Vanderbilt Health Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Vanderbilt Health has 10 executives leading key functions including clinical operations, financial strategy, human resources, and corporate communications.

Committed to advancing medical excellence, Vanderbilt Health delivers comprehensive patient care while driving innovation through rigorous research and the training of future healthcare professionals across the Southeast region.

Leadership Roles at Vanderbilt Health

  • Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Health System Officer - Jane Freedman
  • The Communications Strategist & Chief Executive Officer, Vanderbilt Health System - Kathy Rivers
  • Vice President, Finance & Divisional Chief Financial Officer, Affiliate Operations - Dominic P.
  • Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer - Cecelia Moore
  • Chief Operating Officer, Children's Ambulatory Services - Chris Lee
  • Chief Operating Officer & Amp Corporate Chief of Staff - John Manning
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Office of - Chad Fitzgerald
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Amy Schoeny
  • Chief of Staff, Corporate Clinical Affairs - Cecelia Theobald
  • Manager & Chief Technology Officer, Post-Award Finance - Charles Maddox
  • Jane Freedman - Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Health System Officer

    Jane Freedman, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Health System Officer at Vanderbilt Health, directs the operational integrity of the entire academic health system. Freedman oversees the integration of clinical services across the Southeast, ensuring that patient care standards remain consistent with the mission of Vanderbilt Health. By aligning departmental goals with long-term institutional growth, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Health System Officer optimizes resource allocation and improves service delivery models. Jane Freedman maintains close collaboration with the board to refine strategic initiatives that support complex medical research and training programs. Through the management of large-scale clinical networks, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Health System Officer drives efficiency and enhances the overall quality of care provided to diverse patient populations. This leadership role requires constant monitoring of system-wide performance metrics to ensure that the organization meets its ambitious health outcomes and academic objectives.
    Jane Freedman

    Kathy Rivers - The Communications Strategist & Chief Executive Officer, Vanderbilt Health System

    Kathy Rivers, the The Communications Strategist & Chief Executive Officer, Vanderbilt Health System at Vanderbilt Health, architects the overarching brand identity and strategic vision for the organization. Rivers manages the public narrative and internal alignment, ensuring that the mission of Vanderbilt Health resonates with stakeholders across the Southeast. As the The Communications Strategist & Chief Executive Officer, Vanderbilt Health System, Kathy Rivers coordinates high-level outreach efforts that highlight the system's contributions to medical research and professional education. By fostering strong relationships with community partners and academic institutions, the The Communications Strategist & Chief Executive Officer, Vanderbilt Health System secures the reputation of the health system as a leader in patient care. This role involves synthesizing complex institutional data into clear, actionable communication strategies that support growth and public trust. Through consistent messaging and strategic positioning, Rivers ensures that the organization remains at the forefront of the competitive healthcare landscape.

    Dominic P. - Vice President, Finance & Divisional Chief Financial Officer, Affiliate Operations

    Dominic P., the Vice President, Finance & Divisional Chief Financial Officer, Affiliate Operations at Vanderbilt Health, oversees the fiscal health of affiliate clinical networks. P. manages complex budgetary processes and financial reporting to ensure the long-term sustainability of regional operations. As the Vice President, Finance & Divisional Chief Financial Officer, Affiliate Operations, Dominic P. evaluates investment opportunities and cost-saving measures that align with the strategic goals of Vanderbilt Health. By providing rigorous financial oversight, the Vice President, Finance & Divisional Chief Financial Officer, Affiliate Operations supports the expansion of clinical services and the acquisition of new medical technologies. This role involves frequent collaboration with executive leadership to balance operational needs with fiscal responsibility. Through the meticulous analysis of revenue cycles and expenditure patterns, P. drives financial stability across the affiliate portfolio. The Vice President, Finance & Divisional Chief Financial Officer, Affiliate Operations ensures that all financial activities support the organization's commitment to high-quality patient care and research.

    Cecelia Moore - Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer

    Cecelia Moore, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at Vanderbilt Health, directs the capital structure and financial planning for the entire academic health system. Moore manages the treasury functions, including debt management and investment strategies, to ensure the organization maintains a robust financial foundation. As the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, Cecelia Moore oversees the preparation of comprehensive financial statements and ensures compliance with regulatory standards. By monitoring cash flow and liquidity, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer provides the necessary resources for Vanderbilt Health to invest in cutting-edge research and facility upgrades. This leadership role requires strategic foresight to navigate the complexities of the healthcare economy while maintaining fiscal discipline. Through the management of institutional assets, Moore supports the long-term growth and stability of the health system. The Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer works closely with the board to align financial performance with the core mission of delivering exceptional patient care.

    Chris Lee - Chief Operating Officer, Children's Ambulatory Services

    Chris Lee, the Chief Operating Officer, Children's Ambulatory Services at Vanderbilt Health, manages the daily operations of pediatric outpatient facilities. Lee directs the expansion of ambulatory care networks, ensuring that specialized medical services reach families throughout the region. As the Chief Operating Officer, Children's Ambulatory Services, Chris Lee optimizes patient flow and clinical throughput to reduce wait times and improve access to care. By implementing advanced scheduling technologies and staffing models, the Chief Operating Officer, Children's Ambulatory Services enhances the operational efficiency of pediatric clinics. This leadership position requires constant coordination with medical directors to maintain high standards of safety and service quality. Through the strategic management of outpatient resources, Lee supports the broader mission of Vanderbilt Health to provide world-class care to children. The Chief Operating Officer, Children's Ambulatory Services continuously evaluates performance data to drive improvements in clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction across all ambulatory sites.

    John Manning - Chief Operating Officer & Amp Corporate Chief of Staff

    John Manning, the Chief Operating Officer & Amp Corporate Chief of Staff at Vanderbilt Health, directs the daily operational activities and administrative functions of the health system. Manning oversees the integration of clinical and corporate services, ensuring that Vanderbilt Health operates with maximum efficiency. As the Chief Operating Officer & Amp Corporate Chief of Staff, John Manning manages the execution of strategic plans and coordinates the efforts of various departments to achieve institutional goals. By optimizing operational workflows and resource utilization, the Chief Operating Officer & Amp Corporate Chief of Staff supports the delivery of high-quality patient care. This leadership role involves managing complex organizational challenges and ensuring that all administrative processes align with the mission of the health system. Through the oversight of daily operations, Manning drives performance improvements and maintains the high standards expected of an academic medical center. The Chief Operating Officer & Amp Corporate Chief of Staff works to ensure that all departments function in harmony to support the organization's growth.

    Chad Fitzgerald - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Office of

    Chad Fitzgerald, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Office of at Vanderbilt Health, directs the operational strategy for the executive office and its associated functions. Fitzgerald manages the implementation of high-level initiatives that support the mission of Vanderbilt Health across all clinical and academic divisions. As the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Office of, Chad Fitzgerald oversees the coordination of system-wide projects and ensures that executive directives are executed with precision. By streamlining administrative processes and enhancing organizational communication, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Office of improves the overall effectiveness of the leadership team. This role involves managing complex operational challenges and fostering collaboration across the health system. Through the strategic oversight of the executive office, Fitzgerald drives performance and supports the long-term goals of the organization. The Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Office of continuously evaluates operational metrics to ensure that the health system remains agile and responsive to the needs of patients and staff.

    Amy Schoeny - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Amy Schoeny, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Vanderbilt Health, architects the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies for the organization. Schoeny manages the recruitment of top-tier medical professionals and administrative staff, ensuring that Vanderbilt Health maintains a high-performing team. As the Chief Human Resources Officer, Amy Schoeny oversees employee engagement programs, benefits administration, and professional training initiatives. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and excellence, the Chief Human Resources Officer supports the retention of skilled personnel who drive the system's clinical and research success. This role involves developing policies that promote workplace safety and professional growth across all departments. Through the strategic management of human capital, Schoeny ensures that the organization remains an employer of choice in the competitive healthcare sector. The Chief Human Resources Officer continuously evaluates workforce trends to align staffing levels with the evolving needs of the academic health system and its patient population.

    Cecelia Theobald - Chief of Staff, Corporate Clinical Affairs

    Cecelia Theobald, the Chief of Staff, Corporate Clinical Affairs at Vanderbilt Health, coordinates the administrative and clinical functions that support the organization's medical leadership. Theobald manages the flow of information between clinical departments and the executive team, ensuring that strategic decisions are implemented effectively. As the Chief of Staff, Corporate Clinical Affairs, Cecelia Theobald facilitates cross-departmental collaboration to streamline patient care processes and improve clinical outcomes. By overseeing special projects and high-priority initiatives, the Chief of Staff, Corporate Clinical Affairs ensures that Vanderbilt Health meets its operational targets. This role requires a deep understanding of clinical workflows and the ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships. Through the coordination of corporate clinical affairs, Theobald supports the alignment of medical practices with the system's broader mission. The Chief of Staff, Corporate Clinical Affairs continuously monitors clinical performance to identify opportunities for process improvement and enhanced service delivery across the entire health system.

    Charles Maddox - Manager & Chief Technology Officer, Post-Award Finance

    Charles Maddox, the Manager & Chief Technology Officer, Post-Award Finance at Vanderbilt Health, directs the technological infrastructure supporting financial management for research grants and clinical awards. Maddox oversees the implementation of digital tools that track funding utilization and ensure compliance with institutional and federal regulations. As the Manager & Chief Technology Officer, Post-Award Finance, Charles Maddox optimizes data systems to provide accurate financial reporting for the research community at Vanderbilt Health. By integrating advanced software solutions, the Manager & Chief Technology Officer, Post-Award Finance enhances the transparency and efficiency of post-award financial processes. This role involves managing technical teams to maintain secure and reliable financial databases. Through the strategic application of technology, Maddox supports the organization's commitment to rigorous research and fiscal accountability. The Manager & Chief Technology Officer, Post-Award Finance continuously updates systems to meet the evolving needs of the academic health system's financial and research operations.
    Charles Maddox

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Vanderbilt Health Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Vanderbilt Health?
    Vanderbilt Health is led by Jane Freedman (Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Health System Officer), along with executives such as Kathy Rivers (The Communications Strategist & Chief Executive Officer, Vanderbilt Health System) and Dominic P. (Vice President, Finance & Divisional Chief Financial Officer, Affiliate Operations).
    Who is part of Vanderbilt Health’s executive team?
    The executive team of Vanderbilt Health includes leaders such as Jane Freedman (Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Health System Officer), Kathy Rivers (The Communications Strategist & Chief Executive Officer, Vanderbilt Health System), Dominic P. (Vice President, Finance & Divisional Chief Financial Officer, Affiliate Operations) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Vanderbilt Health have?
    Vanderbilt Health has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Vanderbilt Health’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Vanderbilt Health includes roles such as Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Health System Officer, The Communications Strategist & Chief Executive Officer, Vanderbilt Health System, Vice President, Finance & Divisional Chief Financial Officer, Affiliate Operations, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, Chief Operating Officer, Children's Ambulatory Services.