As the leader of one of the top rated healthcare systems, Mr. Van Gorder has guided Scripps Health for 26 years. He expanded Scripps from a $1 billion group of hospitals with 55 days cash on hand to a $5 billion integrated health system with more than 400 days cash on hand. The system boasts 17,800 employees and over 3,500 affiliated physicians. His focus on a strong organizational culture, transparency and career development earned Scripps a place on Fortune magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” list for 18 years. His leadership academy turns middle managers into leaders, with graduates moving into higher management and executive positions at Scripps Health and nationwide. Equally committed to helping physicians expand their clinical acumen with leadership knowledge, experience and understanding of the issues facing healthcare delivery, Mr. Van Gorder is known for listening and accepting 100% of his physician leadership cabinet recommendations. Among his countless innovations is the Scripps Health dyad leadership model, which pairs administrators with physicians. A former police officer whose public service began after a near-fatal injury in the line of duty, he brings a unique perspective rooted in resilience, teamwork and service. As a San Diego County reserve assistant sheriff, he led Scripps’ medical response team to support Hurricane Katrina, Haiti and Nepal earthquakes. Past American College of Healthcare Executives chair and California Commission on Emergency Medical Services appointee, he received the merican College of Healthcare Executives “Gold Medal Award” for leadership and community contributions.
