Nashville, Tenn.-based Ardent Health has named Dave Caspers as its new COO.
Mr. Caspers will oversee operations across the organization’s 30 hospitals and 280 care sites in six states. In his role, he will focus on strategic growth initiatives and enhancing operational efficiencies at an enterprise level. He will also lead efforts to scale the company’s consumer-focused operating model across new and existing markets, according to a March 31 news release.
Most recently, Mr. Caspers served as vice president of omnichannel operations at Walmart Health, overseeing in-store clinics and virtual health services. Before that, he held several leadership roles at Phoenix-based Banner Health, including vice president of healthcare operations, where he managed 30 hospitals, 350 clinics and 60 urgent care centers. He also led retail healthcare operations at Target.
Along with Mr. Caspers’ appointment, Ardent announced the promotion of three senior leaders:
- Anika Gardenhire, RN, has been named chief digital and transformation officer, expanding her role to lead digital and business transformation initiatives. A registered nurse, Ms. Gardenhire joined Ardent in 2023 as chief digital and information officer and will continue to oversee technology, consumer services and enterprise project management.
- Rebecca Kirkham has been promoted to senior vice president and chief communications and corporate affairs officer. Since joining Ardent in 2021, Ms. Kirkham has led internal and external communications, reputation and issues management and culture-building initiatives.
- Reed Smith has been elevated to senior vice president and chief consumer officer, maintaining oversight of consumer experience and engagement, including digital, marketing, branding, and contact center strategies. He will continue to report to Ms. Gardenhire in his expanded role.
