Damon Brown is a seasoned healthcare executive with over 32 years of experience across hospital operations, financial management, and strategic leadership. His career spans roles from Chief Executive Officer to Vice President, managing complex healthcare systems and driving growth and operational excellence in organizations such as Steward Health Care, Community Health Systems, and HonorHealth. Damon holds an MBA in Healthcare Administration from the University of Colorado Denver and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of North Texas, a combination that has fortified his strategic approach to healthcare management with a solid foundation in financial and operational efficiency.

Currently, Damon serves as Vice President at HonorHealth, operating across Mesa, Tempe, and Florence, Arizona. In this role, he applies his extensive expertise in hospital management to oversee the delivery of high-quality healthcare services, with a focus on improving patient outcomes and optimizing operational processes. His responsibilities encompass aligning hospital services with community needs, expanding service lines, and maintaining strong physician relationships to foster a collaborative, patient-centric environment.

Before joining HonorHealth, Damon held the role of Regional President for Steward Health Care, where he led the Arizona market, including three acute care hospitals, one behavioral health hospital, and associated medical groups. Under his leadership, the Arizona region achieved significant improvements in profitability, quality measures, and service line expansions. Damon’s efforts to streamline operations and reduce costs yielded a 44% increase in EBITDA in his first year, even as the healthcare sector faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also implemented a hospital-based school of nursing, ensuring a sustainable pipeline of skilled healthcare professionals.

Damon’s executive experience includes serving as Project CEO at Community Health Systems, where he oversaw multiple hospitals across various states, focusing on financial and operational turnaround strategies. During his tenure, Damon improved EBITDA by over 95% at Deaconess Hospital in Oklahoma City within six months. His role as interim CEO at several facilities underscored his adaptability and problem-solving skills, as he successfully transitioned hospitals to new leadership, improved operational metrics, and guided facilities through challenging ownership transitions.

Prior to his work with Community Health Systems, Damon was Market CEO for Health Management Associates in Oklahoma. His leadership led to the acquisition and integration of five hospitals in the region, driving them from an annual loss to profitability within a year. Damon’s strategic acumen in aligning healthcare services with regional needs played a critical role in expanding HMA’s market presence in Oklahoma.

Damon’s career has been marked by his commitment to enhancing patient care, operational efficiency, and financial health in all organizations he has served. As CEO at Gateway Regional Medical Center, he increased net revenues by 10% and EBITDA by 36% through careful financial analysis, strategic service line expansions, and fostering strong relationships with medical staff. His hands-on approach to leadership and dedication to continuous improvement have earned him the trust of colleagues and the healthcare community.

Throughout his career, Damon has consistently demonstrated an ability to lead large teams and coordinate cross-functional efforts to achieve shared goals. His expertise in contract negotiation, physician relations, and change management has allowed him to build high-performing, cohesive teams in challenging environments. He emphasizes transparency and collaboration, qualities that have been instrumental in achieving lasting results.

Damon’s impact extends beyond his professional achievements. He has served on numerous hospital boards, bringing his leadership and insights to organizations focused on advancing healthcare quality and accessibility. Active with the American College of Healthcare Executives and the Texas Society of CPAs, Damon stays engaged with industry developments and networking opportunities to continually enhance his contributions to healthcare.

With a personal commitment to integrity, Damon balances his professional accomplishments with personal passions for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and biking. These pursuits reflect his belief in resilience, persistence, and the value of balance, qualities he brings to both his professional and personal life.

Character:

Damon exemplifies integrity and resilience, making ethical leadership the foundation of his approach to healthcare management. His commitment to transparency and collaboration has earned the trust of colleagues and stakeholders across the healthcare industry.

Knowledge:

With over 32 years of experience and an educational background in accounting and healthcare administration, Damon possesses a deep understanding of hospital operations, financial management, and strategic planning. His expertise allows him to navigate the complexities of healthcare with a strong analytical and operational focus.

Strategic:

Damon has a proven track record of driving significant financial and operational turnarounds by aligning resources and services with community needs. His ability to identify growth opportunities and execute cost-saving strategies has consistently improved the performance and profitability of the healthcare organizations he leads.

Communication:

Damon’s transparent and collaborative communication style enables him to build strong relationships with physicians, staff, and community partners. His focus on fostering a patient-centered healthcare environment strengthens team cohesion and supports high-quality patient care.