The UBNS Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

The UBNS has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and mission advocacy.

Driven by a commitment to advancing neurosurgical care, The UBNS dedicates its efforts to pioneering treatments, comprehensive patient support, and groundbreaking research, solidifying its position as a vital referral center for complex neurological conditions across Western New York.

Leadership Roles at The UBNS

  • Chief Executive Officer - Michael Cournyea
  • Chief Financial Officer - Hope Kianka
  • Chief Operating Officer - Kimberly Crangle
  • UBNS MissionBrain Chapter President - Syuzanna Leigh
  • Michael Cournyea - Chief Executive Officer

    Michael Cournyea, the Chief Executive Officer at The UBNS, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the neurosurgical group. Cournyea guides the organization's expansion and ensures alignment with its core mission of providing exceptional patient care, advancing clinical research, and fostering educational initiatives within neurosurgery. This leadership role involves cultivating key relationships with healthcare partners and stakeholders across Western New York, enhancing the group's reputation as a premier referral center. Michael Cournyea oversees the integration of new technologies and treatment methodologies, driving innovation in areas such as minimally invasive spine surgery and complex cranial procedures. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on optimizing patient outcomes and ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of UBNS's comprehensive neurosurgical services.

    Hope Kianka - Chief Financial Officer

    Hope Kianka, the Chief Financial Officer at The UBNS, directs all financial planning, management, and reporting for the neurosurgical group. Kianka oversees the fiscal health of the organization, ensuring robust financial strategies that support UBNS's mission of patient care, research, and education. This involves managing budgets, analyzing financial performance, and identifying opportunities for revenue enhancement and cost optimization across all service lines, including specialized areas like minimally invasive spine surgery and cranial procedures. Hope Kianka plays a critical part in securing funding for clinical research initiatives and capital investments in advanced medical technology. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight ensures the financial stability necessary for UBNS to maintain its status as a premier referral center and expand its accessible expert care throughout Western New York.

    Kimberly Crangle - Chief Operating Officer

    Kimberly Crangle, the Chief Operating Officer at The UBNS, manages the day-to-day operational efficiency and service delivery across all UBNS facilities in Western New York. Crangle ensures that the group's extensive range of neurosurgical services, from pediatric to adult care, are delivered seamlessly and meet the highest standards of quality and patient safety. This involves optimizing workflows for minimally invasive spine surgery, cranial surgery, and interventional pain management, directly supporting the organization's commitment to comprehensive care. Kimberly Crangle oversees resource allocation, facility management, and the implementation of operational improvements designed to enhance patient access and experience. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to ensuring regulatory compliance and fostering a collaborative environment among clinical staff, thereby reinforcing UBNS's position as a leading referral center for complex neurosurgical conditions.

    Syuzanna Leigh - UBNS MissionBrain Chapter President

    Syuzanna Leigh, the UBNS MissionBrain Chapter President at The UBNS, champions the organization's commitment to patient care, education, and clinical research. Leigh leads initiatives that foster a deeper understanding and engagement with neurosurgical disorders, connecting the clinical expertise of UBNS with broader community and research goals. This role involves advocating for patient well-being and supporting the development of programs that enhance the patient experience and drive forward the frontiers of neurosurgical innovation. Syuzanna Leigh works to integrate the group's research efforts with its clinical practice, ensuring that advancements in areas like minimally invasive spine surgery and interventional pain management directly benefit patients. The UBNS MissionBrain Chapter President's dedication reinforces The UBNS's reputation as a leading referral center focused on comprehensive care and pioneering treatments.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding The UBNS Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads The UBNS?
    The UBNS is led by Michael Cournyea (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Hope Kianka (Chief Financial Officer) and Kimberly Crangle (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of The UBNS’s executive team?
    The executive team of The UBNS includes leaders such as Michael Cournyea (Chief Executive Officer), Hope Kianka (Chief Financial Officer), Kimberly Crangle (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does The UBNS have?
    The UBNS has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in The UBNS’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of The UBNS includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, UBNS MissionBrain Chapter President.