Ridgeview Executive and Leadership Team

Patricia Schlegel, the Chief Financial Officer at Ridgeview, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the independent, nonprofit health system. Schlegel manages budgeting, financial planning, revenue cycle management, and investment strategies, ensuring the long-term financial health and sustainability of Ridgeview Medical Center. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation to support patient care initiatives and operational expansion across the southwest metro region of the Twin Cities. By maintaining robust financial controls and exploring innovative funding models, Patricia Schlegel directly contributes to the organization's ability to provide accessible, high-quality healthcare services. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to all financial reporting and compliance, aligning fiscal activities with the broader mission of community well-being.

Benjamin Nielsen, the Chief Operating Officer at Ridgeview, oversees the day-to-day operational functions and strategic execution of services across the health system. Nielsen directs patient care delivery, facility management, and operational efficiency, ensuring seamless integration of clinical and administrative processes. This critical role involves enhancing patient experience, optimizing workflows, and implementing best practices to support the delivery of comprehensive healthcare throughout the southwest metro region. By driving operational excellence, Benjamin Nielsen ensures that Ridgeview Medical Center effectively meets the evolving needs of the communities it serves. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include managing departmental performance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement to uphold the organization's mission.

Andrew Kester, the Chief Information Officer at Ridgeview, architects and directs the organization's information technology strategy and infrastructure. Kester oversees the implementation and management of all technology systems, including electronic health records, data security, and digital health initiatives, crucial for modern healthcare delivery. This leadership position ensures that technology effectively supports clinical operations, enhances patient care, and drives innovation across Ridgeview Medical Center. By championing digital transformation, Andrew Kester enables greater data accessibility, improves operational efficiency, and strengthens the system's cybersecurity posture. The Chief Information Officer's strategic vision is vital for maintaining Ridgeview's competitive edge and its commitment to serving the southwest metro region with advanced technological solutions.

Matthew Herold, the Chief of Staff & Medical Director at Ridgeview, bridges clinical leadership with administrative strategy, ensuring medical excellence and operational alignment. Herold directs physician relations, oversees clinical quality initiatives, and provides essential medical guidance for strategic decision-making across the health system. This dual role is pivotal in translating the organization's mission into effective patient care protocols and fostering a collaborative environment between medical staff and leadership. By championing evidence-based practices and physician engagement, Matthew Herold significantly impacts the quality and delivery of healthcare services. The Chief of Staff & Medical Director's influence is key to maintaining high standards of care and advancing the clinical mission of Ridgeview Medical Center.

Rhonda Matz, the Chief Operations Officer at Ridgeview, drives operational excellence and strategic growth across key service lines within the health system. Matz focuses on optimizing resource utilization, enhancing patient throughput, and implementing innovative operational models to improve service delivery throughout the southwest metro region. This leadership role involves direct oversight of critical operational departments, ensuring alignment with the organization's mission and financial objectives. By refining operational workflows and fostering interdepartmental collaboration, Rhonda Matz directly contributes to Ridgeview Medical Center's capacity to provide accessible and high-quality healthcare. The Chief Operations Officer's expertise is essential for scaling services and maintaining efficiency in a dynamic healthcare landscape.