UF Health Executive and Leadership Team

Robert Thornton, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at UF Health, directs all financial operations and strategic fiscal planning for the organization. Thornton is responsible for managing financial resources, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and driving financial growth to support UF Health's mission of advancing patient care and scientific discovery. This critical role involves overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, investment strategies, and revenue cycle management across all UF Health entities. By maintaining strong financial health, Robert Thornton enables the organization to invest in cutting-edge research and expand its capacity for delivering exceptional patient services. The Chief Financial Officer's leadership ensures the long-term sustainability and operational effectiveness of UF Health's extensive healthcare network, directly impacting its ability to serve the community.

Daren Atalig, the Chief of Staff at UF Health, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the organization. Atalig ensures that departmental objectives directly support UF Health's overarching mission of advancing patient care through scientific discovery. This leadership position involves coordinating key projects and facilitating communication between executive leadership and various operational units. By optimizing internal processes, Atalig enhances organizational efficiency and supports the delivery of high-quality healthcare services. The Chief of Staff's role is critical in translating high-level strategy into actionable plans, ensuring seamless execution and fostering a culture of continuous improvement throughout UF Health's extensive network. Atalig's focus remains on driving forward the organization's commitment to patient well-being and medical innovation.

Patricia Rizzo, the Associate Chief Information Officer, Uf Health Central Florida at UF Health, oversees critical information technology infrastructure and strategy for the Central Florida region. Rizzo ensures that technology solutions directly support patient care delivery and operational efficiency within this key geographic area. This role involves managing the implementation and maintenance of advanced IT systems, safeguarding sensitive patient data, and driving digital transformation initiatives. Rizzo's leadership ensures technological advancements align with UF Health's mission to translate scientific discoveries into patient care. By optimizing IT operations, Patricia Rizzo enhances the capabilities of healthcare professionals and improves the overall patient experience across Central Florida. The focus remains on leveraging technology to achieve superior health outcomes and operational excellence.

Jasen Kloeppel, the Associate Chief Technology Officer, Crio at UF Health, drives technological innovation and development within the Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI). Kloeppel's responsibilities include architecting and implementing cutting-edge technology solutions that accelerate scientific discovery and its translation into patient care. This role demands a deep understanding of both technological capabilities and clinical research needs. By fostering a culture of innovation, Jasen Kloeppel supports researchers and clinicians in leveraging advanced tools to improve health outcomes. The Associate Chief Technology Officer's work is integral to UF Health's mission of advancing medical science and enhancing patient lives through technological prowess. Kloeppel ensures that technological infrastructure effectively supports the complex demands of modern medical research and patient treatment.

Gigi Lipori, the Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at UF Health, leads the strategic direction and execution of all information technology initiatives across the enterprise. Lipori is responsible for developing and implementing robust IT infrastructure, ensuring data security, and driving digital transformation to enhance patient care and operational efficiency. This role involves overseeing a vast array of technology services, from electronic health records to advanced data analytics, all aimed at supporting UF Health's commitment to translating scientific discoveries into patient benefits. Gigi Lipori's vision ensures that technology serves as a powerful enabler for clinicians and researchers, fostering innovation and improving patient outcomes. The Chief Information Officer's leadership is pivotal in maintaining UF Health's position at the forefront of healthcare technology and service delivery.

Sean Hudson, the Associate Chief Information Officer & Vice President at UF Health, plays a key role in managing and enhancing the organization's information technology systems and services. Hudson focuses on optimizing IT operations to directly support UF Health's mission of advancing patient care and scientific research. This leadership position involves overseeing the implementation of new technologies, ensuring system reliability, and driving initiatives that improve user experience for healthcare professionals. By collaborating with various departments, Sean Hudson ensures that IT solutions are aligned with strategic goals and contribute to operational excellence. The Associate Chief Information Officer's work is essential in maintaining a secure, efficient, and innovative technological environment that underpins UF Health's commitment to patient well-being and medical advancement.

Kevin Sweeny, the Vice President Chief Of Staff at UF Health, supports the executive leadership team in driving strategic initiatives and operational effectiveness. Sweeny facilitates the execution of key organizational priorities, ensuring alignment across departments and fostering efficient communication channels. This role involves managing special projects, coordinating executive meetings, and providing critical support to advance UF Health's mission of translating scientific discoveries into patient care. By streamlining operations and enhancing internal collaboration, Kevin Sweeny contributes significantly to the organization's ability to achieve its goals. The Vice President Chief Of Staff's dedication ensures that UF Health operates with maximum efficiency and strategic focus, ultimately benefiting patient outcomes and advancing medical innovation.

Edward Daech, the Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at UF Health, leads all human capital strategies and initiatives to support the organization's extensive workforce. Daech is responsible for talent acquisition, employee development, compensation and benefits, and fostering a positive and productive work environment that aligns with UF Health's mission. This critical role ensures that UF Health attracts, retains, and develops the skilled faculty and staff necessary to advance scientific discovery and deliver exceptional patient care. By championing employee well-being and professional growth, Edward Daech cultivates a culture of excellence and dedication. The Chief Human Resources Officer's leadership is fundamental to UF Health's ability to achieve its ambitious goals in healthcare and research.

Maria Kelly, the Chief Medical Officer at UF Health, provides clinical leadership and strategic direction to ensure the highest standards of patient care and medical excellence. Kelly oversees clinical operations, quality improvement initiatives, and patient safety protocols across UF Health's diverse healthcare settings. This role is pivotal in translating scientific advancements into effective patient treatments and ensuring that clinical practices align with UF Health's commitment to patient well-being. By collaborating closely with physicians, nurses, and administrative leaders, Maria Kelly drives clinical innovation and operational efficiency. The Chief Medical Officer's expertise is essential in maintaining UF Health's reputation for delivering compassionate, high-quality healthcare and advancing medical knowledge.

Bill Young, the Chief Legal Officer at UF Health, directs all legal affairs and provides strategic counsel to ensure compliance and mitigate risk across the organization. Young oversees legal operations, regulatory matters, and corporate governance, safeguarding UF Health's interests while supporting its mission of advancing patient care and scientific discovery. This essential role requires a comprehensive understanding of healthcare law and complex regulatory frameworks. By providing expert legal guidance, Bill Young enables UF Health to navigate the intricate legal landscape effectively and pursue its objectives with confidence. The Chief Legal Officer's leadership is critical in maintaining the integrity and operational stability of UF Health's extensive healthcare and research endeavors.