UNC Health Pardee Executive and Leadership Team

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 in services like cancer care, heart treatment, and orthopedics, while fostering community health initiatives. Kirby's focus extends to enhancing patient-centered care across all service lines, from urgent care to weight loss programs. By integrating Pardee Hospital's offerings with the broader UNC Health system, Jay Kirby ensures access to comprehensive healthcare solutions for local residents. The executive's responsibilities include managing financial performance, maintaining high standards of clinical quality, and championing innovation in healthcare delivery. Kirby's strategic direction guides the hospital's commitment to serving Hendersonville and surrounding communities with essential medical services.

Jeffrey Rush, the Interim Chief Financial Officer at UNC Health Pardee, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the hospital. Rush is responsible for financial planning, budgeting, revenue cycle management, and ensuring the organization's fiscal health. This critical role supports the hospital's ability to offer a wide array of services, from advanced heart and vascular treatments to primary care and weight loss programs. By managing financial resources effectively, Jeffrey Rush enables Pardee Hospital to invest in new technologies and expand its community health initiatives. The Interim Chief Financial Officer ensures compliance with all financial regulations and works closely with other executives to optimize resource allocation across departments. Rush's leadership is essential for maintaining the hospital's operational capacity and its commitment to patient-centered care within the UNC Health system.

Regina Curtis, the Chapter President at UNC Health Pardee, leads specific organizational chapters, focusing on targeted community engagement and program development. Curtis directs initiatives that align with the hospital's broader mission of enhancing health and wellness for Western NC communities. This role involves fostering relationships with local stakeholders and driving participation in health programs, including those related to cancer care, heart health, and primary services. Regina Curtis's leadership ensures that chapter activities effectively support the hospital's patient-centered approach and contribute to overall community health improvements. By championing specific organizational chapters, Curtis plays a key part in extending Pardee Hospital's reach and impact. The Chapter President's efforts are integral to strengthening the hospital's connection with the residents it serves as part of the UNC Health system.

Ken Shelton, the Chief of Staff at UNC Health Pardee, provides critical support and strategic counsel to the President & CEO. Shelton manages the coordination of key initiatives and ensures effective communication across hospital leadership and medical staff. This role involves overseeing administrative functions that streamline operations and enhance clinical efficiency. By facilitating collaboration between departments, Ken Shelton supports the delivery of comprehensive services, including specialized care in oncology, cardiology, and surgery. The Chief of Staff plays a vital part in implementing the hospital's patient-centered philosophy and community health programs. Shelton's oversight ensures that operational strategies directly contribute to the hospital's mission of improving health outcomes for Western NC residents. This leadership position requires a deep understanding of healthcare operations and a commitment to maintaining the high standards expected within the UNC Health system.

Paula Swepson, the Chief Administrative Officer at UNC Health Pardee, oversees the broad spectrum of administrative functions that support the hospital's clinical and operational objectives. Swepson manages key areas including human resources, information technology, facilities management, and legal affairs, ensuring seamless integration of these services. This leadership position is fundamental to the hospital's mission of improving health in Western NC by enabling efficient delivery of care across all service lines, such as cancer care, surgery, and orthopedics. Paula Swepson drives initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and support the patient-centered philosophy central to Pardee Hospital's identity within the UNC Health system. By optimizing administrative processes, Swepson ensures that resources are effectively deployed to meet the healthcare needs of local residents and advance community health programs. The Chief Administrative Officer's strategic oversight is crucial for maintaining high standards of service and operational excellence.