In the healthcare talent acquisition space, visionary leaders play a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s future. This article delves into the profiles of 40 influential leaders, each contributing unique expertise to attract top talent, elevate patient care, and drive organizational success.
From Vice Presidents directing editorial strategies to Chief Human Resources Officers fostering candidate and employee empowerment, here are the healthcare recruitment influencers you should be following on LinkedIn, in no particular order.
1. Molly Gamble – Vice President of Editorial, Becker’s Healthcare
Molly Gamble, Vice President of Editorial at Becker’s Healthcare, boasts over a decade of journalistic experience. Her multifaceted career encompasses roles as a reporter, columnist, editor, managing editor, and editor-in-chief. At Becker’s Healthcare, Molly collaborates closely with a team of communication professionals to provide healthcare executives with the crucial news they require for informed decision-making.
2. Jessica Cole – President & CEO, Becker’s Healthcare
Jessica Cole, the President & CEO of Becker’s Healthcare, directs the strategic growth and vision of one of the healthcare industry’s leading multimedia, event, and publishing companies. With a robust 17-year tenure at Becker’s Healthcare, Jessica has successfully expanded the company’s portfolio, which reaches millions of healthcare professionals and decision-makers across diverse platforms. Her leadership at the organization exemplifies a commitment to innovation and strategic development.
3. Justin Steinman – Chief Marketing Officer at Therapy Brands
As the Chief Marketing Officer at Therapy Brands, Justin Steinman drives the strategy, development, and execution of comprehensive marketing and communication initiatives. Prior to Therapy Brands, Justin worked at Definitive Healthcare, a healthcare data company. He holds an MBA from MIT Sloan School of Management.
4. Matt Rimer – Managing Partner at RogueHire
Matt Rimer, Managing Partner at RogueHire and Board Member at the National Association for Health Care Recruitment (NAHCR), possesses a history of building successful teams in growth-oriented companies. Specializing in cost-effective Talent Acquisition outcomes, Matt’s expertise extends to designing, launching, and operating recruiting programs that prioritize a positive candidate experience. His podcast, “Talent Acquisition In The Trenches: Healthcare,” provides valuable insights into the world of healthcare recruitment.
5. Susan Burke – Vice President, Talent Acquisition at PeaceHealth
With over 25 years of experience in enhancing and leading talent acquisition programs, Susan Burke serves as the Vice President of Talent Acquisition at PeaceHealth. Her extensive background spans various industries, with a notable focus on healthcare and technology. Susan’s commitment to excellence is evident through her certifications, including Advanced Internet Recruitment Strategies (AIRS) and Professional Human Resources (PHR).
6. Michael Krug, SPHR – Chief Human Resources Officer at Hoag Health System
Michael Krug, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Hoag Health System, is dedicated to empowering the organization’s people for excellence. With a belief that investing in employees is key to success, Michael fosters a culture where every staff member feels valued, motivated, and inspired. His commitment to cultivating a positive work environment underscores his role in steering Hoag Health System’s human resources strategy.
7. Ryan Dull – Founder & CEO at Sagemark HR
As the Founder & CEO of Sagemark HR, Ryan Dull leads a firm dedicated to scaling and modernizing recruiting practices for efficient talent acquisition. Leveraging his experience in TA and HR roles at prominent organizations, including Fiserv and CUNA Mutual Group, Ryan specializes in recruiting optimization and serves as a TA Technology Advisor.
8. Theresa Mazzaro RN CHCR RACR – Recruitment Manager at Fairfax Radiology Centers
Theresa Mazzaro, Recruitment Manager at Fairfax Radiology Centers, brings a unique background as a Registered Nurse with over 30 years of experience. Transitioning to healthcare recruitment in 2005, Theresa has expertise in recruiting for a wide range of roles, from Nurses to Senior Solutions Architects to Physicians. She is a sought-after speaker at industry conferences, including ASHHRA and NAHCR.
9. Jacquie Liddell – Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Mass General Brigham
With over 19 years of experience in Talent Acquisition, Jacquie Liddell serves as a Vice President at Mass General Brigham. Jacquie excels in developing critical sourcing, recruitment, and onboarding strategies, showcasing her talent for implementing new recruitment technologies to improve hiring outcomes across her organization. Her data and analytics skills contribute to driving better outcomes for both leadership and the Mass General Brigham Talent Acquisition team.
10. Jim Graham – Vice President, Talent Acquisition at Phoenix Children’s
Jim Graham, Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Phoenix Children’s, brings over 25 years of leadership experience in recruitment, strategic sourcing, and talent attraction. His creative thinking and “can-do” work ethic have driven success at various healthcare organizations, including Munson Healthcare, HonorHealth, and SSM Health. Jim’s expertise extends to developing and managing multi-million dollar budgets and fostering partnerships with senior executive leadership.
11. Reese Gable – System Vice President, Talent Acquisition at Trinity Health
As System Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Trinity Health, Reese Gable has over 16 years of experience as a healthcare recruiting leader. Recognized for instituting new recruitment technology, processes, and workflows, Reese has successfully improved hiring outcomes across the organizations he’s worked at. Prior to Trinity Health, Reese worked at Bon Secours Mercy Health, EDIS Group, Fifth Third Bank, Randstad USA, and other top organizations.
12. John Higgins – Vice President, Talent Management for Essentia Health
John Higgins, the Vice President of Talent Management for Essentia Health, is renowned for his transformative talent practices in healthcare HR. With a background at top employers like Sanford Health and Fairview Health Services, John focuses on expanding and strengthening healthcare organizations’ internal and external talent pools. His servant leadership approach has been pivotal in fostering a culture of talent excellence.
13. Michael Dowling – President & CEO, Northwell Health
As the President & CEO of Northwell Health, Michael Dowling proudly leads New York’s largest integrated healthcare system and private employer. A healthcare optimist with a master’s degree in Social Work from Fordham University, Michael draws inspiration from colleagues and the communities they serve. In 2017, he was Grand Marshal at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Manhattan.
14. Matthew Craven, CSM, RACR – Director of Talent Acquisition at City of Hope
Matthew Craven, the Director of Talent Acquisition at City of Hope, embodies a servant-leader philosophy in connecting, building trust, and establishing relationships. With a strong background in managing the implementation of recruitment technologies, Matthew puts a focus on quantifying and validating his team’s efforts in Talent Acquisition. His experience at prestigious employers like PeaceHealth and Schneider Electric underscores his expertise.
15. Kurt Scott – Founder & CEO at the Physician Leadership Career Network
With over 35 years of experience in physician and physician executive recruitment, Kurt Scott is the Founder & CEO of the Physician Leadership Career Network. Recognizing a need for a space for physician leaders and healthcare organizations to connect, learn, and grow together, Kurt launched the network in 2019. He was a past president of the Association for Advancing Physician and Provider Recruitment (AAPPR).
16. Justin McComber, PHR, CIR – Vice President Talent Acquisition at NeuroPsychiatric Hospitals
As the Vice President of Talent Acquisition at NeuroPsychiatric Hospitals, Justin McComber leads the strategy and execution of hiring exceptional talent for one of the largest specialty hospital systems in the US. With over a decade of healthcare recruiting experience, Justin emphasizes full-cycle, executive, and high-volume recruiting models. His passion lies in connecting professionals to their purpose and supporting the growth and mission of NeuroPsychiatric Hospitals.
17. Shawn Anderson, MBA – VP, HR Business Partner Lead at Atrium Health
Shawn Anderson, VP, HR Business Partner Lead at Atrium Health, is an HR leader with a history of success in fast-paced healthcare and tech recruitment environments. Skilled in talent acquisition, business development, and organizational development, Shawn is passionate about leadership and fostering an environment of support, encouragement, and accountability. He has previously worked at Ochsner Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and other prestigious organizations.
18. Jen Azuri-Humm – Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Emory Healthcare
Jen Azuri-Humm, the Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Emory Healthcare, brings over 16 years of operational and strategic expertise to the healthcare and technology industries. With a focus on developing high-performing teams and inclusive cultures, Jen leverages her experience in strategy, analytics, workforce planning, and talent acquisition to optimize performance and results across Emory Healthcare.
19. Steven Walesch – Talent Acquisition & Recruitment Marketing at MUSC Health
In his role as Talent Acquisition & Recruitment Marketing at MUSC Health, Steven Walesch is dedicated to creating positive candidate and employee experiences. With a track record of success in HR, marketing, and sales, Steven has demonstrated his ability to lead teams responsible for winning and managing high-profile national and regional accounts. He previously worked at Ochsner Health, AdventHealth Central Florida, and other top organizations.
20. Kate Taylor – Vice President, Talent Acquisition at Memorial Sloan Kettering
Kate Taylor, Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Memorial Sloan Kettering, brings over 17 years of experience in shaping organizations through attracting, retaining, and developing top-tier talent. Her strategic mindset and hands-on approach enable her to design and execute comprehensive talent acquisition strategies aligned with organizational growth objectives. Kate thrives on building high-performing teams and fostering a culture of innovation and inclusion.
21. Scott Foster – Director of Executive and Provider Recruitment at Phoenix Children’s
Scott Foster, Director of Executive and Provider Recruitment at Phoenix Children’s, is a results-driven Talent Acquisition and Human Resources Leader. With a strong history in the healthcare industry, Scott excels in coaching, team building, and talent management. His expertise also includes leadership development, college recruiting, management, and applicant tracking systems. He previously worked at GardaWorld, SSM Health, and other top organizations.
22. Carey Goryl, CAE, CPRP – Chief Executive Officer at the Association for Advancing Physician and Provider Recruitment (AAPPR)
As the Chief Executive Officer of the Association for Advancing Physician and Provider Recruitment (AAPPR), Carey Goryl is an expert in physician recruitment and retention strategies. The AAPPR serves as a platform for physician and provider recruitment leaders to connect, learn, and advance their careers. With close to 2,000 members, Carey fosters thought leadership on all topics related to the healthcare recruitment space.
23. Brian Emerson – Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Acadia Healthcare
Brian Emerson, Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Acadia Healthcare, specializes in talent acquisition strategy, management, executive recruiting, and leadership development. With a focus on diversity and inclusion strategy, Brian’s expertise spans various roles at prestigious employers, including ATI Physical Therapy and Brookdale.
24. Jeff DeMordaunt – VP Talent Strategy and Acquisition at Ardent Health Services
Jeff DeMordaunt, the VP of Talent Strategy and Acquisition at Ardent Health Services, has three decades of industry experience. Before Ardent, Jeff spent over a decade at HCA. Follow him for insights on talent acquisition strategy.
25. Heidie Kozarski, CHCR – Talent Acquisition Consultant at Kaiser Permanente
As a Talent Acquisition Consultant at Kaiser Permanente, Heidie Kozarski brings a wealth of experience in hospital and healthcare recruitment. Her role as NAHCR Board Member – Marketing & Communications Director demonstrates her commitment to advancing the healthcare recruitment industry. Heidie’s expertise includes performance improvement, deferred compensation, Taleo, HR policies, and college recruiting.
26. Luke Carignan, PHR, SHRM-CP – Director, Healthcare Enterprise Sales at Phenom and Co-Host at The Bo & Luke Show and ASHHRA Podcast
Luke Carignan, Director of Healthcare Enterprise Sales at Phenom, is also a co-host at The Bo & Luke Show and ASHHRA Podcast. Luke has over 15 years of healthcare talent acquisition and technology experience and loves all things Healthcare HR. He was previously CEO at Terradin and has worked at top organizations like Monster, ADP, and Aflac.
27. Helene Kennedy, SHRM-SCP – Vice President of Talent Acquisition and Workforce Development at MaineHealth
Helene Kennedy, SHRM-SCP, Vice President of Talent Acquisition and Workforce Development at MaineHealth, leads a team dedicated to attracting and retaining top talent. With over 30 years of healthcare leadership experience, Helene excels in setting strategic visions, leveraging workforce analytics, and fostering innovation. Follow her for valuable insights on healthcare talent acquisition.
28. Carrie Boysen – Vice President Talent Acquisition at Baylor Scott & White Health
Carrie Boysen, Vice President Talent Acquisition at Baylor Scott & White Health, has over 20 years of experience in recruiting and talent acquisition. Her expertise includes relationship building, sourcing, recruitment and retention strategy, and recruitment marketing. Before Baylor Scott & White Health, Carrie worked at top organizations such as Schumacher Group, Alorica, West Asset Management, and Nebraska Methodist Health System.
29. Aaron Jones – System Director, Talent Acquisition at Baptist Memorial Health Care
Aaron Jones, System Director, Talent Acquisition at Baptist Memorial Health Care, is a visionary Talent Acquisition and Recruiting Leader with 19 years of expertise across diverse industries including healthcare and technology. Renowned for strategic leadership, he excels in team empowerment, process optimization, and candidate experience enhancement. Prior to Baptist Memorial Health Care, Aaron worked at TALK, Boston Scientific, BJC HealthCare, and other top organizations.
30. Trevor Strauss, FACHE – Vice President, Business Development at HWL
Trevor Strauss, FACHE, Vice President of Business Development at HWL, brings people and technology together to empower human capital strategies. Trevor excels in strategic development, sales, change management, coaching, and team leadership. Committed to personal growth and mentorship, he fosters excellence in himself and his teams, enabling HWL and their clients to succeed.
31. Stacey Sanchez, DVP of Talent Acquisition at Gentiva
Stacey Sanchez, DVP of Talent Acquisition at Gentiva, leads a renowned family of hospice and personal care providers with 430+ locations across 36 states. With a background in psychology and experience at top companies like Best Buy and Verizon, Sanchez excels in hiring, clinical research, and college recruiting. Based in Atlanta, Gentiva offers compassionate care to help patients and families navigate serious illness with dignity and support. Sanchez is a graduate of New Mexico State University.
32. Scott Sell, CIR, Chief Talent Acquisition Officer at Mercy
Scott Sell brings over 20 years of talent acquisition expertise to his role as Chief Talent Acquisition Officer at Mercy. With a diverse background spanning technology, executive search, hospitality, and healthcare, Sell excels in building and managing high-performing teams. Renowned for aligning recruitment strategies with organizational needs, he prioritizes operational excellence and the candidate experience. Sell’s specialties include recruiting, employment management, and team development.
33. Phil Strazzulla, Founder of Select Software Reviews
Although Phil Strazzulla, Founder of Select Software Reviews, doesn’t work directly in healthcare recruitment, his company enables healthcare TA leaders to evaluate HR and recruiting software effectively. Phil is committed to advancing the People/HR/Recruiting function through knowledge-sharing and community-building. He holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and International Business from New York University.
34. Anthony Scarpino, Vice President Talent Acquisition at National Health Care Associates
Anthony Scarpino, Vice President Talent Acquisition at National Health Care Associates, is a seasoned leader dedicated to talent development and innovation. With expertise in talent attraction strategy, candidate experience, and process optimization, Scarpino drives impactful business outcomes. A versatile communicator and continuous learner, he fosters collaborative relationships, promoting excellence in HR strategy and employer branding.
35. Chenae (Graham) Burke, Vice President, Talent Acquisition at Envision Healthcare
Chenae (Graham) Burke, Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Envision Healthcare, has over 20 years of HR and talent acquisition experience. With a strong track record in leadership, communication, and problem-solving, she drives success in achieving organizational goals. Specializing in talent management and strategic planning, Burke collaborates closely with stakeholders to implement effective HR and TA initiatives. She has previously held roles at GHR Consulting Group, JPS Health Network, and Carolinas Healthcare System.
36. Heidi Ofelt, Senior Recruiter at St. Luke’s Health System
Heidi Ofelt, Senior Recruiter at St. Luke’s Health System, plays a vital role at Idaho’s largest not-for-profit health system. With a dedicated staff of over 15,000, St. Luke’s mission is to improve community health. Drawing from experience at Amedisys, Providence St. Joseph Health, and JP Morgan Chase, Ofelt brings expertise in human resources, talent acquisition, and business administration.
37. David Crawford, Vice President of Talent Acquisition at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
David Crawford, Vice President of Talent Acquisition at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, is a seasoned recruitment leader with a passion for putting patients first. With extensive experience in leading recruiting strategies and fostering a commitment to excellence, he has successfully managed experienced professional, campus/graduate, and diversity recruiting initiatives. David is recognized for his strategic mindset and ability to drive success through workforce planning, retention, and employment branding.
38. Alen Brcic, SVP & Chief Human Resources Officer at Methodist Health System
Alen Brcic, SVP & Chief Human Resources Officer at Methodist Health System, has almost 20 years of servant leadership experience. Known for empowering teams and scaling enterprises, he excels in creating a consumer-driven HR operating model, digital strategy, and HR transformation. His colleagues value his progressive, driven, and analytical expertise. He has served in leadership roles at other top healthcare organizations, including Mercyhealth, Novant Health, and Vanderbilt Health.
39. Dr. DeLancey Johnson, FACHE, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, sHRBP, SWP, LDSS, SVP, Associate Chief Talent Officer at Parkland Hospital
Dr. DeLancey Johnson, SVP, Associate Chief Talent Officer at Parkland Hospital, brings over 20 years of HR and Talent Management expertise to his role, overseeing quality-based HR programs. Certified in various HR specialties, he’s a member of ACHENTX and serves as an At-Large Board Member at ASHHRA. With a DBA and MBA, he leads Talent Management to align with Parkland’s mission and vision, ensuring operational excellence.
40. Anthony Gentile – Managing Partner at Adfire Health
Anthony Gentile is a Managing Partner at Adfire Health, a full-service healthcare recruitment marketing firm. In his role, Anthony oversees Sales, Marketing, and Product. Anthony has over 20 years of experience in the healthcare human capital and recruitment technology space. Anthony holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Fordham University and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Psychology from Columbia University.
Anthony is a regular healthcare recruitment speaker at industry-leading conferences, including the National Association for Health Care Recruitment (NAHCR), the American Society for Health Care Human Resources Administration (ASHHRA), and the Association for Advancing Physician and Provider Recruitment (AAPPR).
Adfire Health provides healthcare recruitment marketing solutions that help employers inspire, engage, and nurture candidates. With over 20 years of experience, we are continuously evolving our strategies to improve not only our clients’​ lives but the lives of the clinical talent they’re looking to hire. To get in touch, click here.
