David Strong, president and CEO of Orlando Health, is listening and learning as he begins his new role.

Earlier this year, Orlando Health named David Strong as its new president and chief executive officer (CEO). In April, David officially began his journey with our organization and since then, he’s been making the rounds meeting with community members, physicians, team members and donors.

“I chose to come to Orlando Health because I did my homework and I knew this is a healthcare system that has all the right ingredients for success,” says Strong. “Orlando Health has skilled physicians, a dedicated governing board, a talented staff and generous supporters.”

Strong previously served as president of Rex Healthcare, a private, not-for-profit hospital system in Raleigh, NC, for 10 years. Prior to that, he served as executive vice president at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge, LA., and then CEO of Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City, OK.

“David brings more than 20 years of experience to Orlando Health,” says John Bozard, Orlando Health Foundation president. “That experience is definitely going to keep us moving in the right direction.”

Strong recently named Jamal Hakim, MD, chief operating officer. Dr. Hakim previously served as the interim president and CEO for Orlando Health. In his new position, he will oversee the daily operational management of multiple areas within the organization.

Additionally, Strong named Bernadette M. Spong as chief financial officer. Spong currently serves as senior vice president of finance/chief financial officer of network hospitals for the University of North Carolina (UNC) Health Care system. She also holds the same position for Rex Healthcare System, one of UNC Health Care’s member systems.

“I have the utmost faith in Jamal’s and Bernadette’s abilities and commitment to serve the organization and the entire community,” says Strong. “I am extremely pleased that they have agreed to accept these roles.”

With just a few months under his belt, Strong is already taking proactive measures to ensure the continued success of Orlando Health and the health of the Central Florida community.