functions across multiple facilities. Michaels' role focuses on aligning regional IT needs with the broader organizational technology goals, enhancing data security, and driving digital transformation initiatives. By leading regional IT efforts, Sean Michaels ensures that technology effectively supports patient care delivery and operational efficiency throughout the designated service areas. The VP's focus is on localized IT excellence within the larger network.

    Nina Thomas - Regional Chief Human Resources Officer

    Nina Thomas, the Regional Chief Human Resources Officer at Orlando Health, leads the human resources strategy and operations for specific geographic areas within the healthcare system. This executive role involves overseeing talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and workforce development initiatives tailored to regional needs. Thomas's responsibilities include fostering a positive work environment, ensuring compliance with labor laws, and supporting the professional growth of employees across various facilities. By championing HR best practices, Nina Thomas ensures that Orlando Health attracts and retains top talent, thereby supporting the delivery of high-quality patient care throughout its regional operations. The focus is on building a strong, engaged workforce.

    Karen Frenier - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Karen Frenier, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Orlando Health, directs the comprehensive human resources strategy for the entire organization. This pivotal role encompasses talent management, organizational development, employee engagement, and ensuring a robust workforce to support Orlando Health's extensive network of hospitals and outpatient centers. Frenier's leadership focuses on cultivating a culture of excellence, promoting diversity and inclusion, and aligning HR initiatives with the organization's strategic objectives. By overseeing all aspects of human capital, Karen Frenier ensures that Orlando Health remains an employer of choice, attracting and retaining skilled professionals dedicated to advancing community health across Central Florida. The CHRO's vision shapes the employee experience.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Orlando Health Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Orlando Health?
    Orlando Health is led by Daniel Hodges (Group Chief Financial Officer, Health Medical (Orlando)), along with executives such as April Ernst (Chief Operating Officer) and Matthew Burkhalter (Regional Associate Chief Operating Officer, Medical Center (Orlando)).
    Who is part of Orlando Health’s executive team?
    The executive team of Orlando Health includes leaders such as Daniel Hodges (Group Chief Financial Officer, Health Medical (Orlando)), April Ernst (Chief Operating Officer), Matthew Burkhalter (Regional Associate Chief Operating Officer, Medical Center (Orlando)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Orlando Health have?
    Orlando Health has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Orlando Health’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Orlando Health includes roles such as Group Chief Financial Officer, Health Medical (Orlando), Chief Operating Officer, Regional Associate Chief Operating Officer, Medical Center (Orlando), Associate Chief Operating Officer, Associate Chief Operating Officer.