Wayne UNC Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Wayne UNC has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, human capital management, and operational excellence.

Focused on delivering comprehensive medical services to eastern North Carolina, Wayne UNC prioritizes patient well-being through innovative care solutions and accessible health resources.

Leadership Roles at Wayne UNC

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Jessie Tucker
  • Chief Financial Officer - Gregory Jones
  • Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Bill Thoma
  • Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer - Howard Whitfield
  • Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer - Douglas Harrison
  • Jessie Tucker - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Jessie Tucker, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Wayne UNC, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire medical facility. Tucker manages the alignment of clinical departments with the broader mission of providing high-quality health care across eastern North Carolina. By coordinating with the Board and senior leadership, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that cancer care, heart services, and surgical units maintain rigorous standards of excellence. This leadership role involves driving organizational growth while implementing digital solutions to improve patient scheduling and overall experience. Jessie Tucker maintains a focus on long-term sustainability and community health outcomes. Through constant evaluation of medical service delivery, the President & Chief Executive Officer fosters an environment of innovation. Ultimately, Tucker secures the operational integrity of the hospital system, ensuring that every department meets the evolving needs of the regional patient population.

    Gregory Jones - Chief Financial Officer

    Gregory Jones, the Chief Financial Officer at Wayne UNC, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the organization. Jones oversees the allocation of capital resources to support critical departments like neurology, orthopedics, and rehabilitation services. By analyzing revenue cycles and operational costs, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that the hospital maintains the financial stability required to invest in advanced medical technology. This role involves collaborating with other executive leaders to optimize resource distribution across the facility. Gregory Jones monitors economic trends to mitigate risks while maximizing the efficiency of health care delivery. Through precise financial forecasting, the Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of primary care and women's services. Ultimately, Jones maintains the fiscal discipline necessary to sustain high-quality patient care, ensuring that the hospital remains a reliable provider of essential medical services within the eastern North Carolina region.

    Bill Thoma - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Bill Thoma, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Wayne UNC, manages the long-term financial strategy and investment portfolio of the institution. Thoma oversees the procurement of medical equipment and the funding of infrastructure projects that enhance the facility's capacity for vascular services and cancer care. By evaluating the financial impact of new medical technologies, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures that the hospital remains competitive in the regional market. This role involves coordinating with the Board to establish fiscal policies that support sustainable growth. Bill Thoma monitors the financial performance of various service lines to identify opportunities for cost reduction and revenue enhancement. Through rigorous financial oversight, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer maintains the economic foundation of the hospital. Ultimately, Thoma secures the resources necessary to provide advanced medical care to the eastern North Carolina population.

    Howard Whitfield - Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer

    Howard Whitfield, the Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer at Wayne UNC, directs the daily clinical and administrative workflows across the hospital. Whitfield oversees the integration of digital whiteboards and scheduling systems to streamline patient flow and improve service delivery. By managing the logistics of surgery, orthopedics, and primary care units, the Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer ensures that all departments function with maximum efficiency. This leadership role involves coordinating with other executives to resolve operational bottlenecks and enhance the quality of patient care. Howard Whitfield drives process improvements that reduce wait times and increase the accessibility of medical services. Through meticulous oversight of facility operations, the Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer maintains high standards of safety and performance. Ultimately, Whitfield optimizes the internal systems of the hospital to ensure that every patient receives timely and effective care.
    Howard Whitfield

    Douglas Harrison - Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Douglas Harrison, the Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer at Wayne UNC, directs the talent acquisition and workforce development strategies for the entire medical staff. Harrison oversees the recruitment of specialized medical professionals to support departments ranging from surgery to therapy. By fostering a culture of professional growth and employee engagement, the Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the hospital retains top-tier talent capable of delivering exceptional patient care. This leadership role involves designing comprehensive training programs and managing organizational policies that align with the mission of the facility. Douglas Harrison drives initiatives that promote workplace safety and staff satisfaction. Through strategic workforce planning, the Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer supports the operational needs of the hospital. Ultimately, Harrison builds a resilient team that consistently meets the complex health care demands of the community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Wayne UNC Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Wayne UNC?
    Wayne UNC is led by Jessie Tucker (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Gregory Jones (Chief Financial Officer) and Bill Thoma (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Wayne UNC’s executive team?
    The executive team of Wayne UNC includes leaders such as Jessie Tucker (President & Chief Executive Officer), Gregory Jones (Chief Financial Officer), Bill Thoma (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Wayne UNC have?
    Wayne UNC has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Wayne UNC’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Wayne UNC includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Vice President, Operations & Chief Operating Officer, Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer.