UNC Health Pardee Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

UNC Health Pardee has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, medical affairs, and finance.

Driven by a commitment to community health, UNC Health Pardee delivers comprehensive healthcare services, emphasizing patient-centered care and advanced treatment options across Western North Carolina.

Leadership Roles at UNC Health Pardee

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Jay Kirby
  • Interim Chief Financial Officer - Jeffrey Rush
  • Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Michael Sunday
  • Chapter President - Regina Curtis
  • Chief of Staff - Ken Shelton
  • Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Medical Affairs - Gregory McCarty
  • Chief Medical Officer, Vpma - David Ellis
  • Jay Kirby - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Jay Kirby, the President & Chief Executive Officer at UNC Health Pardee, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the hospital. Kirby oversees all major departments, ensuring alignment with the mission of improving Western North Carolina's health. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives and maintaining the hospital's commitment to patient-centered care. Kirby's strategic direction ensures that Pardee Hospital effectively serves local residents with a wide range of services, from cancer care to primary care. The President & Chief Executive Officer also champions community health initiatives, reinforcing the hospital's integral role within the UNC Health system. Jay Kirby's focus remains on enhancing service delivery and fostering innovation across all medical disciplines.
    Jay Kirby

    Jeffrey Rush - Interim Chief Financial Officer

    Jeffrey Rush, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at UNC Health Pardee, manages the hospital's financial operations and fiscal strategy. Rush oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to support the delivery of comprehensive healthcare services. This critical role ensures the financial stability and sustainability of Pardee Hospital, enabling continued investment in advanced treatments and community health programs. The Interim Chief Financial Officer works closely with other executive leaders to optimize financial performance and maintain compliance with healthcare regulations. Jeffrey Rush's leadership guides the financial direction, supporting the hospital's mission to serve Western North Carolina residents effectively. Rush ensures fiscal responsibility across all departments.

    Michael Sunday - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Michael Sunday, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at UNC Health Pardee, directs the financial health and strategic fiscal planning for the organization. Sunday oversees all financial activities, including revenue cycle management, capital expenditures, and financial reporting, ensuring robust fiscal operations. This executive leadership position is vital for sustaining the hospital's wide range of services, from cancer care to orthopedics, and supporting community health initiatives. The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer collaborates with the executive team to drive financial performance and long-term growth. Michael Sunday's expertise ensures that UNC Health Pardee remains a financially sound institution, capable of meeting the healthcare needs of Western North Carolina. Sunday's stewardship guarantees resource availability for critical services.

    Regina Curtis - Chapter President

    Regina Curtis, the Chapter President at UNC Health Pardee, leads specific organizational initiatives and community engagement efforts. Curtis focuses on strengthening the hospital's connection with local residents and advancing its mission within Western North Carolina. This leadership position involves overseeing programs designed to improve community health and support patient well-being. The Chapter President works to foster partnerships and ensure that Pardee Hospital's services effectively meet the evolving needs of the population it serves. Regina Curtis's dedication is central to enhancing the hospital's role as a trusted healthcare provider. Curtis drives initiatives that promote health equity and access to care.

    Ken Shelton - Chief of Staff

    Ken Shelton, the Chief of Staff at UNC Health Pardee, provides critical support and strategic counsel to the President & Chief Executive Officer. Shelton manages the flow of information and decision-making processes, ensuring operational efficiency across various hospital functions. This role involves coordinating efforts between administrative leadership and medical staff, facilitating effective communication and collaboration. The Chief of Staff plays a key part in implementing strategic initiatives and ensuring adherence to the hospital's core values. Ken Shelton's responsibilities include overseeing special projects and ensuring that the executive team operates cohesively to advance the health of Western North Carolina communities. Shelton's oversight ensures seamless integration of services.

    Gregory McCarty - Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Medical Affairs

    Gregory McCarty, the Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Medical Affairs at UNC Health Pardee, leads clinical strategy and medical operations. McCarty ensures the highest standards of patient care are maintained across all service lines, including heart and vascular treatment and surgery. This role involves collaborating with physicians and clinical staff to enhance treatment protocols and patient outcomes. The Chief Medical Officer & Vice President, Medical Affairs champions clinical excellence and innovation, aligning medical practices with the hospital's mission and the broader UNC Health system's objectives. Gregory McCarty's leadership drives the quality and effectiveness of medical services provided to the Western North Carolina community. McCarty's focus is on advancing clinical practice and patient safety.

    David Ellis - Chief Medical Officer, Vpma

    David Ellis, the Chief Medical Officer, Vpma at UNC Health Pardee, oversees the strategic direction of medical affairs and clinical operations. Ellis ensures the delivery of high-quality, patient-centered care across all departments, including urgent care and weight loss programs. This executive role involves fostering collaboration among medical staff and driving improvements in clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. The Chief Medical Officer, Vpma plays a crucial part in implementing evidence-based practices and advancing the hospital's commitment to healthcare excellence within the UNC Health system. David Ellis's leadership ensures that Pardee Hospital consistently provides comprehensive and compassionate healthcare services to the Western North Carolina region. Ellis guides clinical teams toward achieving superior patient results.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding UNC Health Pardee Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads UNC Health Pardee?
    UNC Health Pardee is led by Jay Kirby (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Jeffrey Rush (Interim Chief Financial Officer) and Michael Sunday (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of UNC Health Pardee’s executive team?
    The executive team of UNC Health Pardee includes leaders such as Jay Kirby (President & Chief Executive Officer), Jeffrey Rush (Interim Chief Financial Officer), Michael Sunday (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does UNC Health Pardee have?
    UNC Health Pardee has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in UNC Health Pardee’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of UNC Health Pardee includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Interim Chief Financial Officer, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Chapter President, Chief of Staff.