Ardent Health Names Dave Caspers as New COO: A Strategic Move for Growth

In a significant move that underscores its commitment to strategic growth and operational excellence, Ardent Health has appointed Dave Caspers as its new Chief Operating Officer. This appointment comes at a pivotal time for the healthcare provider, which operates 30 hospitals and 280 sites of care across six states. Caspers' extensive experience in retail healthcare and health system operations positions him well to drive Ardent Health's consumer-centric operating model to new heights.

Caspers brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles at Walmart Health, where he oversaw in-store clinics and virtual health services, and at Banner Health, where he managed a vast network of healthcare facilities. His background in creating scale and operational synergies within complex health systems and retail health environments will be instrumental in executing Ardent Health's strategic growth initiatives.



One of the key areas where Caspers' expertise will be crucial is in scaling Ardent Health's consumer-centric operating model. His role at Walmart Health, where he integrated various healthcare delivery channels to provide a seamless consumer experience, demonstrates his ability to optimize and scale operations. This experience is directly applicable to Ardent Health's goal of enhancing the consumer experience and engagement, including digital, marketing, branding, and contact center strategies.

Caspers' leadership at Banner Health, where he managed 30 hospitals, 350 clinics, and 60 urgent care centers, shows his capability to handle the operational complexities of a multi-facility healthcare system. This experience will be crucial in overseeing Ardent Health's extensive network of healthcare facilities. His role at Target Corporation, where he led retail healthcare operations, further highlights his ability to manage consumer-focused healthcare services, which aligns with Ardent Health's mission to make healthcare better and easier to access.

Ardent Health's President and CEO, Marty Bonick, expressed his enthusiasm for Caspers' appointment, stating, "His extensive experience creating scale and operational synergies within complex health systems and retail health environments will be instrumental as we continue to execute on our strategic growth priorities." This sentiment is echoed by Caspers himself, who said, "I am thrilled to join Ardent Health at such a significant time in the company’s growth. Ardent has a proven track record of delivering high-quality care with a focus on making healthcare better for the patient, the providers and team members, and the communities it serves."



In addition to Caspers' appointment, Ardent Health has also promoted three senior leaders to new roles. Anika Gardenhire, a registered nurse, has been elevated to chief digital and transformation officer, reflecting the evolving scope of her team’s work in support of digital and business transformation initiatives. Rebecca Kirkham has been promoted to senior vice president and chief communications and corporate affairs officer, leading communications initiatives, reputation and issues management, and culture-building projects. 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.

These promotions, along with Caspers' appointment, signal Ardent Health's commitment to driving strategic growth and operational excellence. As the company continues to expand its footprint and improve operational efficiencies, Caspers' leadership will be crucial in scaling Ardent Health's consumer-centric operating model and delivering high-quality care to its patients.