Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS) is seeking its next Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead operations across the community-focused healthcare system.
With more than 3,500 full-time equivalent employees, approximately $800 million in annual revenue, and total assets of $1 billion, MVHS serves the geographic area of Oneida, Herkimer, and Madison counties. Given its size, charitable mission, and role as a major employer, MVHS is an organizational pillar in Utica and the region. The health system is the second largest employer in the area and generates more than $2 billion in economic activity.
In October 2023, MVHS opened Wynn Hospital, the newest hospital in New York State. This brand new state-of-the-art integrated health campus includes a 373-bed, 702,000 square-foot facility and a 1,550-car parking structure on 25 acres in downtown Utica. This transformational project has impacted how healthcare is delivered to the communities and supported the revitalization of downtown Utica and the surrounding area. The MVHS health system also includes the Faxton outpatient campus that houses the regional cancer center, the MVHS Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, and the Visiting Nurse Association of Utica and Oneida County, Inc. The MVHS Medical Group has 43 clinics for primary and specialty care throughout the region. MVHS has more than 20,000 inpatient admissions and 825,000 outpatient visits annually.
Reporting directly to MVHS’s new CEO, Dr. Bill LeCates, the incoming COO will play a critical role in advancing operational excellence and supporting the organization’s mission of delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. The ideal candidate will bring a proven track record of elevating and optimizing operations across complex health systems, with a clear focus on initiatives that drive measurable improvements in clinical outcomes, employee engagement, and patient satisfaction. This leader will combine outstanding project management skills with big-picture, system-level thinking, underpinned by sound financial acumen and a deep understanding of healthcare operations.
The incoming COO will be responsible for shaping and executing strategies that enhance operational efficiency, streamline processes, and strengthen organizational performance across the health system. A key component of this role includes directing the planning, modernization, and optimization of hospital facilities, ensuring they are safe, efficient, and aligned with both current needs and long-term strategic goals. The COO will also bring the skills to build high-performing teams, enhancing the management capabilities and leadership effectiveness of department heads and operational leaders across the system.
In addition, the COO will work in a close triad partnership with the Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Medical Officer to drive improvements in organizational quality metrics, foster a culture of accountability and excellence, and ensure that clinical, operational, and strategic initiatives are aligned to optimize outcomes. This collaborative approach will strengthen the organization’s culture, support team engagement, and advance patient-centered care.
This position offers the opportunity to lead a high-performing team, influence system-wide initiatives, and make a lasting impact on the health system’s growth and transformation while enhancing the experience of patients, staff, and the communities MVHS serves.
The base salary range for this position is $375,000 to $425,000. In addition, this executive will be eligible for an annual incentive bonus, retirement, and additional benefits. The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be determined based on various factors, including but not limited to level of experience, education, accomplishments, internal equity, and budget.
Inquiries, nominations, and applications are invited. Please direct a resume expressing interest in the role to the WittKieffer team via the buttons below. For questions or additional information, please contact Rachel Polhemus or Wendy Kerschner via email at [email protected].