Ridgeview Executive and Leadership Team

Rhonda Matz, the Chief Executive Officer & Administrator at Ridgeview, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the health system. Matz oversees all major organizational initiatives, ensuring alignment with Ridgeview's mission to serve the southwest metro region of the Twin Cities. This leadership role involves guiding the executive team, fostering strong relationships with the board, and championing the organization's commitment to independent, nonprofit healthcare. By focusing on sustainable growth and community impact, Rhonda Matz drives the advancement of patient care services and operational efficiencies across the entire health system. The administrator function ensures seamless day-to-day operations, managing resources effectively to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the community.

Patricia Schlegel, the Chief Financial Officer at Ridgeview, directs the financial strategy and fiscal management of the health system. Schlegel oversees all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, revenue cycle management, and investment strategies to ensure the long-term financial health of the organization. This critical role involves managing financial risks, optimizing cost structures, and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations pertinent to nonprofit healthcare providers in Minnesota. By providing strategic financial insights, Patricia Schlegel supports executive decisions that align with Ridgeview's mission and operational goals. The Chief Financial Officer is instrumental in securing the financial stability necessary for continued service expansion and quality improvement across the southwest metro region.

Benjamin Nielsen, the Chief Operating Officer at Ridgeview, oversees the daily operational functions and service delivery across all facilities. Nielsen directs the implementation of operational strategies designed to enhance patient care quality, efficiency, and accessibility throughout the southwest metro region. This leadership position involves managing departmental performance, optimizing resource allocation, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. By collaborating with clinical and administrative leaders, Benjamin Nielsen drives process improvements and operational excellence. The Chief Operating Officer plays a vital part in scaling services to meet community demand, ensuring that Ridgeview's operational framework consistently supports its nonprofit mission and commitment to patient well-being.

Andrew Kester, the Chief Information Officer at Ridgeview, architects and executes the technology strategy that underpins the health system's operations. Kester directs the management of all IT infrastructure, including electronic health records, cybersecurity measures, and digital patient engagement platforms. This role is critical in ensuring data integrity, system reliability, and the secure handling of sensitive patient information across the southwest metro region. By driving innovation in health informatics, Andrew Kester enhances clinical workflows and supports data-driven decision-making for the executive team. The Chief Information Officer ensures that technology investments directly support Ridgeview's mission of providing accessible and high-quality care, optimizing system performance and user experience for all stakeholders.

Lisa Schwartz, the Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer at Ridgeview, leads all human capital strategies and initiatives. Schwartz directs the development and implementation of programs focused on talent acquisition, employee engagement, compensation and benefits, and organizational development across the health system. This role is essential for cultivating a skilled and motivated workforce that supports Ridgeview's commitment to patient care and community service in the southwest metro region. By fostering a positive and inclusive work environment, Lisa Schwartz ensures that Ridgeview attracts and retains top talent. The Chief Human Resources Officer champions employee well-being and professional growth, directly impacting the organization's ability to deliver exceptional healthcare services.

Matthew Herold, the Chief of Staff & Medical Director at Ridgeview, bridges clinical leadership with administrative operations. Herold directs medical staff affairs, ensures adherence to clinical best practices, and provides essential medical perspective to the executive team's strategic planning. This dual role involves overseeing the quality of patient care, championing physician engagement, and aligning medical services with the overall mission of the health system. By collaborating closely with the Chief Executive Officer, Matthew Herold facilitates effective communication and decision-making between clinical practitioners and organizational leadership. The Medical Director ensures that all clinical operations meet the highest standards of care and patient safety across the southwest metro region.