Vitalant Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Vitalant has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, philanthropy, human resources, regional operations, and medical oversight.

Driven by a commitment to saving lives, Vitalant inspires communities to transform lives through the selfless act of donating blood, supplying comprehensive transfusion medicine services for patients in need.

Leadership Roles at Vitalant

  • Chief Executive Officer - Michael Fuller
  • President, Vitalant Foundation - Katie Cobb
  • Division President, Vitalant (South) - James Dugger
  • Executive Vice President & Chief People Officer - J. Ocasio
  • Division Chief Medical Officer - Paul Eastvold
  • Michael Fuller - Chief Executive Officer

    Michael Fuller, the Chief Executive Officer at Vitalant, directs the organization's overarching strategy and operational execution. Fuller guides Vitalant's mission to supply comprehensive transfusion medicine services, ensuring hospitals and healthcare partners receive critical support for patients. This leadership involves setting the strategic direction for community engagement and blood donation initiatives, inspiring local communities to serve others. Fuller's focus remains on driving organizational growth and impact across the national blood service network. The Chief Executive Officer ensures Vitalant's continued leadership in transfusion medicine, upholding the highest standards of care and operational efficiency. Michael Fuller's strategic vision propels Vitalant's commitment to transforming lives through the selfless act of donating blood.

    Katie Cobb - President, Vitalant Foundation

    Katie Cobb, the President, Vitalant Foundation at Vitalant, spearheads philanthropic efforts and fundraising initiatives. Cobb cultivates donor relationships and secures essential resources to support Vitalant's critical mission of supplying transfusion medicine services. The President, Vitalant Foundation oversees the strategic development and execution of campaigns designed to inspire community involvement and increase blood donations. This role is pivotal in ensuring the financial sustainability of Vitalant's operations, enabling the organization to serve patients effectively. Cobb's leadership drives the foundation's capacity to expand its reach and impact, fostering a culture of generosity. Through dedicated stewardship, Katie Cobb ensures the Vitalant Foundation maximizes its contribution to saving lives and transforming communities.

    James Dugger - Division President, Vitalant (South)

    James Dugger, the Division President, Vitalant (South) at Vitalant, directs operational leadership and strategic growth within the southern division. Dugger ensures the seamless delivery of comprehensive transfusion medicine services to hospitals and healthcare partners across the region, supporting patients in need. This leadership position involves overseeing all functional areas within the division, driving efficiency and effectiveness in blood collection and distribution. Dugger's focus is on strengthening community engagement and inspiring local participation in blood donation. The Division President, Vitalant (South) plays a crucial role in expanding Vitalant's reach and impact, fostering a culture of service. James Dugger's operational expertise underpins Vitalant's commitment to transforming lives through selfless acts of donation.

    J. Ocasio - Executive Vice President & Chief People Officer

    J. Ocasio, the Executive Vice President & Chief People Officer at Vitalant, architects the human capital strategy and oversees all aspects of workforce management. Ocasio drives initiatives focused on talent acquisition, employee development, and fostering a positive organizational culture essential for Vitalant's mission of supplying transfusion medicine services. This executive leadership role ensures the effective management of Vitalant's dedicated team, supporting their ability to serve hospitals and healthcare partners. Ocasio's purview includes cultivating an environment that inspires community service and transforms lives through selfless acts like blood donation. The Executive Vice President & Chief People Officer champions employee engagement and retention, critical for maintaining operational excellence. J. Ocasio's strategic approach to people operations strengthens Vitalant's capacity to meet patient needs nationwide.
    J. Ocasio

    Paul Eastvold - Division Chief Medical Officer

    Paul Eastvold, the Division Chief Medical Officer at Vitalant, provides critical medical oversight and strategic guidance for transfusion medicine services. Eastvold ensures the highest standards of patient safety and clinical efficacy across Vitalant's operations, supporting hospitals and healthcare partners. This executive role involves leading medical policy development and implementation, safeguarding the integrity of blood products and transfusion practices. The Division Chief Medical Officer champions medical innovation and best practices, contributing to Vitalant's mission of saving lives. Eastvold's expertise is essential in navigating complex medical challenges and advancing the science of transfusion medicine. Paul Eastvold's dedication to medical excellence reinforces Vitalant's role as a vital community blood service provider.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Vitalant Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Vitalant?
    Vitalant is led by Michael Fuller (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Katie Cobb (President, Vitalant Foundation) and James Dugger (Division President, Vitalant (South)).
    Who is part of Vitalant’s executive team?
    The executive team of Vitalant includes leaders such as Michael Fuller (Chief Executive Officer), Katie Cobb (President, Vitalant Foundation), James Dugger (Division President, Vitalant (South)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Vitalant have?
    Vitalant has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Vitalant’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Vitalant includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President, Vitalant Foundation, Division President, Vitalant (South), Executive Vice President & Chief People Officer, Division Chief Medical Officer.